the war memorials of CAVENDISH CLARE POSLINGFORD STOKE BY CLARE WIXOE The STOUR VALLEY Benefice Researched, Compiled & Written By Tony Pringle A first draft, purely for information purposes and to try and get more information Villages arranged purely in alphabetical order !
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Transcript
the war memorials
of
CAVENDISH CLARE
POSLINGFORD STOKE BY CLARE
WIXOE
The STOUR VALLEY Benefice
Researched, Compiled & Written
By
Tony Pringle
A first draft, purely for information purposes and to try and get more information
Villages arranged purely in alphabetical order !
CAVENDISH POSLINGFORD
CLARE
STOKE BY CLARE WIXOE
If I should die, think only this of me;
That there's some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever England. There shall be
In that rich earth a richer dust concealed;
A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware,
Gave, once, her flowers to love, her ways to roam,
A body of England's breathing English air,
Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home.
And think, this heart, all evil shed away,
A pulse in the eternal mind, no less
Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given;
Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day;
And laughter, learnt of friends; and gentleness,
In hearts at peace, under an English heaven.
"The Soldier" Rupert Brooke 1915
in undying memory
Contents Page
CAVENDISH 1 CLARE 51 POSLINGFORD 110 STOKE BY CLARE 123 WIXOE 161 The Medals 171 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 174
Preface
With the centenary of the Great War upon us, it seemed an appropriate time to try and record as
much of the history of the men on the War Memorials as we can before more of it fades and is un-
recoverable.
Using the internet resources it has been possible to find something about most of the men. One must
be conscious of the fact that census records can only be as accurate as the facts told to the
enumerators. Back then folk were no more worried about absolute accuracy in these things than
today so please be cautious when using dates and ages. Likewise it was quite common to use
different given names to those on official records, the bane of any family researcher. The tendency
of at least one male off spring to be named after his father led to many "juniors" to be addressed by a
middle name which often found its way into official records. However I trust I have found the right
man.
The Luftwaffe managed to destroy nearly 80% of the Other Ranks service records during the Second
World War, but the surviving "burnt documents" have helped with some men, albeit some of these
remnants are singed, water has blurred the ink and the hand writing in many cases was as bad as my
own. Medals for the Great War casualties are in the main substantiated by the Medal Index Cards
which did survive almost intact and are accessible on the internet. Medals and service records for the
2nd
World War and later are however not accessible unless a search fee is paid for each man and
permission has been sought from the next of kin. In these cases I have tried to present what medals
the known service records indicate would have been awarded, but please do not rely entirely on my
assumptions.
These villages, being quite small places in the early 1900's, had fewer families than today and many
of these men can trace their relationship to others on the Memorial. By giving their Mother's maiden
name I then leave it to the reader to carry out further research along these lines. The law does not
allow for census results to be released for 100 years, so it is not possible to get much detail from
public records regarding the casualties of WW2, for that we must hope to find relatives who can
enlighten us. Too late of course for this book, but my web site www.undyingmemory.net can
always be up dated at any time.
It is my sincere hope that this humble effort of mine gives some idea of who all these men were. We
know from the history books what they endured and why. Just remember, for relatives and friends,
remembrance is not just for 2 minutes a year in November. Hopefully we will see an end to our
young people ending up as names carved into slabs of stone, but I fear that is unlikely ever to
happen. We can take small comfort in the fact that the scale of the misery of war has reduced since
the two world wars, but it is small comfort to those whose loved ones are still being maimed or
killed.
In addition to these notes, I also have html files available to form the bais of a website for each
village memorial..these I will make available to the various clerks. It is then up to each village what
they do with the information
Tony Pringle
2016
1
CAVENDISH
The Cavendish war memorial stands on the Green at the junction of Peacock's Road, Poole Street
and High Street. A budded cross on a slender stone hexagonal pillar on an hexagonal plinth bearing
6 bronze plaques, all on a three stepped hexagonal base, all in Portland stone on a paved area
surrounded by concrete posts and chain. It is around 20 feet hight in total. The dedication on the
face plaque reads
IN THANKFUL REMEMBRANCE
OF THE SACRIFICE OF CHRIST
AND OF THE MEN OF CAVENDISH
WHO LAID DOWN THEIR LIVES
FOR THEIR BRETHREN
IN THE GREAT WAR
1914-1918
2
On the other plaques are the names ( forename-initial-surname) of the fallen of the Great War
The fallen of the 1939-9145 war and of the Cyprus Emergency are inscribed in the stone of the
faces of the middle step but are barely legible and two names are actually obscured by a stone
planter being placed in front of that face. The whole memorial is now surrounded on the middle
step level by various plastic planters, the ensuing vegetation obscuring some names.
The memorial was unveiled by Colonel, Sir Courtenay Warner Bart., and dedicated by Canon
W.T.Farmilae on 19th September October 1921. Renovated and rededicated and unveiled by
General Sir Robert Gordon-Finlayson DSO on 7th November 1948 when the six names from 1939-
145 were added.
The memorial was designed by Leonard Crowfoot MSA of Newmarket and built by F.J.Lindley of
Sudbury. The unveiling ceremony was reported in the Bury Free Press of 25th September 1920
3
St. Mary's Church, Cavendish
4
ADAMS, Otto Aged 34
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission Otto Adams is buried in Mindel Trench British Cemetery, St Laurent-Blangy, grave B:45
No.80990, Gunner, Otto ADAMS 56th Siege battery, Royal Garrison Artillery Killed in Action on Monday, 23rd April 1917
Thomas Otho Adams was born in Cavendish(Sudbury Q1-1883 4A:624), son of Walter and Elizabeth
ADAMS(née BROCKWELL)
1891 census...Aged 8, he was at Lower Street, Cavendish with his father Walter ADAMS [45] carpenter
born Glemsford; his mother Elizabeth [46]; brother Willie [11]. All except his father were born in
Cavendish. His father died in 1897. His sister Kate [1866] married Thomas William GILDERSLEVE in
Cardiff in 1894
1901 census...So far not identified in this census. His widowed mother was alone at Lower Street,
Cavendish
1911 census...Aged 26, single, a hay trusser, he was in Cavendish with his widowed mother. She had born 8
children but 5 had already died. She died in 1916.
There was apparently at the time an application in hand for deferrment of military service as the Suffolk &
Essex Free Press newspaper archive carries a report on the Melfod Tribunal of March 22nd 1916 :-"Melford
Tribunal. Otto Adams a roadman from Cavendish again came up, works for Melford Rural Council,
widowed mother who depends on him for a home, the only son, adjourned till the next meeting, the applicant
said " cant you settle it one way or another, I have been here twice on the job, I don't care a button for
myself, it's my mother".
He enlisted in Glemsford on 1st February 1916, giving his age as 33 years 347 days, a roadman from Chapel
Street, Cavendish, he was 5 feet 8 inches tall, chest 37.5" to 40.5 inches. Next of kin his sister Kate Hannah
E.E., Gildersleve, of 5 Van Street, Grangetown, Cardiff. Amongst his papers is the address of A Adams, 22
Turin Street, Bethnal Green ( an uncle perhaps).
Placed in the Reserves he was mobilised at Fort
Burgh, Dover on 12th May 1915. He was
posted to the B.E.F. on 26th August 1916, to
the 5th Army pool, then to the 3rd Army pool
on 9th February 1917 before being posted to
56th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery on
24th March 1917 and being killed in action 4
weeks later. His personal belongings consisted
of Disc, personal letters, Testament, 8
halfpenny stamps and some picture postcards.
On the "Living Relatives" from his sister
entered herself as the only living full blood
relative.
5
ARGENT, George William Aged 29
George Argent is buried in Cavendish Cemetery, SW grave #607
No.13216, Private, George William ARGENT "D" Coy., 9th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Died of his Wounds on Wednesday, 9th May 1917
George William Argent was born in Cavendish(Sudbury Q2-1888 4A:694), son of Mary Ann ARGENT
1891 census...Aged 3, he was at Rambley Lane, Cavendish with his grandmother Mary Ann ARGENT [51],
her daughters Pollie [31] and Emma[23] and his sister ? Annie [7]. All were born in Cavendish and all three
adults were recorded as single. It seems likely that Polly is his mother Mary Ann, the family using "Polly" to
distinguish her from her mother.
1901 census...Aged 12, he was at Rambly Lane with his grandmother Mary Ann ARGENT [66] and her
daughter Polly [40] both women recorded as single
1911 census...Aged 22, a farm labourer, he was a Rambley Lane with his mother Mary Ann ARGENT [50],
single, born Cavendish. It is uncertain whether it is Rambley Lane or Ramally Lane
From their regimental numbers George Argent-John Ballard-John Brown-Jack Johnson-Charles Slater-
Frank Underwood and Arthur Wells, all from Cavendish, enlisted in the Suffolk Regiment the same day
He enlisted in Sudbury.
He was on the strength of the Depot at the time of his death in the military hospital at Farnham. Without his
Army service record it is impossible to say when or where he was wounded. The 9th Battalion, Suffolk
Regiment served in France
6
ARGENT, Stephen Henry Aged 24
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Stephen Argent is buried in Villers Station Cemetery, Villers-au-Bois, grave 7:D:7
No.805207, Private, Stephen Henry ARGENT
75th Battalion, Canadian Infantry Killed in Action on Thursday, 1st March 1917
Stephen Henry Argent was born in Cavendish on 11th December 1892(Sudbury Q1-1893 4A:755), son of
John and Eliza ARGENT (née SMITH)
1901 census...Aged 8, he was at Poole Street, Cavendish with his father John ARGENT [42] horseman; his
mother Eliza [43]; brothers James [18] labourer in malthouse; Alfred [15] farm yardman and Engelbert
[13];sisters Edith [10], Ellen [4] and Bessie [1]. All were born in Cavendish.
1911 census...Aged 18, unemployed, (lately butcher) he was at Poole Street with his parents (father now
smallholder); brother Engelbert [farm labourer]; sisters Edith and Bessie. His mother had borne 10 children
but 2 had died.
He married Nellie PLUMB on March 16th 1915, later of Rumburgh Lane, Spexhall, Halesworth, Suffolk.
In 1920 she was at Scarborough Avenue, Skegness. His wife's movements are not easily put in
chronological order from his Army documents.
Canadian Archives-RG 150, Accession 1992-93/166, Box 216 - 9
He enlisted in Bowmanville, Ontario on 6th January 1916. A labourer (rubber worker), born Cavendish,
England, he was married to Nellie and they lived in Bowmanville, Ontario. He was 5 feet 6.5 inches tall,
weighed 180 lbs, chest 34.25" to 37.5", grey eyes, dark hair, Church of England. His widow returned to
England and moved first to Hunstsman Road,Foxearth, Long Melford (from 9th November 1916)and then to
Rumburgh Lane, Spexhall, Halesworth, Suffolk
To 136th Overseas Battalion initially. He was in hospital at Valcartier from 19th July to 1st August 1916
with German Measles
He left Halifax on SS Corsican on 25th September, arriving Liverpool 6th October and was transferred to
39th Battalion at West Sandling and drafted to France to 75th Battalion on 14th November 1916. One of his
Army forms dated 11th August 1916 his wif'e address was changed to Cavendish, Suffolk. His mother's
address was High Street, Cavendish.
His "circumstances of death" card simply says "killed in action" in Carency sector (which is between
Villers-au-Bopis and Souchez)
7
BALLARD, John Aged 25
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
John Ballard is buried in Spoilbank Cemetery, Villers-au-Bois, grave 7:D:7
No.13202, Private, John BALLRD 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Killed in Action on Thursday, 5th August 1915
John Ballard was born in Cavendish (Sudbury Q3-1889 4A:639), son of Charles and Eliza BALLARD (née
BROWN)
CWGC have his mother as Ada, but this appears to be a typo, his Army records show Eliza as do all the
census.
1891 census...Aged 1, he was at High Street, Cavendish with his father Charles BALLARD [40] gardener's
labourer; his mother Eliza [38]; sisters Lissie [13], Ada [8] and Kate [4]; brother Harry C[6]. All were born
in Cavendish
1901 census...Aged 11, he was still at High Street, Cavendish with widowed mother Eliza; brothers Harry
(farm labourer) and William [9]; sister Edie [5]. The new siblings born in Cavendish.
1911 census...Aged 21, general labourer,he was "near the Church", Cavendish with his mother; sister Ada,
brother Harry ; niece Olive Tonkin [5] born Erith, Kent (parentage unknown).
His brother William was killed serving in Belgium in the Suffolk Regiment earlier in 1915
George Argent, John Ballard, John Brown, Jack Johnson, Charles Slater, Frank Underwood and Arthur
Wells, from their numbers, seem to have all joined the Suffolks on the same day
The battalion were having a quiet time at Spoilbank, a few kilometres south of Ypres.The war diary simply
says 13202 Pt J Ballard killed, one man wounded.
8
BALLARD, William Aged 23
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
William Ballard is commemorated on the Menin Gate, Ypres, panel 21
No.8191, Lance Corporal, William BALLRD
1st Battalion, Suffolk Regiment Killed in Action on Thursday, 18th February 1915
William Ballard was born in Cavendish (Sudbury Q4-1891 4A:709), son of Charles and Eliza BALLARD
(née BROWN)
1901 census...Aged 9, he was at High Street, Cavendish with widowed mother Eliza; brothers Harry (farm
labourer) and John; sister Edie [5] born Cavendish.
