Griffith Hugh Roberts, Engineer Sub-Lieutenant, RNR

Born at Holyhead on 27 January 1889, he was the son of Robert and Margaret Elizabeth Roberts (nee Williams) and husband of Annie Elizabeth Roberts (nee Edwards) of 56 Newry Street, Holyhead. He was one of twins. His twin brother was John James Roberts, who served as an Engineer on HMS Scotia and later died at Liverpool in 1959.

His father was a Marine Engineer (Chief Engineer), born at Rhoscolyn, Anglesey. His mother originated from Nevin. He had a younger sister, Susannah James Roberts (b. 1891, d. 1908). In 1891 and 1901 the family lived at 56 Newry Street, Holyhead.

He served his apprenticeship at the Marine Yard, Holyhead and was later employed as a Marine Engineer for the LNWR, taking up the position of 4th Engineer on 11 March 1912. Griffith and Annie married at Holyhead on 13 September 1912. A daughter, Isabel Eva Roberts, was born at Holyhead on the 16 September 1915. She would later marry Edwin J Chard in 1940 at Holyhead.

In his will, Griffith left his wife £337.17s.6d. His family continued to receive his wages for 3 months after his death. His wife died relatively young in 1923, aged 37.

He was lost with the ship during the initial attack by submarine. He is believed to have been on duty in the Engine Room at the time.

Awarded the Mercantile Marine Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal.

Commemorated on the Portsmouth War Memorial, panel 10. He is remembered on his wife's grave at Maeshyfryd Cemetery, Holyhead and also on his parents' grave at Capel Wesla Cemetery, Rhoscolyn

Photograph of Griffith Hugh Roberts and of his Memorial Plaque by kind permission of Mrs Betty Holmes, Granddaughter.