Ron Cottee was a well known figure in Wareham as he ran the produce and livestock auctions and his firm “Cottees” still trades today.
Lieutenant Cyril Quick worked in the firm of S W Cottees in Wareham who ran regular produce and livestock auctions, so he had good reason to be in regular close contact with farmers from all over the area. This meant he was perfectly placed to be in charge of the Auxiliary Units Patrols in the area.
He helped run the firm along with Ron Cottee, who was also a member of Auxiliary Units. Ron subsequently joined the Royal Navy in 1942 not returning to his firm until 1946. It is said that there was a false wall in the basement of his office, which Cyril Quick used to store supplies for the Auxiliary Units, functioning like a quartermaster for the surrounding area. When the men came to market they would collect more than just fresh produce!
Ron Cottee returned to the firm after his time in the Navy and remained a consultant, even after his retirement in 1972, while Cyril Quick took joint control of the company until he retired in 1989.
| Unit or location | Role | Posted from | until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wareham Patrol | Patrol Corporal | 20 Jun 1940 | 15 Dec 1942 |
Sidcot School, Sidcot, Winscombe.
Agricultural auctioneer
In Home Guard records 15 Dec 1942. Promoted Lance Corporal 7 Jan 1942.
WO199/3391 & Home Guard Records
1939 Register