1911 census...Aged 19, He was at Gibraltar Barracks, Bury St Edmunds a private in the Suffolk Regiment.
"near the church" Cavendish were his mother; sister Ada, brother John (general labourer), brother Harry ;
niece Olive Tonkin [5] born Erith, Kent (parentage unknown).
His brother John was killed serving in Belgium in the Suffolk Regiment later in 1915
He enlisted in the Suffolk Regiment, (from his number) early in 1911.
The battalion were near Chateau Rosendal (now Bedford House Cemetery, 2.5 km from Ypres on the road
to Armentieres). They had spent the night in shallow temporary trenches, up to their waists in water. The
war diary has:-
"16th Feb - Capt. Yourdain, C Coy sent to relieve "O" trench found two thirds full of Germans, this he
reported verbally and asked for more bombs as his had all been expended (O trench had previously been
captured from the Middlesex Regt by the Germans but on our taking over they reported that it had been re
captured by the Buffs on the night of 15th/16th Feb just before we relieved them) Nothing more was heard
from C Coy. Sgt Allan who was sent out ot get touch and reconnoitre and report was killed. 2 Platoons
under Capt C.s>Wilson in support by wood on canal was ordered up to make an attack on "O" trench but
owing to day having broken it was decided that an attack would be useless owing to machine gun fire. At 11
am Capt Wood-Martin, "N" trench, reported that "O" trench had been captured at dawn by the Germans.
17th Feb- Two Coys Cheshire Regt under orders from Bde HQ endeavoured by a charge to re capture a
trench in frot of that held by D Coy, known as "P" trench but owing to strength of German position and
machine gun fire failed. The 2nd Northmberland
Fusiliers who were waiting for the attack by
Cheshire Regt to take place,to make an attack on
"O" trench to recapture it did not make the attack
18th Feb - Relieved in trenches by 2nd
Northumberland Fusiliers and marched to billets
in Kruistraat. Casualties over the 48 hours were 4
officer and 19 OR killed, 4 officers and 53 other
ranks wounded, 3 officers and 171 OR missing
CWGC records give 36 of the battalion killed in
that period, only 6 having known graves.
9
BROWN, John Felix Aged 22
photo; Pierre Vandervelden www.inmemories.com
John Brown is commemorated on the Special Memorial A:6 in Ribecourt British Cemetery
No.13212, Lance Corporal, John Felix BROWN 9th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Killed in Action on Tuesday, 20th November 1916
John Felix Brown was born Cavendish (Sudbury Q1-1894 4A:761), son of William and Elizabeth BROWN
(née NEWMAN)
His father had, in 1887, married Cavendish born Maria THOMPSON, their daughter Letitia born 3rd May,
1889 in Cavendish. Maria died in 1897.
His mother had married Samuel FINCH in 1884, he died in 1890 and she married William BROWN in 1898
1901 census...Aged 7 he was at High Street, Cavendish with his father William BROWN [39] maltster; his
step mother Elizabeth [37] born Foxearth, Essex; half brothers Bertram FINCH [15] blacksmith and Alfred
G FINCH [14] and Arthur W BROWN [1]; sister Letitia O [11]. All except his mother born in Cavendish
1911 census...Aged 17, a gardener's lad, he was at Maltings Yard, Cavendish with his parents; half brothers
Alfred George FINCH(postman), Arthur William and Robert Victor [9]; half sisters Anna Elizabeth [7] and
Edith Emma [5]. The new siblings all born in Cavendish.
George Argent, John Ballard, John Brown, Jack Johnson, Charles Slater, Frank Underwood and Arthur
Wells, from their numbers, seem to have all joined the Suffolks on the same day
He enlisted in the Suffolk Regiment, (from his number) early in 1911.
The battalion were taking part in an attack on the Hindenburg Line between Villers Plouich and Beacamp.
The war diary covers several pages, but in summary(from Lt Col Murphy's "History of the Suffolk
Regiment": -The attack started at 6:20 am on 20th November with 324 tanks and six divisions on a six mile
front. The tanks crashed through all obstacles and drove the enemy to ground. The 9th Suffolks quickly
crossed No Man's Land and reached the German front line. By 9 am they had reached their objective, were
in touch with both flank battalions and had their HQ in the original German front line. The village of
Ribecourt fell easily and "C" Coy pressed forward to Marcoing with orders to seize the cross road sin front
of the village, the bridges over the river and the village itself. When the y began to advance at 11 am they
found 2 platoons had already moved off and 2nd Lt Hopkins and his batman went ahead to try and stop
them. Reaching the cross roads they found 4 Germans who surrendered. Seeing 2nd Lt Taylor and his men
400 yards away he signalled them and they joined up. "C" Coy now advanced and entered Marcoing. A tank
appeared and some 29th Division troops were seen entering the village from the north. Job done they
marched back to Ribecourt, reaching HQ after dark having
captured a village, taking 100 prisoners and a machine gun,
for the loss of 2 casualties. At nightfall the battalion, now
held in reserves occupied the line of trenches captured by
them in the morning. Altogether they had captured 150
Germans and 3 machine guns for the loss of 50 casualties.
CWGC records give 11 killed on the 20th. Six (including
John Brown)had their graves destroyed in later fighting and
so are commemorated on the Special Memorial at Ribecourt
Cemetery.
10
BULLOCK, Victor William Aged 21
photo:Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Victor Bullock is buried in Tilloy British Cemetery, Tilloy-les-Mofflaines grave 1:E:32
Harry Maxim is buried in Albert, Bapaume Post Military Cemetery, grave 1:F:4
No.3163, Private, Harry MAXIM 1st Coy., Australian Machine Gun Corps
Killed in Action on Wednesday 19th July 1916
Harry Maxim was born in Cavendish (Sudbury Q1-1887 4A:646), son of Robert and Caroline MAXIM (née
ALEFOUNDER). There are problems here as there appear to be two Harry Maxim born in the district
around the same year and also 2 Caroline Maxim born same year. In addition various illegitimate children
used either MAXIM or ALEFOUNDER indiscriminately. The details here seems certainly to be correct,
however the William MAXIM on the memorial is more problematical.
1891 census...Aged 5, he was at Chapel Street, Cavendish with his father Robert MAXIM [49] matting
maker born Hundon; his mother Caroline [44]; half-sisters Charlotte ALEFOUNDER [25]; sisters Alice
[11], Annie [7] and Beatrice [6]; brothers John [17] matting maker, William [14] maltster, David [9] and
George [3]; widowed grandmother Eurydice CUTMORE [75]. All except his father were born in Cavendish.
1901 census...Aged 15, a butcher's boy, he was at Lower Street, Cavendish with his father; brothers George
? [32] [labourer] and George [13](mat maker). His mother was visiting Cavendish born Eliza MOON in
Lambeth.
1911 census...Aged 25 he was in Australia. His mother had died in 1910 and his father (builder's labourer)
and brother George [43] (farm labourer) were still in Cavendish.
His brother William died in Cavendish in Q1-1922
He enlisted on 8th August 1915 at Warwick Farms, New South Wale, living at Terminus Hotel, Hay, New
South Wales, giving his age as 29 years 7 months, born Cavendish, Suffolk, next of kin his father Robert of
High Street, Cavendish. He was 5 feet 7.5 inches tall, weighed 146 lbs, chest 34" to 36", blue eyes, light
brown hair, Church of England. He was a butcher and had served a 5 years apprenticeship with Samuel Hall.
As No 3163, he was posted to the 19th Battalion 18th August 1915 to 13th February 1916. It has not been
found when he left Australia, but on 14th February 1916 he was posted to the 4th Battalion From Egypt on
22nd March 19166 he left Alexandria on the HMTS Grampian, arriving in Marseilles on 28th and joining
the 1st Company of the 1st Infantry Brigade Machine Gun Corps.
The notification of his death was sent to his father at High Street Cavendish and then the address is
changed to 30 Pelham Road, Ilford which was also the address of his sister Mrs Emily Whisker.
His father received a pension of 5 shillings (25p) per fortnight and also the personal possessions of Harry
which were 2 discs, photos, letter, discharge certificates, silver brooch, silver medallion, 3 coins, penknife,
watch, 2 metal chains, 2 testaments and a wallet.
He was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. The absence (I could not find it anyway) of
the war diary means I could not say where he was killed. The 19th July was the Battle of Fromelles, the 1st
action of the Australian Imperial Force in the war, but that is nearer the Belgian border. Nearer to Albert the
1st, 2nd and 4th Australian Divisions were preparing for their attack on Pozieres on 22/23rd July.
25
MAXIM, William NOT AT ALL SURE OF THIS MAN AS YET
..or..
photo: Rodney Gibson
William Maxim is now buried in La Clytte Military Cemetery, grave 5:E:7
No.4312, Private, William MAXIM or 31901 Driver William MAXIM
or
1st Battalion, York and Lancaster Regt or 19th Bde Ammunition Col. R.F.A. Died or Killed in Action Q1-1922 or on Tuesday 26th January 1915 Aged 36 or ? Civilian details for the Artillery man have not yet been uncovered
William Maxim was born in Cavendish (Sudbury Q), son of Robert and Caroline MAXIM (née
ALEFOUNDER).
1881...Aged 4, he was in Chapel Street, Cavendish with his father Robert MAXIM [39] mat maker; his
mother Caroline [34]; sisters Charlotte [15] and Alice [1]; brothers George [12] and John [7]. All were born
in Cavendish
1891 census...Aged [14] a maltster he was at Chapel Street, Cavendish with his father Robert MAXIM [49]
matting maker (now recorded as born in Hundon); his mother Caroline [44]; sisters Charlotte [25], Alice
[11], Annie [7] and Beatrice [6]; brothers John [17] matting maker, David [9] Harry [5] and George [3];
widowed grandmother Eurydice CUTMORE [75]. All except his father were born in Cavendish.
1901 census...not identified
1911 census...not identified
His brother Harry was killed in France in the Australian Army in 1916
He enlisted in London on 3rd July 1895 in the York and Lancaster Regiment, giving his age as 18 years 8
months, a labourer from Cavendish who was a serving member of the militia. He was 5 feet 4 .75 inches tall,
weighed 116 lbs, chest 33" to 25", fair hair, blue eyes and a Wesleyan. Next of kin, father Robert MAXIM
Killed in Action on Wednesday, 10th October 1917 William John Wordley was born in Cavendish (Sudbury Q4-1890 4A:615), son of Harry and Margaret
WORDLEY (née BULLOCK).
1891 census...Aged 7 months, he was at High Street, Cavendish with his father Harry WORDLEY [28]
maltster; his mother Margaret [30]; sister 'Anne' [2]; uncles Arthur BULLOCK [25] and Willie BULLOCK
[20], both farm labourers. All were born in Cavendish
1901 census...Aged 10, he was at High Street, Cavendish with his widowed mother; sister Thirza (Annie)
and Blanche [8] born in Cavendish His father had died in 1896.
1911 census... Aged 20, a miller's assistant, he was at Cavendish with his mother and aunt Eliza BULLOCK
[42] born Cavendish
He enlisted in Cavendish. The war diary has:-
"9-10-17 .......consolidated in line near first objective from HILLSIDE FARM to RAILWAY CROSSNG.
Connected with Australian Corps on right but still out of touch on left.
09:40 Counter attack driven off 17:30 Counter attack driven off
10-10-17 Line re-organised and defensive flank formed on left as 198 Bgde had not got forward. Positions
shelled very heavily all afternoon and part of evening.
19:30 Bde relief by 44th Australian commenced. Lt.Col HIBBINS and 600 men of Brigade moved into
reserve behind SUNKEN ROAD (DARING Crossing) until 8 am."
CWGC records give 30 killed, only three of them have a known grave
Passchendaele 1917..men were expected to advance across this in full kit and under fire
43
The area of action above and below-today
44
1939-1945 war It is much harder to find the details for this war due to the 100 year rule, lack of census, no medla index cards etc. All the medal ribbons depicted can only be inspired guesswork unless relatives actually have the medals and come forward.
ANDREWS, Peter Frederick Aged 22
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission Peter Andrews is now buried in El Alamein War Cemetery, grave 22:B:22
No.2092046, Sapper, Peter Frederick ANDREWS
209 Field Company, Royal Engineers Killed in Action on Thurs/Friday, 3rd/4th September 1942
Peter Frederick Andrews was born in Cavendish (Sudbury Q1-1920 4A:2196), son of John Charles and
Alice Marie ANDREWS (née SMITH).
He was the nephew of Ethel Andrews of Cavendish. In 1939 Ethel and her husband Harry were in Peacocks
Road, Cavendish with Peter's widower father
This was about the time that the Allies halted the advance of Rommel along a line due south from the coast
west of El Elamein, when Montgomery was able to start stockpiling supplies and men ready for the 2nd
battle of El Alamein which eventually started the rout of the Afrika Korps
Originally buried in a scattered cemetery in a depression near El Mreir, (due south of El Alamein), he was
moved to El Alamein on 30th July 1943
45
BROWN, Victor George Aged 21
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Victor Brown is commemorated on the Chatham Naval Memorial 61:3
No.C/KX 112512, Stoker 1st, Victor George BROWN HMS Niger, Royal Navy
Killed in Action on Monday, 6th July 1942
Very likely to be Victor George Brown was born in Cavendish (Sudbury Q2-1921 4A:1718), son of Robert
Victor and Gertrude L BROWN (née THEOBALD).
