A MEMORIAL bench has been installed at the Gorsey Lotts War Memorial in Wythall to honour Bletchley Park codebreaker and Second World War veteran Charlotte “Betty” Webb MBE, Légion d’honneur.
The ceremony started at 12pm, with family members, friends, residents, and invited guests celebrating Betty’s remarkable life and enduring legacy of service to both her country and her local community.

Betty Webb served during the Second World War as a member of the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS), contributing to vital wartime work at both Bletchley Park and later at the Pentagon.

In peacetime, she dedicated many decades of service to the local community through Wythall Parish Council, offering her time, wisdom, and commitment in support of public life.

The memorial bench was commissioned by Wythall Parish Council, with a contribution towards the bench made by Betty’s family.

The service was started by piper Andy Decomyn followed by a welcome from Councillor Dianne Taylor, Chairman of Wythall Parish Council.

Coun Taylor said: “Betty devoted herself tirelessly to public service in the local community.

“She served Wythall Parish Council for many decades with wisdom, kindness and unmovable commitment.

“Betty’s legacy lives on, not only in our nations history but also in the hearts of the community she served so faithfully.”

Colonel (Retired) Ali Brown from the Women’s Royal Army Corps told stories of her and Betty’s time together, and the lasting impact Betty had on the role of women in the Army.

Colonel (Retired) Ali Brown, from the Women’s Royal Army Corps.

She said: “ATS women paved the way, and crossed all those hurdles. They challenged the societal norms of the day, and challenged the firmly held belief that women could not and would never be a core component of fighting power.

“I had the privilege of knowing Betty for about 10 years, and I am delighted to say that what started as a professional interest soon turned into a friendship that I cherish and remember fondly.”

Sue Lichfield, Engagement Manager, Bletchley Park said she will always remember her phone calls from Betty.

Sue Lichfield, Engagement Manager, Bletchley Park

“Sometimes when the phone rings now I wish it could be her.”

Her family also paid tribute, saying how she will not only be remember for her service, but also her warmth and kindness.

Coun Taylor finished the service by remembering one of the saddest stories Betty told her.

“Unfortunately Betty’s parents knew nothing of her work during the war, as they died before the lifting of the official secrets act.

“They had no opportunity to be proud of her, well today, all of us here can say we’re proud of her.”