Sir Anthony Thorold, 15th Baronet facts for kids

Sir Anthony Henry Thorold (born September 7, 1903 – died May 1, 1999) was an English officer in the Royal Navy. After his time in the navy, he became a public servant and a local politician. He was known for his service during the Second World War and later for leading the Lincolnshire County Council.

Early Life and Schooling

Anthony Thorold was born on September 7, 1903. His father was Sir James Thorold. Anthony followed in his father's footsteps, becoming the 15th Baronet in his family in 1965. He went to special schools for future naval officers: the Royal Naval College, Osborne and the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth.

A Career in Service

Naval Adventures

Anthony Thorold joined the Royal Navy in 1917 when he was just 14 years old. He steadily moved up the ranks. By 1928, he became a skilled navigating officer, guiding ships safely.

When the Second World War began in 1939, Thorold was serving with the British fleet in the Mediterranean Sea and near the UK. He was promoted to Commander in 1940. From 1941 to 1943, he worked as a Staff Officer, helping to plan operations for a powerful group of ships called Force H.

Later in the war, between 1944 and 1945, he commanded several Escort Groups. These groups protected convoys of ships, especially in the dangerous waters of the Atlantic. He was captain of the ship HMS Dacres from 1945 to early 1946.

In 1946, he was promoted to Captain. From 1949 to 1950, he was in charge of the Fishery Protection Squadron, which helped protect fishing areas. He also commanded HMS Widemouth Bay. From 1950 to 1953, he was captain of HMS Dryad. This was a special shore base where naval officers learned about navigation.

His final major role was as Commodore in Charge of Hong Kong from 1953 to 1955. He retired from the Royal Navy in 1956.

Serving the Public

After leaving the navy, Sir Anthony continued to serve his country in different ways. In 1959, he became a Deputy Lieutenant for Lincolnshire. This is a special role that helps the Lord Lieutenant, who represents the King or Queen in a county.

In 1961, he became a Justice of the Peace (JP). JPs are volunteers who deal with minor legal cases in local courts. In 1968, he was appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire for one year. This is an ancient role that supports law and order in the county.

Sir Anthony also led several volunteer groups. He was chairman of the Grantham Hospital Management Committee from 1963 to 1974. He also led the Community Council of Lincolnshire from 1974 to 1981.

Political Leadership

From 1958 to 1974, Sir Anthony was a county councillor for Kesteven. This meant he helped make decisions for the local area. From 1973 to 1981, he became the Leader of Lincolnshire County Council. In this role, he was in charge of the council's work and decisions for the entire county.

Family Life

In 1939, Anthony Thorold married Jocelyn Elaine Laura Heathcote-Smith. They had three children: one son and two daughters. His son, Anthony Oliver Thorold, later inherited his father's title. Sir Anthony Thorold passed away on May 1, 1999. He is buried in the churchyard of St Mary's Church in Syston.

Awards and Recognition

Sir Anthony Thorold received several important awards for his service:

• In 1942, he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). This award recognizes contributions to the arts, sciences, public service, or charity.
• On August 25, 1942, he was given the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC). This award is for bravery during active operations against the enemy. He received it for his courage during the capture of Diego-Suarez in Madagascar.
• On June 19, 1945, he received a bar to his Distinguished Service Cross. A bar means he received the award a second time. This was for his outstanding courage while protecting a convoy of ships going to and from North Russia. This journey was very dangerous due to enemy attacks and terrible weather.