In 1939 his parents were at High Street, Cavendish father [9-4-1901] a bricklayer, mother [10-9-1901] and
his brother Felix J [27-11-1923] a cinema attendant.
HMS Niger was a Halcyon-class minesweeper of the Royal Navy. She was launched in 1936.
In fog on 5 July 1942 HMS Niger mistook an iceberg for Iceland's North Western Cape and led six
merchant ships of Murmansk to Reykjavik convoy QP 13 into Northern Barrage minefield at the entrance to
the Denmark Strait. Every ship detonated British mines. There were only eight survivors of the 127 men
aboard Niger.
She took with her the commanding officer, Commander Cubison, 80 officers and crew, and 39 passengers,
survivors from HMS Edinburgh being ferried home from Russia.
46
FRENCH, Reginald Charles Aged 28
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Reginald French is commemorated on the Chatham Naval Memorial 54:1
No.C/JX 151660, Able Seaman, Reginald Charles FRENCH HMS Veteran, Royal Navy
Killed in Action on Saturday, 26th September 1942
Very likely to be
Reginald Charles French was born in Cavendish (Sudbury Q3-1920 4A:1861), son of Charles William and
Ethel Annie FRENCH (née WELLS). Confusion here as that marriage cannot be found, only Charles W
FRENCH to Ethel A PLUMB in 1919 (Sudbury 4a:2397)
With the capband for |Ganges, it appear he was a boy entrant, training at HMS Ganges, Shotley at some time
HMS Veteran was an Admiralty modified W-class destroyer built for the Royal Navy.Commissioned 13th
November 1919.Pennant No was D-72 until 1920 and then I-72
She was stationed off the east coast of USA on convoy defence between US and Canada to Newfoundland.
Nominated for a special convoy RB1, she sailed with HMS Vanoc on the 16th September 1942.
On 23 September 1942, Convoy RB1 was sighted by U-380 and U-boat Group Blitz was ordered to attack.
Groups Vorwarts and Pfiel were also directed against RB1. On the 25th the SS Boston and SS New York
were sunk and the convoy scattered. On 26 September the convoy was ordered to reform and HMS Veteran
came across the survivors of the SS New York. While she was picking up some of the survivors HMS
Veteran was hit by two torpedoes from U-404. HMS Veteran sank quickly in position 54.51N 23.04W south
of Iceland after an explosion. All hands, as well as a number of survivors from the SS New York were lost.
Other survivors from SS New York were later rescued.
U-404 was sunk in the Atlantic in July 1943 by two USAF Liberator aircraft and an RAF Liberator from
224 Squadron. None of the submarine crew survived.
College, co.Suffolk, where he took several distinctions; was subsequently employed in the Bank with Messrs
Cook and Sons, Ludgate Circus, London E.C.; enlisted 9 Sept. 1914; served with the Expeditionary Force in
France and Flanders from 25May 1917, being attached to the 8th Battn.East Surrey Regt, as First Class
Signaller, and was killed in action near Passchendaele 12 Oct. following, while laying a wire under heavy
fire. Buried near Gloucester Farm, between Passchendaele Ridge and the Poelcappelle Road. His
Commanding Officer wrote: "He was a fine lad, and had he lived, would have been recommended for a
decoration for bravery". umm.
The 8th battalion of the East Surreys was in action just SE of Poelcappelle. They lost 89 killed that day.
Their guides got them lost at the start, no time was available for company commanders to consult after last
minute alterations to plans, NCO never even got to see a map, the weather was very wet and our barrage
was too light, hardly affecting the enemy machine gunners.
65
66
BYFORD, Walter Aged 33
Walter Byford is commemorated on the Thiepval memorial, pier/face 9A/9B/10B
No 27223, Private, Walter BYFORD
2nd Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment formerly 1328, Suffolk Regiment
Killed in Action on Sunday, 14th January 1917
Believed to be the civilian below, but another Walter Byford was born in Clare 5 years later.
Walter Byford was born in Clare (Risbridge Q3-1883 4A:548), baptised in Clare on 16th March 1884, son
of Charles and Hannah BYFORD(née IVES).
1891 census...Aged 8, he was at Common Street, Clare with his father Charles BYFORD [40] labourer born
Ovington; his mother Hannah [43]; brother Albert [16] labourer; sister Dolly [14]. All except his father were
born in Clare.
1901 census...Aged 17, bricklayer's labourer, he was still at Common Street, Clare, with his parents.
He married Emily ALLEN in 1905.
1911 census...Aged 27, a road man, he was at Chilton Street, Clare with his wife Emily [26] born Hundon
and their son Charles William [5] born Clare.(Risbridge Q4-1905 4A:875). One other child had died.
He enlisted in Clare.
According to the war diary the battalion was holding MUNICH TRENCH (near Beaumont-Hamel),which
had been captured by 7th Division on the 11th January, and had 1 OR killed and 1 wounded.
67
CAMPBELL, Colin Archibald Heron [MiD] Aged 37
photo: Roy Beardsworth
Colin Campbell is buried in Ypres Reservoir Cemetery, grave 1:F:15
Major, Colin Archibald Heron CAMPBELL [MiD]
296th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery formerly Royal Garrison Artillery
Killed in Action on Saturday, 29th September 1917
Queen's South Africa medal- clasps for Cape Colony-Transvaal-Laings Nek King's South Africa medal - clasps for South Africa 1901-South Africa 1902
Colin Archibald Heron Campbell was born in Portsmouth (Portsea Island Q2-1880 2B:505) on 27th March
1880, son of Lt.Col. Donald Archibald and Charlotte CAMPBELL(née ROBERTS).
1881 census...Aged 1, he was at Holme Slack House, Fishwick, Preston with his father Donald A
CAMPBELL [30] Captain 108th Foot, born East Indies and his mother Charlotte [27] born Norwich.
1891 census...Aged 11, he was at The Village, Stonham Aspal with his father Donald A CAMPBELL [40]
(Lt Colonel, Infantry, born East Indies; his mother Charlotte [35]born Norwich; sisters Augusta C.L. [9]
born Ireland and Victoria D.C. [4] born Padiham, Lancashire; brother Duncan D H [7] born Camberley,
Surrey
1901 census...Aged 21, he was in South Africa in the Royal Garrison Artillery. As 2nd Lieutenant, he left
Tilbury on 28 Apr 1900 on the Orotavia, and returned from Durban on the Nubia on August 5th 1902.
1911 census...Aged 31, single a Captain, Royal Artillery, he was boarding at 8 Nightingale Place, Woolwich
with John and Martha PECK (invalid Army pensioner and his boarding house wife)
At probate his will has his address as Gothic House, Clare,Suffolk. From the medal index card is appears his
father, by 1923, had moved to Wickham Hall, Eye.
His brother Duncan was killed serving in France with the Royal Field Artillery in 1917.
68
On the family memorial plaque above (Ipswich, Holy Trinity) is inscribed, on the left hand panel:-
COLIN ARCHIBALD HERON CAMPBELL
BORN 27-3-80,"KILLED IN ACTION" AT YPRES 29 SEPT.1917 (ST.MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS)
LIES IN YPRES RESERVOIR NORTH CEMETERY
PASSED FROM WOOLWICH TO ROYAL ARTILLERY, DEC.1899
SERVED
BOER WAR 1900-1902. 2 MEDALS AND 5 CLASPS
1908, FOUR YEARS ADJUTANT, ORDNANCE COLLEGE, WOOLWICH
1912-1914, ASST DISTRICT COMMISSIONER UGANDA, RECALLED OCT.1914 FOR
WORLD WAR
COMMANDED AS CAPTAIN AND MAJOR, BATTERIES B 50 AND C 296 R.F.A.
ALSO, FOR 6 MONTHS AS TEMPORARY LT.COLONEL, 45 BRIGADE R.F.A.
"DEEPEST SYMPATHY WITH YOU IN LOSS OF YOUR GALLANT SON"
RT.HON. E.G.GVTHE EARL OF DERBY, KG GCVO CH SEC OF STATE FOR WAR
"HE PARTICULARLY DISTINGUISHED HIMESLF BY HIS UNTIRING DEVOTION TO DUTY AND
HIS ABSOLUTE FEARLESSNESS"
B.H.SHAW-STEWART LT.COL 296 BRIG. R.F.A.
"HAS ENDEARED HIMSELF TO ALL BY HIS KINDNESS AND CONSIDERATION FOR THOS
EUNDER HIS COMMAND. HAS SHOWN
THE GREATEST GALLANTRY IN CONTROLLING HIS BATTERY UNDER HEAVY SHELL FIRE"
J.W.STIRLING BRIG-GENERAL C.R.A. LIV DIV
"HAS BEEN REOMMENDED FOR D.S.O.....HIS MEN WORSHIPPED HIM"
J.P.WILLIAMS LT.COL. 296 R.F.A.
"I ABSOLUTELY NEVER KNEW A FINER MAN AND BETTER COMRADE. WORKED ON SOMME
DAY AND NIGHT UNDER MOST DIFFICULT CONDITIONS
AND DANGERS" A.R.KENWORTHY, CAPTAIN B 50 R.F.A.
"AT LOOS BY NIGHT UNDER FIRE, BROUGHT IN GERMAN HEAVY CANNON FROM FOSSE 8"
"WHEN WOUNDED 22 JULY HE REMAINED IN CONTROL OF HIS BATTERY UNDER HEAVY
ACCURATE H.E.SHELL FIRE AND
HELPED TO DIG OUT A MAN BURIED IN A DEEP TRENCH"
THE FIRST MAN OF LIXTH DIVISION TO BE RECOMMENDED FOR A DECORATION
The centre panel details his father and family ancestry, the right hand panel is for his brother Duncan
(detailed on his own page on this site).
69
His Boer War medal records
The emblem mentioned on the card is the emblem for his Mentioned in Despatches in 1915
70
CAMPBELL, Duncan Donald Heron M.C. MiD Aged 33
Duncan Campbell is buried in St. Quentin Cabaret Military Cemetery, grave 2:J:15
Major, Duncan Donald Heron CAMPBELL M.C.[MiD]
112th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery Killed in Action on Thursday, 7th June 1917
Military Cross and India General Service medal 1908
Duncan Donald Heron Campbell was born in Camberley in 4th January 1884 (Farnham Q1-1884 2A:98),
baptised St Michael's Camberley on 7th March 1884, son of Lt.Col. Donald Archibald and Charlotte
CAMPBELL(née ROBERTS).
1891 census...Aged 7, he was at The Village, Stonham Aspal with his father Donald A CAMPBELL [40]
(Lt Colonel, Infantry, born East Indies; his mother Charlotte [35]born Norwich; sisters Augusta C.L. [9]
born Ireland and Victoria D.C. [4] born Padiham, Lancashire; brother Colin A H [11] born Portsmouth .
Educated Cheltenham College and commemorated there.
1901 census...Aged 17, he was at Woolwich, a gentleman cadet in the Royal Artillery.
1911 census...Aged 27, single a Lieutenant in the Royal Artillery, he was stationed in India but was absent
from there for the census, being in England at Gothic House, Clare with his parents
At probate his will has his address as Gothic House, Clare,Suffolk. From the medal index card is appears his
father, by 1923, had moved to Wickham Hall, Eye.
His brother Colin was killed serving in Belgium with the Royal Field Artillery in 1917.
71
On the family memorial plaque above (Ipswich, Holy Trinity) is inscribed, on the right hand panel:-
DUNCAN DONALD HERON CAMPBELL
BORN 4.1.'84."KILLED IN ACTION" AT MESSINES 7 JUNE 1917.(CORPUS CHRISTI.)
LIES IN ST QUENTIN CABARET MILITARY CEMETERY, WULVERGHAM.
PASSED FROM WOOLWICH TO ROYAL ARTILLERY DEC.1900
SERVED
MOHMAND CAMPAIGN 1908, N.W.FRONTIER INDIA, MOUNTAIN ARTILLERY MEDAL
1914 BURMA MILITARY POLICE; INSPECTOR B.M.P. ARTILLERY.(RECEIVED THANKS
OF BURMA GOVT FOR A FORCED MARCH WITH 40 SOWARS.)
WORLD WAR
COMMANDED AS CAPTAIN AND MAJOR FOR 2 1/2 YEARS, BATTERY a.112 R.F.A.
(MILITARY CROSS FROM KING 7 JUNE 1916 "MENTION IN DESPATCHES FOR THE SOMME
2.1.1917
THE FIRST MAN OF THE XXVTH DIVISION TO BE GIVEN A DECORATION
"HE WENT FORWARD WITH THE INFANTRY ATTACK AT MESSINES...HAD HE SURVIVED HE
WOULD HAVE BEEN
AWARDED D.S.O. FOR WORK OF PREPARATION FOR THE ADVANCE"
"HE HAD MORE INFLUENCE IN OUR BRIGADE THAN ANY OFFICER EVER HAD, OR WILL
HAVE. HIS NOBILITY OF
CHARACTER AND STERLING SENSE OF DUTY APPEALED TO OFFICERS AND MEN. HOW
THEY MISS HIM: YET
CAMPBELL'S SPIRIT WILL ALWAYS REMAIN WITH US"
W.I.MACKAY, MAJOR B 112 R.F.A.
