Henry West bronze plaque

This bronze commemorative plaque records: In memory of Henry West who lost his life in a whirlwind at the Great Western Railway Station, Reading on 24th March, 1840. A rail was erected at the time by his fellow workmen as a token of their affectionate respect to his memory. Renewed by his brother George 1862, renewed by his niece F.G. Rixon 1924. Renewed by Reading Corporation 1971. Sudden the change, I in a moment fell and had not time to bid my friends farewell. Yet hushed be all complaint 'tis sweet, 'tis blest, to change Earth's stormy scenes for Endless Rest, Dear Friends prepare, take warning by my fall, so shall you hear with joy, your Saviour's call. Recorded plaque organisation: Regent Inns plc, Reading Borough Council.

Henry West was a railway worker who tragically died in an accident at the Great Western Railway Station in Reading in 1840; he is remembered for the enduring tribute erected by his colleagues and renewed over generations, highlighting the impact of industrial accidents on Victorian society.