Dorset

Lawrence enlisted in the Tank Corps in March 1923 and served at Bovington Camp as Private T. E. Shaw until he was transferred to the RAF in August 1925. It was during this time that he first rented the modest brick cottage, Clouds Hill, which he later purchased, and where he entertained many friends.

In 1935, having served twelve years in the ranks, he left the RAF and returned to live at Clouds Hill. On May 13, while returning on his motorcycle from the Post Office at Bovington Camp, he suffered severe head injuries in a road accident. He was taken to the camp’s medical centre where he lingered in a coma without regaining consciousness. He died on May 19 and is buried in the parish churchyard at Moreton.

Clouds Hill

In 1938, his younger brother A. W. Lawrence presented Clouds Hill to the National Trust.

Bovington

Bovington Camp provides training for the Royal Armoured Corps and other units.

The Accident Site

The site of Lawrence’s fatal accident is marked by a stone erected by the Society.

Moreton

Lawrence is buried in the parish churchyard in Moreton.

Wareham

This beautiful riverside Saxon walled town was a favourite haunt of Lawrence.

Other Dorset Connections

Lawrence ranged far and wide on his Brough Superior motorcycle.

Photos © Alison Jolley (Clouds Hill, memorial stones, grave stone, St Nicholas’ Church, Anglebury House, St Martin’s Church, the effigy); Alan Payne (Lawrence Trail marker, funeral bier, Arish Mell)