"WE LOVED HIM, WE ADMIRED HIM. HE WAS REALLY SPLENDID"
H.WILLIS, CAPT R.A.M.C.
"HE WAS DELIGHTED THAT HIS BATTERY HAD BEEN THE ONE SELECTED TO ADVANCE
FIRST OUT OF ALL THE CONCENTRATED
DIVISION ARTILLERIES ON OUR DIVISION FRONT, AND WENT OFF AS HAPPY AS A KING TO
RECONNOITRE MESSINES RIDGE"
A.B.FOREMAN, LT.COL. 112th BRIGADE R.F.C.
"HE WAS ONE OF THE FINEST AND BRAVEST SOLDIERS...I THOUGHT SO MUCH OF HIM I
WOULD GLADLY HAVE
FOLLOWED HIM TO HIS DEATH" E.HOWES D.C.M. BATTY SERGT MAJOR 112th BDE R.F.A.
ON 7 JUNE THIS SERGT MAJOR WATCHED HIM CARRY HIS WOUNDED ORDERLY TO SAFETY
THROGH AN
8TH GERMAN BARRAGE, IN RETURNING THROUGH IT TO THE RIDGE HE WAS KILLED.
The centre panel details his father and family ancestry, the LEFT hand panel is for his brother Colin
(detailed on his own page on this site).
72
His Military Cross was gazetted 15th March 1916. The citation reads:
Captain Duncan Donald Heron Campbell, Royal Garrison Artillery (attached 112th Brigade, Royal Field
Artillery).
"For conspicuous gallantry when directing the fire of his battery. After hos observation post had been
destroyed and the infantry near him had withdrawn, he remained for four hours exposed to heavy fire, and
successfully cut a wide lane in the enemy's wire."
The emblem mentioned on the card is the emblem for his Mentioned in Despatches in 1915
The note about the M.M.is an error, as he won the Military Cross
73
DARE, Joseph John Aged 28
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Joseph Dare is buried in Villers Station Cemetery, Villers-au-Bois grave 4:A:2
No 21277, Private, Joseph John DARE
13th Battalion, Duke of Cambridgeshire's Own (Middlesex Regiment) Killed in Action on Saturday, 30th September 1916
Joseph John Dare was born in Clare (Risbridge Q3-1888 4A:623), baptised in Clare on 16th September
1888, son of Joseph and Tamar DARE (née LEWIS). His father died in 1890 aged 53.
1891 census...Aged 2, he was at Common Street, Clare with his widowed mother Tamar DARE [39]; sisters
Emma LEWIS [14], Hannah [12], Ellen [10], Sarah [7] and Kate [4]. All were born in Clare
1901 census...Aged 12, he was at Bridewell Street, Clare with his mother and sister Sarah.
1911 census...Aged 22, an Ostler, he was still in Bridewell Street, Clare with his mother.
In 1913 he was a piano factory porter and married Willesden born Dorothy Mary Ann HICKEY [1892]
(Edmonton Q4-1913 3A:1210), later of 34 Hiley Road, Kensal Rise, London. They had two sons, Albert J
[1914-1982] and William Bruce [1915-2008]
He enlisted in Tottenham.
The battalion war diary has them in the trenches just on the east side of Souchez, with billets in Bruay. They
had a peaceful time since there were just 3 other ranks killed and 15 wounded in the whole month. Much of
the time it seems spent in training and the soldier's "favourite", inspections.
74
DEARSLEY, James Aged ?
James Dearsley is commemorated on the Helles memorial, Turkey panels 46/47
No 1343, Lance Corporal, James DEARSLEY
5th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment Died on Saturday, 21st August 1915
James Dearsley was born in Northfleet, Kent according to "Soldiers Died". A mystery man since his birth
registration has not been found, nor any trace in any census. Ages in these records are notoriously inaccurate
and illegitimate children could be entered under a variety of surnames. However until a relative comes up
with more information, this is another brick wall. His "Soldier's Personal Effects entry gives his father as
George.
1901 census...Possibly his brother Thomas DEARSLEY [3] was at Common Street, Clare. Recorded as
born Northfleet and grandmother widow Elizabeth HICKFORD (née MARTIN)
1911 census...Possibly his brother Thomas DEARSLEY [13] was at Common Street, Clare. Recorded as
born Northfleet and grandmother widow Elizabeth HICKFORD (née MARTIN)
He enlisted in Clare. His number suggests enlistment in around 1911/1912. He also must have enlisted the
same time and died on the same day as Harry Martin
The History of the Suffolk Regiment by Lt Col Murphy gives the impression that it was a quiet spell in
Reserve with some sniping and shell fire, but the CWGC records have 53 men dying that day, only one has a
known grave. In that theatre of war, disease was as likely to kill as enemy action and James' record shows
'died' rather than 'killed in action'
His medal index card has not been found, but he obviously qualified for "Pip, Squeak and Wilfred".
There can be some confusion here as Thomas Riding of the Suffolk Regiment is also recorded with
No.1343. Apparently the 4th, 5th and 6th battalions each had their own numbering system, starting at 1 in
1908 until 1917 when they all went on to the 6 digit numbers.
75
DYSON, Frederick Aged 33
photo:Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Frederick Dyson is buried in Bancourt British Cemetery, grave 9:L:10
No 19337, Private, Frederick DYSON
1st Battalion, Essex Regiment Killed in Action on Thursday, 12th October 1916
Frederick Dyson was born in Clare (Risbridge Q4-1882 4A:660), son of George and Caroline DYSON (née
BRUTY).
1891 census...Aged 8, he was at Nethergate Street,Clare with his father George DYSON [53] hay cutter; his
mother Caroline [51] born Bocking; brothers Edmund [21] (hay cutter), Charles [19] (Post Office letter
carrier), John [17] (butcher's labourer)and George [10]; sister Kate [14]. All except his mother were born in
Clare.
1901 census...Aged 19, a chemist's porter, he was at Nethergate Street, Clare with his parents (mother now
recorded as born Cavendish); brothers Goerge (haycutter) and sister Kate (laundress).
He married Fanny Elizabeth CLARKE in 1909 in Clare.
1911 census...Aged 28, a groom.gardener, he was at Nethergate Street Clare with his wife Fanny Elizabeth
[28] born Stoke by Clare and their daughter Ella Elizabeth [1] born Clare. His parents and sister Kate were
still in Nethergate Street. His mother had lost 2 of her 11 children and she died in 1915
He enlisted in Southend-on-Sea when resident in Leigh-on-Sea. So far it is not known when he moved to
Leigh-on-Sea.He had fought in the Gallipoli campaign.
The battalion war diary 12th Oct 1916:-
" 2 am on 12th inst W and X Coys in firing line in front of Gueudecourt, Y and Z Coys in support in
SUNKEN ROAD. Two front line companies fighting.1 company was in light order? Two support companies
consolidating x-x? Zero was at 2:05 pm. W and X companies at zero advanced behind our barrage and took
1st objective followed by Y and Z Coys. On gaining 1st objective, half Z Coy under Lt Eastwood reinforced
X Coy. Remainder of Y and Z Coys swung left handed as first objective there had not been gained by 7th
Suffolk Regiment. They came under heavy shell fire and machine gun fire and endeavoured to dig in shell
holes. The attack here was held up and these Coys x--x? until 5:30 pm when they retired and reorganised in
our original front line. Meanwhile W and X companies dealt with the Germans in dugouts and first
objective, killing about 300 and capturing 60 Germans. They then advanced from 1st to 2nd objective and at
about half way came under heavy machine gun and rifle fire from front and flanks. At about that point 15
Germans appeared from a dug out and showed signs of surrendering. One German however jumped on Lt
Eastwood who shot him with his revolver.Lt Carolin then came up and shot him also, the remainder of the
Germans were then killed. Both Company commanders Capt Foster and Lt Carolin then found they had no
troops on either flank and so were unable to advance. These two companies then gradually retired in waves
to 1st objective and then back to original front line where they reorganised"
CWGC Records show 87 were killed, of which 65 have no known grave and are named on the Thiepval
Memorial.
76
Frederick was found at 57c.N.21.a.21(? no 6th digit), north of Gueudecourt, identified by a cross on his
grave but wrongly attributed to 3rd Battalion, Essex. He was transferred to Bancourt in 1919
He was initially buried in this area
77
DYSON, William Charles Aged 19
photo:Rodney Gibson
William Dyson is buried in Duisans British Cemetery, Etrun grave 2:P:20
No 153633, Gunner, William Charles DYSON
"F" Battery, 14th Brigade, Royal Horse Artillery Died of his Wounds on Thursday, 22nd April 1917
William Charles Dyson was born in Clare on 23rd July 1897 (Risbridge Q3-1897 4A:775), baptised in Clare
St Peter and St Paul on 3rd October 1897, son of Harry and Elizabeth DYSON (née RICHARDSON ?).
He was admitted to Clare Council School on 19th September 1900, transferred to the Mixed school on
29/2/1904
1901 census...Aged 3, he was at The Lion Inn, Bridewell Street, Clare with his father Harry DYSON [31]
innkeeper;his mother Elizabeth [30] and sister Ada [1]. All were born in Clare.
1911 census...Aged 13, he was still at The Lion, with his parents and sister Ada.
He enlisted in Sudbury.
He died at No.8 Casualty Clearing Station at Duisans. Dying of his wounds and also in the Artillery, without
his service records it is impossible to say where and when exactly he was wounded.
78
FRENCH, Herbert Aged 33
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Herbert French is buried in Duhallows Advanced Dressing Station Cemetery, Ypres grave 1:D:34
No 202895,Private, Herbert FRENCH
1st/4th Battalion, Princess Charlotte of Wales' (Royal Berkshire Regiment) Died of his Wounds on Tuesday, 9th October 1917
Herbert French was born in Poslingford (Risbridge Q3-1884 4A:604) son of George and Ellen FRENCH
(née BRETT).
1891 census...Aged 6, he was at Gosling Green, Poslingford with his father George FRENCH [29] farm
labourer; his mother Ellen [28]; sister Edith [5] and brother Arthur [2]. All were born in Poslingford
1901 census...Aged 16, (recorded now as born in Stansfield) farm labourer, he was at The Hall, Boxted with
his parents (father now recorded as born Denston, mother at Stansfield); sister Edith and brother Arthur now
recorded as born in Stanfield; borthers Charles W [7] and Alfred [4] both born Foxearth, Essex; sister Ada
[18 months] born Boxted.
He married Bessie JEFFERIES (née BRUTY) in 1909, (she had married Willie JEFFERIES in 1906, who
died in 1907 aged 22), later to marry Frederick LEVITT in 1919 and live at Oak Cottage, Snow Hill, Clare
1911 census...Aged 26 a farm labourer, he was in Poslingford with his wife Bessie [27] born Clare; their son
Ernest George [1] born Poslingford; stepson Walter Charles BRUTY [6] born Clare and stepson Joseph
William Jefferies [3] born Clare.
He enlisted in Bury St Edmunds.
He died of his wounds in an aid station so it is not possible to say where or when he was wounded. His
battalion had been in trenches in the area between Ypres and Langemarck in the early days of October 1917
79
GHYN, William Charles Aged 32
photo: Rodney Gibson
William Ghyn is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, panel 88/89/90 and 162
No 26628, Private, William Charles GHYN 14th Battalion, Hampshire Regiment formerly No.26443, Suffolk Regiment
Killed in Action on Wednesday, 26th September 1917
Charles William Ginn was born in Clare (Risbridge Q4-1884 4A:6i2) son of Richard Charles and Sarah
GHYN (née ). His surname varies from Ginn, Ghyn, Ghynn and his Christian names are sometime reversed.
Sarah HAMMOND married Alfred GINN in 1880 (Risbridge Q4) The Richard Charles GHYN recorded by
CWGC was due to the fact that his father was variously recorded as Alfred, Richard, Charles or Dick. The
confusion can get worse as Bertie's birth certificate gives father as Alfred Ghyn and mother as Sarah
Hammond
1891 census...Aged 6, Charles W was at Cavendish Road Clare with his father Alfred GHYNN [34] groom
born Belchamp St Paul; his mother Sarah [38] born Belchamp St Paul; half-sisters Annie HAMMOND [14]
born Belchamp St Paul, and Maud HAMMOND [4] born Clare; sisters Rose GYNN [4] and Alice GYNN
[1] both born in Clare. A brother, Bertie, was born in 1892.
His mother died in 1898, his father died in 1902
1901 census...Aged 16 , he was a stockman on farm, boarding with the ELMER family at Colts Hall,
Cavendish.
1911 census...Not found in this census.His legatees were his aunt Miss Phoebe HAMMOND, sisters Mrs
Alice PEARCE and Mrs Rose CHIPPINGTON
He enlisted in Bury St Edmunds. The battalion were at Shrewsbury Forest in the area between Zillebeke
and Geluhvelt, in front of the 11th R Sussex. The war diary has :-
"26th - Battn attacked at 5:50 am. 1st objective
being TOWER HAMLETS and 2nd objective being
TOWER TRENCH. Heavy casualties through M.G.
fire Objectives were reached and held and
consolidation carried out on our side TOWER
TRENCH.
