The Earl and Countess of Annesley at Cowes, 1910
Society at Cowes - Francis Annesley, 6th Earl of Annesley, Lord Glerawly before succeeding to the title (1884-1914), son of the 5th earl and Miss Mabel Frances Markham. He married Evelyn Hester Mundy, pictured on the right. The Tatler writes that, he is a keen all-round sportsman whose efficiency is somewhat marred by a terrible accident to one of his eyes while at college though does not elaborate. Annesley served with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and later joined the Royal Naval Air Service. Prior to joining 2 (Naval) Squadron, Royal Naval Air Service at Eastchurch, he distinguished himself serving with the R.N.A.S. Armoured Car Division, with his armoured motorcar in helping to check the advance of the Germans on Brussels and in the defence of Antwerp. He was last seen alive on 6 November 1914 leaving Eastchurch, England in a Bristol T.B.8 biplane, serial 1220, flown by Flight Lieutenant C.F. Beevor, R.N.A.S. bound for France / Flanders. They were never seen again. His death was presumed on 2 December 1914 by Mr. Justice Astbury. Two German prisoners had been interrogated and it was established that the two aviators had been shot down when a German shell had hit the petrol tank of their aircraft and it had fallen in flames near Dixmude. The couple are pictured leaving the Gloster Hotel, Cowes, formerly home of the Royal Yacht Squadron