Casualties Major Goldsmith died of wounds, killed
Capt TR Nicholls, Lieut Bainbridge, 2nd Lt BA
Wilson, wounded 2 Lieut H Sangster, 2/Lt RN Butt,
2nd/Lt Burras, 2nd/Lt Thomas. Other ranks 41
killed, 113 wounded 30 missing. Heavy shelling
and sniping by enemy all day".
CWGC records show 56 killed, only three of them with a known grave.
80
INCE, Freddy Aged 30
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Fred Ince is commemorated on the special memorial in Neuville St Vaast Canadian No 2 Cemetery
No 252675, Private, Fred INCE
102nd Battalion, Canadian Infantry Killed in Action on Monday, 9th April 1917
Freddy Ince was born on 3rd January 1887 in Clare (Risbridge Q1-1887 4A:642) baptised in Clare, St Peter
and St Paul on 3rd April 1887, son of Alfred and Emma INCE. Their marriage registration and thus her
maiden name have not been found. The only Alfred Ince marriage possibly is June 1884 Halstead to Emily
ELLIS.
1891 census...Aged 4, he was at Cavendish Lane, Clare with his father Alfred INCE [41] groom/gardener;
his mother Emma [40] born Belchamp; brothers Herbert [10], William [8] and Bertie [6]; sister Florence [2].
All except his mother were born in Clare. There were two other siblings, Harry [1879] and Fanny [1875] ( it
seems his father was probably also born in Belchamp)
1901 census...Aged 14, errand boy at mill, he was in Station Road with his parents (mother now recorded as
born in Clare); brothers Herbert (carpenter), Bertie (coach painter) and Ernest [8] born Clare; sister
Florence.
1911 census...Not found in this census, possibly left for Canada. Alison Krohn has written that he worked as
a carpenter on the railway at Moosejaw, Saskatchewan. His parents, sister Florence and brother Ernest
(apprentice printer) were still at Station Road, Clare. One of the 9 children had died.
He lived in and enlisted in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan, Canada on 1st April 1916. He gave his date of birth
as 3/1/1887, a farmer, son of Alfred INCE of Clare, England. He was 5 feet 8.5 inches tall, weighed 155 lbs,
chest 34" to 37", blue eyes, light brown hair,Church of England.
As No 252675 he was placed in the 209th Battalion. Embarked on 1st November 1916, arriving in
England on 11th November. From Shornecliffe he was posted to the 102nd Battalion and sent to France on
6th December 1916. He was killed in
action at Vimy Ridge, buried at
44a.S.22.a.8.3., 0.75 miles south of
Givenchy en Gohelle. This grave was
lost, hence the special memorial at
Neuville St Vaast, Canadian Cemetery
No.2
CWGC records show the battalion had
119 killed that day.
Fred buried about here
81
INCE, John Colin Aged 25
John Ince is commemorated on the Arras memorial, Faubourg d'Amiens, bay 8
No 245413, Sergeant, John Colin INCE 20th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry formerly No.240109, Suffolk Regiment
Killed in Action on Saturday, 23rd March 1918
John Colin Ince was born on 14th September 1892 in Clare (Risbridge Q4-1882 4A:647) son of Alfred
George and Elizabeth INCE (née HOUSDEN?).
Admitted to Clare Council School (living at Cavendish Lane) on 1st March 1899 and left to go to work on
16th June 1905.
1901 census...Aged 8, he was at Maltings Lane,Clare with his father Alfred INCE [30] journeyman
bricklayer born Battersea; his mother Elizabeth [32] born Horseheath; sisters Alice [5] and Agnes [7
months]; brother William [3]. All the children were born in Clare.
1911 census...Aged 18, a bricklayer, he was at High Street, Clare with his parents; brothers Willie Charles
(errand boy) and Alfred [5]; sisters Agnes, Lily []8] and Emma Matilda [2]. The new siblings all born in
Clare, all 7 siblings survive.
He married Priscilla TWITCHETT in 1913. Their daughter Valerie D INCE was born on 15th September
1913
He enlisted in Clare. The battalion were to the rear of Vaulx-Vraucourt. The war diary has:-
" 23rd- About 8 am the enemy launched an attack against the right companies of the battalion which was
successfully resisted by rifle and machine gun fire. The attack was made by ? waves and was well carried
on, but it did not penetrate our wire. The attack was repeated at intervals during the day, but each attack
was withheld. Casualties: Officers
killed Capt Iveson, 2/Lt Kay, wounded
2/Lt Turnbull. Other ranks, killed 18,
wounded 60, missing 5
CWGC records show the battalion had
22 killed that day.
82
INCE, William Aged 37
No Z/9588, Ordinary Seaman, William INCE
R.N. Depot(Crystal Palace), R.N.V.R. Died of Illness on Friday, 11th October 1918
William Ince was born in Clare (Risbridge Q1-1881 4A:542) son of Harry George and Emma INCE (née
BRAYBROOK). Naval records give his date of birth as 9th January 1883 (the year certainly does not match
all other records).
1881 census...Aged 3 months, he was at High Street, Clare with his father Harry G [25] clothier born Clare;
his mother Emma [27] born Cavendish; widowed grandmother Mary A Ince [52]; aunts Katie INCE [15]
and Jannie INCE [10] both born in Clare; cousin Alphaeus ALLEN [15] gardener's apprentice born
Glemsford.
1891 census...Aged 10, he was at High Street, Clare with his parents; brothers John [7]and Harold [3];
sisters Annie[8], Ethel [6], Ella [4] and Katie [1]. The new siblings all born in Clare.
1901 census...Aged 20 a tailor's cutter, he was at High Street, Clare with his parents; brother Harold; sisters
Ella and Katie. He married Mabel Nettie PASK in 1904. Around the time of his death they were at Govan
House, Manning Road, Felixstowe.
1911 census...Aged 30, a tailor's cutter, he was at High Street, Clare with his wife Mabel Nettie [37] born
Bury St Edmunds and his 3rd cousin Arthur Charles Smith [6]. He inherited his father's share of the family
tailoring business on the death of his father in 1912.
The fact that he only has the War Medal indicates that he never entered a theatre of war. Apart from the
medal sheet and graves roll, no other RN records have yet been found.
William Ince is buried in Clare cemetery, grave 877
83
JARVIS, Bertie Aged 22
photo; Pierre Vandervelden www.inmemories.com
Bertie Jarvis is buried in Pont-D'Achelles Military Cemetery, Nieppe, grave 1:D:5
No 85965, Gunner, Bertie JARVIS 6th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery
Killed in Action on Saturday, 23rd June 1917
Bertie Jarvis was born in Clare on 21st January 1895 (Risbridge Q1-1895 4A:542) son of Walter and Mary
Ann JARVIS (née TAYLOR).
Admitted to Clare Council School (Infants) on 22nd March 1898, transferred to main school 1st March
1902, leaving to work on 24th January 1908
1901 census...Aged 6, he was at Snow Hill, Clare with his father Walter JARVIS [40] farm labourer; his
mother Mary Ann [39]; brothers William [8] and Sidney [3 months]. All were born in Clare.
1911 census...Aged 16, farm labourer, he was at Snow Hill, Clare with his parents and brother William
(farm labourer). Bertie and William were the only survivors of Mary's 6 children.
He enlisted in Clare on 11th December 1915. He was placed on Reserves and mobilised at Dover on 25th
May 1916. He was a horse keeper, from Snow Hill, Clare, father Walter JARVIS. He gave his age as 20
years 11 months, was 5 feet 9.75 inches tall, chest 34.5" to 36"
Posted to 6th Siege battery in France on 8th July 1916, he was killed in action on 23rd June 1917 and
buried at Pont D'Achelles, 2 miles SE of Steenwerke. His parents received his personal belongings of letters,
photos, disc, note book and religious book. Completing the "Living Relatives" form on 24th April 1919, is
father noted parents and brother William at Snow Hill, Clare
Finding the whereabouts of any artillery unit is difficult and so far the location of 6th Siege battery at the
time has not been found but presumably not far from Pont D'Achelles
84
LEVELL, Alfred Aged 32
photo; Pierre Vandervelden www.inmemories.com
Alfred Levell is buried in Highland Cemetery, Le Cateau, grave 3:E:5
No C/3835, Rifleman, Alfred LEVELL 4th Battalion, King's Royal Rifle Corps
Killed in Action on Friday, 18th October 1918
Alfred Levell was born in Clare in March 1886 (Risbridge Q1-1886 4A:658), baptised in Clare, St Peter and
St Paul on 20th July 1887, son of George and LEVELL (née WARD). Whether they are typos or not, the
baptism record gives year of birth as 1887 and "Soldiers Died" has him born in East Dulwich.
1891 census...Aged 5, he was at Chapel Street, Clare with his father George LEVELL [45] carpenter born
Poslingford; his mother Julia [36] born Poslingford; brothers Willie [16] and John [14] (both farm
labourers), and George [9]; sisters Rose [12], Mary Ann [7], Annie M [2] and Flory A [5 months]. All the
children were born in Clare. His sister Louisa was born in 1872 and May in 1893. His mother died in 1894
1901 census...Aged 15, he was at Chapel Street, Clare with his widower father, sisters Rose, Mary, Annie,
Florrie and May, and brother George
1911 census...Aged 25, he was a grocer's assistant,. boarding with Richard and Ellen NEWMAN at 57
Romany Road, West Norwood.
In 1915 he married Lucy Ann JARVIS in Trinity Baptist Church, Balham on 5th June 1915, later of Church
Terrace, St Michael's, Tenterden, Kent. Their son Alfred John was born in Camberwell on 6th June 1916.
He was the brother in law of John MEEKINGS
He enlisted in Camberwell, Surrey on 11th June 1915 just 6 days after his wedding. From 128 Barry Road,
East Dulwich, he gave his age as 29 years 90 days. He was 5 feet 2.25 inches tall, chest 32!" to 35",
weighing 116 lbs. A grocer's assistant, he had a wife Lucy Ann. He reported to Wilson's Grammar School at
9.30 am on 14th, before joining the 17th Battalion, King's Royal Rifle Corps.
Posted to the B.E.F. on 7th March 1916 he received wounds to his right shoulder and his face on 14th
October and was admitted to 132 Field Ambulance then sent on 15th to 49 Casualty Clearing Station and the
next day to 4 General Hospital, Camiers. From there, on 19th October, via Hospital Ship "Asturias" he was
evacuated to England and admitted to Nottingham General Hospital on 21st October before going on to
Epsom Hospital on 3rd November. He left there to return to duty on 28th November.
On 4th February 1917 he embarked at Marseilles and arrived in Salonica on the 11th. On 25th August he
was admitted to 81 Field Ambulance with NYDP (Not Yet Diagnosed Pyrexia = Army talk for "Don't
know". What ever the fever was, he was sent to the convalescent camp at Stavros on 2nd September and
returned to his unit on 5th September. Transferred to 4th Battalion on 17th October 1917, he spent much of
early 1918 in and out of hospital (some comments illegible) before embarking at Itea on 27th June 1918,
reaching Taranto, Italy on 27th and joining his unit on 28th. He then was given leave to UK from 30th
August to 16th September before returning to France and his unit on 17th and was then killed in action on
18th October 1918
85
His widow received his personal; belonging, consisting only of a safety razor and a wrist watch. She was
awarded a pension £1/5/0 weekly for herself and one child
When his widow completed the "Living Relatives" form on25th July 1919 she added beside herself and their
child, his father George living as Chapel House, Chilton Street, Suffolk, his brothers John (at 128 Barry
Road, East Dulwich) and William and George of unknown address, also three sisters, Louisa Rose, Mary
Ann and Florence May,no addresses given.
During correspondence with the Army, his widow's address changed from 192 Trinity Road, Wandsworth
Common to 58 Harold Road, Upper Norwood, London SE19
MARTIN, Frederick Aged 18 There is some confusion here between the Martins in Clare and in Poslingford It does beg the question as to why two brothers would be on the Poslingford memorial and only one at Clare? Further research (or a relative's help) is required
Frederick Martin is buried in Long Melford (Holy Trinity) Churchyard
No.229485, Private, Frederick MARTIN
1st Battalion, Royal Fusiliers formerly 290195, Cambridgeshire Regiment
formerly 3091, Suffolk Regiment Died of his Wounds on Tuesday, 16th July 1918
Frederick Martin was born in Poslingford (Risbridge Q4-1898 4A:779), son of George and Julia MARTIN
(née HONEYBALL).
He may well be the brother of Harry Martin, son of Harry and Jane, but that military death connection has
not been established
1901 census...Aged 2, he was at The Street, Poslingford with his father George MARTIN [25] shepherd; his
86
mother Julia [26] born Wickhambrook and his brother Arthur [6]. All except his mother born in Poslingford.
His mother died in 1902 and his father married Hannah SALTER in 1903
1911 census...Aged 12, he was in Poslingford with his father, step mother Hannah [37] born Long Melford
and brother Arthur (farm labourer).
They appear to have moved to Clare after 1914, before moving on to Long Melford
His brother Arthur was killed in action serving in France in the Gordon Highlanders in August 1918
He enlisted in Sudbury. He had clearly added to his age as the CWGC have him as aged 21.
With no Army service record available, it is impossible to say here where or when exactly he was wounded.
87
MARTIN, Harry Aged 22
Harry Martin is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Turkey
No.1346, Private, Frederick MARTIN
5th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment Killed in Action on Saturday, 21st August 1915
Harry Martin was born in Clare on 12th September 1892 (Risbridge Q4-1892 4A:647), baptised in Clare St
Peter and St Paul on 4th June 1893, son of Thomas and Elizabeth Jeanette MARTIN (née PARKER ).
Admitted to Clare Council Mixed School 1st March 1900 when living at Nethergate Street, Clare and left
for work on 3rd August 1908
1901 census...Aged 8, he was at Nethergate Street, Clare with his father Thomas MARTIN [40] beerhouse
keeper/plumber/glazier; his mother Janette [40]; brothers William [18] (plumber), Alfred [13] (plumber and
glazier apprentice), Fred [5] and Sidney [2];sisters Nellie [16] and Sally [12]. All were born in Clare.
1911 census...Aged 18, a labourer,he was at Nethergate Street,Clare with his parents; brothers Fred
(apprentice upholsterer) and Sidney; sister Trissie [7] born Clare
He married Rosa SUTTLE (Risbridge Q2-1915 4A:2288)
It may well be that it is his brother Fred named on the memorial, but that military connection/death has not
been established
He enlisted in Clare. His number suggests enlistment in around 1911/1912. He also must have enlisted the
same time and died on the same day as James Dearsley
The History of the Suffolk Regiment by Lt Col Murphy gives the impression that it was a quiet spell in
Reserve with some sniping and shell fire, but the CWGC records have 53 men dying that day, only one has a
known grave. In that theatre of war, disease was as likely to kill as enemy action.
88
MARTIN, William Aged 31
William Martin is commemorated on the Doiran Memorial, Greece
No.S/766, Sergeant, William MARTIN
4th Battalion, Rifle Brigade ( The Prince Consort's Own) Killed in Action on Monday, 15th April 1918
William Martin was born in Clare ( belived to be Risbridge Q3-1886 4A:627) son of William and Alice
MARTIN (née PARKER ).
1891 census...Aged 4, he was at Malting Lane, Clare with his father William MARTIN [29] farm labourer;
his mother Alice [28]; brothers George [9] and Fred [1]; sister Sarah [7]. All were born in Clare.
1901 census...Aged 14, assistant stockman, he was Bridewell Street, Clare with his grandfather William
PARKER [82] on parish relief. At Bridewell Street, Clare were his parents, brothers Fred, Bertie [5] and
English Robert [1]; sister Annie [3]. The new siblings all born in Clare.
1911 census...Not yet found in this census but his Army number suggests he enlisted in 1905. At Bridewell
Street, Clare were his parents (father now stockman); brothers Bertie (farm labourer), English Robert and
Walter [6] born Clare; niece Marie Florence MARTIN [1] born Battersea.
His Army "personal Effects entry gives his sole legatee as Mother-Alice, implying that he was still single.
He enlisted in Battersea, when resident in Clare.
Thanks to 1914-198.invisionzone.com forum and Andy the following has been found from the regimental
accounts:-
By 4.0a.m., April 15th, signal communication was established between Battalion H.Q. and all companies
and at 5.0a.m. all was reported quiet . At 6.15a.m. "B" Company reported verbally that enemy movement
could be heard in Prosenik and then that desultory rifle fire had been opened from the village, as no enemy
could be seen, no reply was being made; some enemy bombs also had been thrown but had fallen short,
whilst No. 5 Platoon Lewis gun opened fire with effect on a party of the enemy trying to cross the railway
sixty or seventy yards to the right, and "C" Company engaged others in the centre of the village with rifle
grenades.
At 7.0a.m. the enemy began shelling Top Crossing, fire gradually moving down towards "B" Company; at
the same time an observation post of this company near the church was cut off; one wounded survivor
rejoining his company three hours later. At this time hostile artillery fire opened on "C" Company's position
and a line of Bulgars in extended order was seen advancing on that company from the north. Soon after
7.0a.m. telephone communication with "B" and "C" was broken and was never re-established, the lines
being repaired repeatedly and, as frequently, cut once more.
At 10.0 a.m. Colonel Gathorne-Hardy sent a message by runner to O.C. "D" Company ordering him to
inform "C" Company that, if heavily attacked, it should fall back on "D" Company.
89
At 11.0 a.m. a runner from "C" Company arrived at Battalion H.Q. to say that shelling was heavy but that,
so far, there were no casualties; this was confirmed by another runner at 12.25 p.m., who brought a nil
casualty report from "C" Company, signed by Captain Millar.
At 2.30 p.m. the enemy opened heavy rifle fire and machine gun fire on "C" Company's trenches from the
railway station, north of the village, 2nd Lieutenant G. Hannam being wounded - the first casualty to be
reported; the fire pinned "C" Company to its trenches and prevented the men putting their heads over the
parapet, such was the fire.
Shortly before 3.0. p.m. the C.O. sent another message to "C" Company repeating the sense of his message
of 10.0 a.m.
At 3.30 p.m. the enemy bombed and rushed "C" Company's left trench, and the garrison, No.12 Platoon, in
attempting to fall back on No. 11 were caught in the open by machine gun fire from the railway station and
suffered heavily. About 4 p.m. No. 11 Platoon drove off a small party of Bulgars which attempted to rush it,
at about the same time, wounded men arriving at Battalion H.Q. reported "C" Company was in a tight
corner. Two Platoons of "D" Company were ordered to be ready to counter-attack, but this never took place
as more wounded men reported that "C" Company had been rushed and was completely out of action; this
happened at 4.30 p.m.
Lieutenant R. Palk, tha acting Adjutant, was later sent up to find out the situation and order "B" Company
to fall back; he found "C" Company's position in the hands of the enemy, estimated at three hundred men,
and ordered the withdrawal of "B". This was carried out, supported by two platoons of "A", on whose
position "B" Company withdrew. At 7.30 p.m. dispositions were made for the all round defence of Topalova.
Casualties in "C" Company had been Captain A.L. Millar, and W.O. and fifteen other ranks killed;
Lieutenant J.A. Read and 2nd Lieutenant G. Hannam wounded and missing with ninety six other ranks
missing.
CWGC records have 21 killed in the battalion that day
90
MAXIM, Bennett George Aged 30
No 24450, Private, Bennett George MAXIM
Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment) Died on Sunday, 31st July 1921
Bennett George Maxim was born in Clare on 28th February 1891(Risbridge Q2-1891 4A:731), son of
Walter and Arethusa MAXIM (née GAZIN).
1891 census...Aged 1 month he was at Callis Street, Clare with his father Walter MAXIM [29] carpenter
born Hartest; his mother Arethusa [32]; brother Walter Bennett [3]. All except his father were born in Clare.
He was admitted to Clare Council School on 1st March 1899,leaving top go to work on 16th June 1904. The
school record has his father as Fred MAXIM.
1901 census...Aged 10, he was at Callis
Street, Clare with his parents, brother
Walter and a new brother, Willoughby
[[7] born Clare.
1911 census...Aged 20, a butcher, he was
at Callis Street, Clare with his parents
(father now recorded as Fred) and brother
Willie a cycle repairer. Of the five
children his mother had borne, 2 had died.
His brother enlisted in the Essex regiment
in November 1915, mobilised in February
1916 and survived the war.
Bennett attested in Clare on 7th February 1916 giving his age as 24 years, 11 months, a carter on farm from
Callis Street, Clare. He was 5 feet 9.5 inches tall, chest 33.5" to 35". His next of kin was father Fred Maxim
of Callis Street, Clare. He was placed on General Service Reserves and then mobilised in Bury St Edmunds
on 6th April 1916 in the 1st Battalion, East Surrey Regiment.Posted to the 9th Battalion, he was sent to join
On 16th September 1916 he was transferred to the 1st battalion, The Queen's Royal; West Surrey
Regiment but posted to Depot on 3rd March 1917. He was discharged on 1st December 1917 as
permanently unfit (due to military service) for war service and awarded Silver War Badge ~ 280156 Q
The reason for his discharge has not been found with his Army records and he is not listed on CWGC
records. If his death certificate refers to any military cause of death then he may still be able to be
recognised. It must be documented that his death was caused by or aggravated by military service
Bennett Maxim is buried in Clare Cemetery
91
MEEKINGS, John Aged 40
John Meekings is buried in Etaples Military Cemetery, grave LXXII:A:12
Alfred Daines was born in Ovington, Essex (Risbridge Q3-1888 4A:621), son of Charles and [Sarah] Ann
DAINES (née SMEE ?).
1891 census...Aged 2, he was in Poslingford with his father Charles DAINES [48] farm labourer; his mother
Ann [44]; brothers Thomas [21] (farm labourer) and Charles [12] (all born in Toppesfield, Essex); sisters
Susannah [7], Elizabeth [5] and Beatrice [4]; brother William [10] (all born in Ovington, Esseex).
1901 census...Aged 12, he was at The Street, Poslingford with his parents (fathernow stockman); brothers
Lewis (Thomas?)[32] unemployed and William (farm labourer); sisters Grace (Elizabeth ?) and Beatrice.
1911 census...Aged 22, farm labourer, he was at Poslingford with his parents (father a milkman on farm);
niece Olive DAINES [3] born Clacton (parentage not identified).His mother had borne 12 children but three
had died.
He enlisted in Clare. The Gloucestershire Regiment, uniquely in the British Army, wear two badge on the
hats, one at the front and a slightly smaller one at the back. This honour was bestowed upon them in
recognition of their efforts when surrounded by the enemy in the Battle of Alexandria in 1801.
The battalion, part of 184th Brigade were in Holnon Wood, with the 2nd/4th Ox and Bucks in front line,
2nd/4th Berkshire at Ugny. The war diary:- 21/3/18 - 4:30 am - Enemy bombardment opens and continuous
until 11:30 am with E and gas. Weather misty until mid day. Battn ordered to battle stations at 5 am. At 1
pm enemy break through forward zone form line 500 yards front of battle zone. No attack on battle zone.
Dispositions B Coy R front, A Coy L front, C Coy counter-attack, D Coy passive defence. Three officers
wounded" CWGC records show 35 of the battalion killed this day, 19 with no known grave
the position on 21st March 1918
114
HICKS, Charles Aged 41
photo: Rodney Gibson
Charles Hicks is buried in Birr Cross Roads Cemetery, grave 1:G:28
No.20272, Private, Charles HICKS 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Killed in Action on Thursday, 2nd March 1916
Charles Hicks was born in Clare (Risbridge Q1-1873 4A:483), son of Frederick and Sarah HICKS (née BAREHAM).
1881 census...Aged 8, he was at The Cottages in The Street,Poslingford with his father Frederick HICKS [42] labourer, born Poslingford; his mother Sarah [44] born Hundon; brothers Harry John [17] labourer born Poslingford, Arthur [12] labourer born Clare and Albert [3] born Poslingford; sisters Mary Ann [11] and Alice [5] both born in Clare.
1891 census...Aged 18, farm labourer, he was in Poslingford with his parents (father now a tailor); brothers George [19] farm labourer born Clare and Albert (gardener's assistant); niece Florence HICKS [2] born Poslingford (parentage unknown)
1901 census...Aged 28, farm labourer, he was at The Street, Poslingford with his parents; brother Albert (farm labourer) and niece Florence.
1911 census...Aged 38, single,farm labourer, he was still in Poslingford with his parents (father now recorded as retired farm labourer). His mother had borne 8 children but one had died. He enlisted in Clare. The 2nd Battalion, Suffolks was in it's assembly area on the night of 1st March near Bedford House on the St.Eloi-Ypres road. They were to try and retake our trenches recently lost to the Germans The attack started at 0445 'B', 'C' and 'D' companies on the south side of the Bluff. Immediately star shells were sent up by the Germans turning night into day. Our artillery then opened up on their 2nd line, our troops already being through the first line, having taken the enemy by surprise. 'A' company on the left was not so lucky, being caught by a counter barrage before they could leave King Street. By 0700 the lost trenches had been re captured. The ground was in a terrible state, churned up by the barrages and the battalion left the line sparsely occupied while they returned to the assembly trenches. An enemy barrage continued all day, but our artillery countered effectively. A successful operation result in the recapture of all the ground previously lost, but at the cost of 250 casualties out of the 500 employed. It was, incidentally, the first operation when they wore the newly issued steel helmets (the tin hats). CWGC records 53 killed, and only 6 having an identified grave.
115
HICKFORD, Herbert James Aged 24
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Herbert Hickford is buried in Gaza War Cemetery, grave 8:G:14
No.240550, Private, Herbert James HICKFORD 1st/5th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment formerly No 2369, Suffolk Regiment
Killed in Action on Friday, 2nd November 1917
Herbert James Hickford was born in Posligford (Risbridge Q3-1893 4A:708), baptised in St Mary's,
Poslingford on 8th August 1894, son of George and Susannah HICKFORD (née ATKINSON).
1901 census...Aged 7, he was at Church Street, Poslingford with his widowed grandmother Maria
ATKINSON [61]; uncle Willie ATKINSON [31] horseman. All born in Poslingford. His parent were next
door. His father George HICKFORD [36] stockman born Clare; his mother Susannah [35]; brothers
Walter[6] and Ernest [1]; sister Florence [3]. All except his father born in Poslingford.
1911 census...Aged 17, farm labourer, he was at Poslingford with his uncle Willie ATKINSON,
grandmother Maria ATKINSON and his sister Florence [13] born Poslingford. His parents were in
Poslingford with his brothers Walter (farm labourer), Ernest and Albert [8] and sister Elsie [7] both born in
Poslingford.
He enlisted in Clare.
The 1st/5th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment were involved in the 3rd battle for Gaza. Zero for the attack was 3
am on 2nd November 1917. The objective for the Suffolks was a 6,000 yards front from Umbrella Hill to
the sea at Sheikh Hassan, Sheikh Hassan being 3,000 yards from their start point. The first line trenches at
El Arish Redoubt were soon cleared, then the second and third lines. As their flank was then exposed they
withdrew to the second line. By the morning of the 7th the Turks had all gone but at the cost to the Suffolks
of 150 casualties.
CWGC have 34 killed on the 2nd, all bar 5 buried in Gaza War Cemetery.
116
MARTIN, Arthur Aged 23
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Arthur Martin is buried in Warry Copse Cemetery, Courcells-le-Comte, grave A:36
No.S/42253, Private, Arthur MARTIN 1st Battalion, Gordon Highlanders
Killed in Action on Friday, 23rd August 1918
Arthur Martin was born in Poslingford (Risbridge Q3-1894 4A:663), son of George and Julia MARTIN (née
HONEYBALL).
1901 census...Aged 6, he was at The Street, Poslingford with his father George MARTIN [25] shepherd; his
mother Julia [26] born Wickhambrook and his brother Frederick [2]. All except his mother born in
Poslingford.
His mother died in 1902 and his father married Hannah SALTER in 1903
1911 census...Aged 16, a farm labourer, he was in Poslingford with his father, step mother Hannah [37]
born Long Melford and brother Frederick.
His brother Frederick died of his wounds at home July 1918
He enlisted in Clare on 8th September 1914 in 2nd/5th Suffolk Regiment No 2368, giving his age as 20 He
was 5 feet 5.5 inches tall, chest 36"to 37". Next of kin was father George Martin.
It is hard to explain without more documentation why he then spent so long in UK, but on 9th February
1918 he was transferred to the 3rd Reserve Battalion, Gordon Highlanders and on to 52nd Training Reserve
Battalion, before being sent to France to join the 1st Battalion Gordon Highlanders on 25th May 1918. He
was admitted to hospital on 15th July with P.U.O (Pyrexia unknown origin- Army speak for don't know
what is wrong with him). Returning to his unit on 15th July he was killed in action on 23rd August. On the
living relatives form his father is at Cranfield Cottages,Long Melford, his brother Fred having been killed.
The war diary has:-
23/8/18 - When the attack started the two right flank Coys met some opposition on the RAILWAY
EMBANKMENT half way to their objective and were exposed to considerable MG fire from their right and
right rear - They dug in however well on the flank and undoubtedly saved a large number of casualties in
the assaulting battalion.. The 2nd
Division went through at 11 am and this
relieved the pressure - about 4 pm the
Battn moved forwards to a position just
SE of GOMIECOURT and dug
themselves in. The night passed quietly
on the front except for some gas shelling
between the VILLAGE and the RAILWAY
EMBANKMENT
CWGC have 36 killed, 10 of them with
no known grave.
117
MARTIN, Frederick Aged 18 There is some confusion here between the Martins in Clare and in Poslingford It does beg the question as to why two brothers would be on the Poslingford memorial and only one at Clare? Further research (or a relative's help) is required
Frederick Martin is buried in Long Melford (Holy Trinity) Churchyard
No.229485, Private, Frederick MARTIN
1st Battalion, Royal Fusiliers formerly 290195, Cambridgeshire Regiment
formerly 3091, Suffolk Regiment Died of his Wounds on Tuesday, 16th July 1918
Frederick Martin was born in Poslingford (Risbridge Q4-1898 4A:779), son of George and Julia MARTIN
(née HONEYBALL).
He may well be the brother of Harry Martin, son of Harry and Jane, but that military death connection has
not been established
1901 census...Aged 2, he was at The Street, Poslingford with his father George MARTIN [25] shepherd; his
mother Julia [26] born Wickhambrook and his brother Arthur [6]. All except his mother born in Poslingford.
His mother died in 1902 and his father married Hannah SALTER in 1903
1911 census...Aged 12, he was in Poslingford with his father, step mother Hannah [37] born Long Melford
and brother Arthur (farm labourer).
They appear to have moved to Clare after 1914, before moving on to Long Melford
His brother Arthur was killed in action serving in France in the Gordon Highlanders in August 1918
He enlisted in Sudbury. He had clearly added to his age as the CWGC have him as aged 21.
With no Army service record available, it is impossible to say here where or when exactly he was wounded.
118
PARNELL, Frederick William Aged 20
photo: Rodney Gibson Frederick Parnell is buried in Dozinghem Military Cemetery, 14:B:7
No.R/624, Able Seaman, Frederick William PARNELL
Anson Battalion, R.N.Div., Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Died of his Wounds on Wednesday, 7th November 1917
Frederick William Parnell was born in Poslingford on 12th September 1897 (Risbridge Q4-1897 4A:769),
baptised in Poslingford St Mary's on 1st January 1898, son of Walter Warren and Eliza PARNELL (née
RIVETT).
1901 census...Aged 3, he was at Shepherd and Dog, Poslingford with his father Walter W [45] innkeeper
born in Mayland, Essex, his mother Eliza [43] born Clare; brothers Harry [14] farm labourer and his twin
brother Walter W; sister Catherine P [17] and Ethel E [12]. All the children were born in Poslingford.
1911 census...Aged 13, he was at The Shepherd and Dog, Poslingford with his parents; sister Catherine and
brother Harry and Walter. His mother had borne 12 children but 3 had since died.
An elder brother Edward had served from June 1902 in the 4th ad the 5th Dragoon Guards, with 6 years in
South Africa (1902 to 1908) before discharge through ill health on 11th May 1917,
He enlisted initially on 5th June 1916 and placed on Army Reserve until 17th January 1917 when he was
discharged and enrolled in the Royal Navy Division. He gave his date of birth as 12th September 1897, a
farm labourer, address Shepherd and Dog Inn, Poslingford, where father Walter W Parnell was innkeeper.
He was 5 feet 5.25 inches tall, weighed 114 lbs, chest 34.5"m brown hair, blue eyes and Church of England.
In August 1914 there were 20,000 to 30,000 Naval Reservists more than
was needed to man the ships, so 2 Naval Brigades and one Marine
brigade were formed to fight on land. It was No 2 Naval Brigade, which
became the 189th Brigade, to which the Anson battalion was attached and
to which Frederick was posted.
Since he died of his wounds there is no way of telling exactly when or
where he was wounded but the brigade was fighting the the 3rd battle of
Ypres at the end of October/beginning of November 1917. They had just
taken Varlet Farm, south east of Poelcappelle.
119
RAWLINSON, Joseph Aged 37
Joseph Rawlinson is buried in Delville Wood Cemetery, Longueval grave 2:K:7
No.18335, Private, Joseph RAWLINSON
2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment Killed in Action on Thursday, 20th July 1917
Joseph Rawlinson was born in Poslingford (Risbridge Q3-1879 4A:503), son of William and Elizabeth
RAWLINSON (née BORLEY) The surname on official documents is continually changing, Rawlinson,
Rawlingson, Rollinson, but the family in all cases comprises the same group. The only item that jars is the
only birth registration found is late 1879 and that does not tie in with the census age, but it seems the
baptismal date was been used for some reason. The baptism record clearly shows birth on 18th July 1879
and baptism on 2nd May 1880 in St Mary's Poslingford
1881 census...Aged 11 months, he was at New England, Poslingford with his father William ROLLINSON
[43] labourer; his mother Elizabeth [44]; brothers Charlie [18], John [16] both labourers and Alfred [11];
sisters Emma [6], Elizabeth [4] and Kate [2].All were born in Poslingford, all Rollinson..
1891 census...Aged 11,he was at New England, Poslingford with his parents (mother recorded as born in
Hawkedon) and sister Elizabeth. All Rawlinson.
1901 census...Aged 21, a coal carman, he was lodging with the Blackman family at 95 Bovill Road,
Lewisham. His parents and sister Elizabeth were in New England, Poslingford, all RAWLINSON, and
mother recorded as Hawkedon born . In Q4-1902 in Lewisham, Joseph Rowlinson married Rose Ellen
GARWOOD. His father died in 1904. Sister Elizabeth then married Frederick BIGG and in 1911, Joseph's
mother was living with the BIGG family in Knettishall near Thetford.
1911 census...Aged 31, a farm labourer, he was at The Street, Poslingford with his wife Ellen Rose [31]
born Cavenham, Suffolk and their daughters Doris Rose [6], Lottie Nellie Ethel [4] and Kathleen Annie [2]
and son Joseph William [3 months]
Rose Ellen married John F. BARTON in Q3-1918 and lived at Blacksmiths Hill, Poslingford.
He enlisted in Clare. On the 20th July, during the Battle of the Somme, the 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment were assembled and deployed in Pont Street, taking part in the renewed attacks on Longueval and Delville Wood. The artillery barrage lifted while it was still dark and the advance began. Again, from Lt Col Murphy's "History of the Suffolk Regiment" :- The two Suffolk companies in the forward line moved in double lines of platoons with a front of 140 yards each. Much bitter fighting followed, which, though indecisive locally, enabled a footing to be gained in High Wood by a division containing another Suffolk battalion - the 4th, and the British line to be linked up thence with Longueval. The casualties in the 2nd battalion were heavy.... In fact 113 were killed.
120
ADDISON, Frederick George Aged 28
Photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Frederick Addison is buried in Kanchanburi War Cemetery grave 8:H:43
No.5828683, Corporal, Frederick George ADDISON 5th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Died in Captivity on Thursday, 3rd June 1943
Frederick George Addison was born in Poslingford on 25th October 1913 (Risbridge Q4-1913 4A:1720) son
of Sidney George [1884] and Ada [1888] ADDISON (née HURST).
In 1939 his parents, brother Leslie John [1916] and sister Mary Elizabeth [1922] (later GREEN) were at 1
Clapton Hall Cottages, Poslingford (1 closed record).
A farm labourer, he married Dorothy Beatrice WORDLEY ( Q1-1940 Newmarket) who was working at
Poslingford Hall in 1939. They lived at Stour Street, Cavendish and Dorothy married Leslie E. MOTT in
1946.
He was captured on 15th February 1942 on the surrender of Singapore to the Japanese.
Frederick was initially buried at Bantona B, kilometre 173.7 and re-interred in Kanchanburi in March 1946.
121
MANSFIELD, Robert Clifford Aged 30
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Robert Mansfield is buried in Florence War Cemetery grave 1:F:
No.1676452, Gunner, Robert Clifford MANSFIELD 51st Light Anti Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery
Died on Monday, 12th February 1945
Robert Clifford Mansfield was born in Poslingford (Risbridge Q2-1914 4A:1725) son of Samuel William
[1875] and Caroline [1879] MANSFIELD (née BOWERS).
In 1939 his parents have not been identified.
A poultry plucker, he married Elsie RAWLINSON ( Q4-1937 Risbridge). They lived in 1939 at The Street,
Poslingford (2 closed records)
He was the only one of his unit to die that day. The Battle for Monte Castello was in full swing, and a little
known fact, the Brazilian Expeditionary Force with the Americans eventually took that objective.
The involvement of 51 LAA in Italy at the time is so far undiscovered.
122
SCOTT, David Somerville Aged 22
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
David Scott is buried in Ranville War Cemetery grave 5:D:10
No.214847, Lieutenant, David Somerville SCOTT 8th King's Royal Irish Hussars
Killed in Action on Friday, 21st July 1944
David Somerville Scott was born in 1922 (Farnham Q1-1922 2A:287), son of Col. Arthur Elliott Somerville
[1879] and Helen Phyllis SCOTT (née ATKINSON) of Ifield Sussex, late of Poslingford.
In 1939 his father was an Honorary Flt/Lt in the RAFVR and was living at the Red Lion Hotel, Butchergate,
Carlisle. David and his mother have not been identified in 1939 but his mother is believed to have been in
the Bury St Edmunds area.
The 8th King's Royal Irish Hussars became the Armoured Reconnaissance regiment of the 7th Armoured
Division in 1943. They landed in Normandy on 9th June 1944.
The unique "tent hat" of the officers of the regiment..still continued in the Queen's Royal Hussars
123
STOKE BY CLARE WAR MEMORIAL
Undated postcard..around early 1920's
124
The Stoke by Clare war memorial is a Portland stone obelisk on a square plinth stood on two steps
and a base. Sited beside the old school in the south east corner of the village green, almost hidden
at times when the hedge has not been clipped, it was unveiled on 23rd January 1921 by Field
Marshall Sir William R. Robertson Bart G.C.B, G.C.M.B., K.C.V.O., D.S.O. and dedicated by The
Rt Rev Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Sudbury. Reported in the East Anglian Daily Times of 25th
January 1921. The dedication on the face of the obelisk reads:-
TO THE
MEMORY
OF THE MEN
OF STOKE
WHO FELL IN
THE GREAT WAR
1914-1919
and below on the face of the plinth the name (christian name, surname) in two columns, in
alphabetical surname order, except for Alfred Jay who appears to have been added later to the left
hand column
125
Then on the faces on the plinth on either side are the names and initials of those who served, with
the rank of all those above the rank of Private, 39 on the left side, and 40 on the right side, all in
three columns, Army first, then Navy, all in alphabetical order of surname within each service.
On the step below the face has been added:-
1939 - 1945
C. COURT R. MAY H. WARDEN
A glazed 1914-1918 Roll of Honour inside the church
1939-1945 Roll of Honour
126
St John the Baptist's Stoke by Clare
127
BAREHAM, Walter Aged 35
photo; Pierre Vandervelden www.inmemories.com
Walter Bareham is buried in Bleuet Farm Cemetery, grave 1:E:22 No.223190, Private, Walter BAREHAM
226th Div. Employment Coy, Labour Corps formerly 51576, 2nd Battalion, Royal Fusiliers
formerly 6892 Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment) Killed in Action on Tuesday, 7th August 1917
Walter Bareham was born in Stoke by Clare on 26th July 1882 (Risbridge Q3-1882 4A:562), son of Daniel
and Eliza BAREHAM (née PLEDGER). Admitted to Stoke by Clare National/Voluntary School in March
1985, when living at The Green.
1891 census...Aged 8, he was at Cottage, Mill Lane, Stoke by Clare with his father Daniel BAREHAM [46]
farm labourer born Toppesfield; his mother Eliza [44] born Stoke; brothers Arthur [18], Alfred [13], Herbert
[1] and widowed grandmother Susannah [83]. All except his father were born in Stoke by Clare.
1901 census...Aged 18, a brickfield labourer, he was boarding at 119 Shortlands Road, Sittingbourne, Kent
with the PRICE family. His parents were still in Stoke with his brother Herbert [11] and sister Miriam [9].
He married Alice Bobby on 24 April 1909, who later re-married, in 1921, to Charles BEST of The Rising
Sun, Swanscombe, Kent
1911 census...Aged 28, a cement labourer, he was at 75 High Street, Galley Hill, Swanscombe with his wife
Alice [24] born Swanscombe and their son Walter John [23rd April 1910]. His parents and brother Herbert
(domestic gardener) were at The Green, Stoke by Clare.
Further children were Constance Alice [26 July 1911], Leslie George [8th March 1913] and Frederick
Alfred [20th Nov 1915], all born in Swanscombe. Living Relatives form completed by his widow in 1919 ,
she and the four children were in Swanscombe, his parents were both still in Stoke by Clare.
He enlisted in Gravesend, when resident in
Swanscombe, Kent
Enlisting in Gravesend on 11th 1915, he gave
his occupation as Publican, aged 33, born Stoke
by Clare, he was 5 feet 8.5 inches, weighed 182
lbs, chest 39" to 42". Embarked at Southampton
for Le Havre on 22nd November 1916 and
joined 2nd Battalion Royal Fusiliers in the field
on 10th December. Transferred to Brigade
Tunnelling Coy on 22st January 19167 and then
transferred to 226 Divisional Employment
Company, Labour Corps on 20th June 1917. His
service record does not say where he was when
killed and since he was in the Labour Corps by
then there is little chance of finding the location.
128
BEAVIS, Bertie Aged 21
photo; Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Bertie Beavis is buried in Abbeville Communal Cemetery, grave 2:D:10 No.15862, Private, Bertie BEAVIS 9th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Died of his Wounds on Friday, 29th September 1915
Bertie Beavis was born in Stoke by Clare on 18th September 1894 (Risbridge Q4-1894 4A:723), baptised in
St John the Baptist, Stoke by Clare on 18th November 1894, son of Walter and Jane BEAVIS (née PERRY).
Admitted to Stoke by Clare National/Voluntary School in 1897. The transcription gives his date of birth as
18th October, but the original has half the entry missing. The September date is from the baptismal records.
1901 census...Aged 6, he was at Upper Green, Stoke by Clare with his father Walter BEAVIS [32] farm
labourer; his mother Jane [31]; brother William [11]; sisters Daisy [4], Edith [3] and Beatrice [1]. All were
born in Stoke by Clare.
1911 census...Aged 16, a farm labourer, he was in Stoke by Clare with his parents; sisters Daisy, Beatrice
and Ellen [9] and brother Ernest [5]. The new siblings were born in Stoke by Clare. His mother had lost 2 of
her seven children, which must have been brother William and sister Edith but those death registrations have
not been found.
He enlisted in Haverhill.
The 9th Suffolks arrived in France on August 30th 1915 and were billeted near the coast for three weeks
until on 21st September they started what was to be a 4 night march in pouring rain to Bethune arriving at 1
am on 25th. There they expected a 48 hours rest in billets, instead of which they were ordered into the battle
line near Vermelles at 11:30 am.
Since Bertie died of wounds in a base hospital and his service record is not available, it is impossible to say
exactly where or when he was wounded, but it would have been around the Hulluch area. His "Soldier's
Effects" entry has him killed in action which obviously is incorrect.
129
BOWERS, Charles Aged 37 most likely to be
Charles Bowers is buried in Stoke by Clare cemetery.
No.98482, Private Charles BOWERS
16th Company, Labour Corps formerly 31294, Labour Bn, Royal Berkshire Regiment
formerly 35956 Royal Fusiliers Died in 1919
Charles Bowers was born in Stoke by Clare on 30th April 1882 (Risbridge Q2-1882 4A:575) Baptised in St
John the Baptist, Stoke by Clare on 27th July 1890, son of Henry and Hannah BOWERS (née BAREHAM
). His father was the son of Caroline BRUTY, who later married Charles BOWERS so it is possible he
might be found using the BRUTY surname, his father appears to have married as Charles Henry BRUTY.
He was admitted to Stoke by Clare National/Voluntary School in April 1887 when living at Mill Green
1891 census...Aged 9, he was at Chapel Street, Stoke by Clare with his father Henry BOWERS [42] farm
servant born Ashen, Essex; his mother Hannah [40]; brothers George [15] and James [13] both farm hands,
brother Frederick [10 months]. All except his father were born in Stoke by Clare.
1901 census...Aged 19, a builder's carter, he was at Chapel Street, Stoke by Clare with his parents and
brothers James (farm labourer) and Frederick.
1911 census...Aged 29, he was still in Chapel Street with his parents and brother James. There is no record
of children surviving but his Army "Soldier's Effects" entry in 1922 give his father as deceased ( apparently
in 1918) and only two brothers alive, James in Stoke by Clare and Frederick in the Royal Marines at
Chatham. The fate of brother George is unknown.
A Charles Bowers died aged 37 at 54 Chapel Street, Stoke by Care on 19th September 1919 from Phthisis
(tuberculosis) (Risbridge Q3-1919 4A:962), (brother Frederick the informant and present at death) who may
well be the man
He enlisted in Bury St Edmund on 17th January 1916 and was placed on Reserve. The medical form is
missing, but he stated he was 34 years 9 months old, a builder's carter fromMobilised Stoke by Clare, father
Henry Bowers. Mobilised in Bury St Edmunds on 5th 1916, initially 35956, 7th Bn., Royal Fusiliers, he was
transferred to the 13th Labour Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment in 19th August 1916. His fitness
classification of B1 probably being the reason for transfer to the Labour Battalion, Then on 19th September
1916 he was posted to the BEF in France/Flanders. He managed to get a months leave at home in February
1917. Transferred to to the Labour Corps, 165 Company, on 9th May 1917. Later that year he seems to have
suffered illness or wounds as he was admitted to Bury St Edmunds Military Hospital . The date of admission
is not known but it is recorded that he was released to return to France on 29th December 1917.
He remained in the BEF until 12th February 1919 and returned to UK for demobilisation on 13th March
1919. His records have an entry "Died after demob".His mother completed the Army "Living Relatives"
130
form in 1922, stating that his father was dead, brother James was living with her at Chapel Street, Stoke by
Clare and his brother Frederick was in the Royal Marines at Chatham.
The cause of death on his death certificate does not indicate any Army service connection, and his Army
documentation mentions no illnesses at the time of his demob, therefore he is not on the National Book of
Remembrance by CWGC.
Exactly where he now rests is currently unknown but is is assumed to be the Cemetery in Stoke by Clare.
This another example of the difficulty of establishing the facts when a man survived the war, only
to die before 31st August 1921. At least Charles Bower's Army service record, in part, still
survives. Possibly the local Records Office will have his burial details, since death certificates do
not give this fact.
It is in cases such as this where relatives can be of the greatest help.
Charles is not on the CWGC records, and his death certificate does not link his death with his
military service. That is almost certain to preclude him being recognised for the National Book of
Remembrance, despite the fact that is seems more than likely that some form of TB had been
contracted during his Army service. No where has any documentation been found to help.
BROWN, George
Currently no idea at all as to civilian or military identity
131
BRUTY, Arthur Aged 20
photo; Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Arthur Bruty is buried in Favreuil British Cemetery, grave 2:B:25
No.G/47618, Private, Arthur BRUTY
4th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers(City of London Regiment) Killed in Action on Tuesday, 20th November 1917
Arthur Bruty was born 30th January 1897 (Risbridge Q1-1897 4A:779), son of George and Emma BRUTY
(née MEARS). He was admitted to Stoke by Clare National/Voluntary School in April 1901 when living at
Stoke Road.
1901 census...Aged 4, he was at Stoke Road, Clare with his father George BRUTY [34] horsekeeper; his
mother Emma [33]; brother George [13] (cattle man on farm); sisters Agnes [11], Edith [9] and Jessie [6].
All were born in Stoke by Clare.
1911 census...Aged 14, farm labourer, he was at Half Way House. Stoke Road, Clare with his parents;
brother George (farm labourer); sisters Jessie and Evelyn [5]. All the children are now recorded as born in
Clare.
They were later at Burnt House, Stoke by Clare.
He enlisted in Clare.
Three Royal Fusilier Battalions (2nd, 8th and 9th) took part in the attack on the opening day of the Battle of
Cambrai which commenced at 6:20 on 20th November 1917, but the 4th had been in Fremicourt, training
and supplying working parties until told to hold themselves ready to move at a moments notice. That meant
they were busy dumping surplus baggage and kit. Somehow that day, being in support, they managed to
have 5 killed according to CWGC. All this around Noyelles and Equancourt.
132
DRANE, Percy Aged 19
Percy Drane is buried in Cerisy-Gailly Military Cemetery, grave 2:D:10
Charles Reade was born in Stoke by Clare on 12th September 1888,(Risbridge Q4-1888 4A:630), son of
George and Susannah READE (née INCE).
He was admitted to Stoke by Clare National/Voluntary School in February 1892.
1891 census...Aged 2, he was at Chapel Street, Stoke by Clare with his father George READ [39] farm
servant; his mother Susannah [40]; brothers Arthur [17], Harry [15] and Eli [13] farm servants; sisters Ada
[9], Eliza [7] and Frances [5]. All were born in Stoke by Clare.
1901 census...Aged 12,working on farm, he was at Chapel Street still with his parents (father now recorded
as born in Toppesfield); sisters Beatrice [9] and Elsie [7] both born in Stoke by Clare.
1911 census...Aged 22, farm labourer, he was still at Chapel Street with his parents, father now recorded as
born at Yeldham. His mother had borne 10 children but two had died.
He enlisted in Waltham Abbey when resident in Enfield.
Without his Army records, there is no way of knowing exactly when or where he was wounded. The
battalion were in the trenches near Oppy and Arleux at the end of April 1917
154
SMITH, Joseph Aged 19
photo: Roy Beardsworth
Joseph Smith is commemorated on the Pozières Memorial, panels 54 to 56
No.47783, Private, Joseph SMITH
6th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment Killed in Action Friday, 22nd March 1918
Joseph Smith was born in Stoke by Clare on 23rd July 1898,(Risbridge Q3-1898 4A:785), baptised in St
John the Baptist, Stoke by Clare on 26th November 1899, son of William and Eliza SMITH (née JAY) of
the Maltings.
He was admitted to Stoke by Clare National/Voluntary School in June 1903.
1901 census...Aged 2, he was at The Maltings, Stoke by Clare with his father William SMITH [37] horse
keeper born Wixoe; his mother Eliza [36]; brother Frank [13] farm labourer; sisters Emily [10] and Florie
[8]. All except his father were born in Stoke by Clare.
1911 census...Aged 12, he was at the Maltings still, with his parents; brothers Frank (stockman) and Edward
[8]; sisters Emily and Daisy [2]. The new siblings also born in Stoke by Clare.
CWGC records have his mother at Stonard's Farm, Stoke by Clare.
He enlisted in Sudbury. War Diary:-5:30 am 22nd March 1918, in the line SE of JUSSY - A
position on railway embankment about 66c.M.22.d. in Bde Reserve. The 7th Bedford were on right
and the R Fusiliers on the left. Bridge at La MONTAGNE was to be blown up but this was only
partially successful. The Bn was to hold itself in readiness to counter attack in case the enemy
crossed the canal. Enemy aircraft were very active during the afternoon and a heavy bombardment
was made against our position and the enemy made an unsuccessful attempt to cross the canal but
was repulsed. The line was consolidated our sector extending from the bridge over the canal at
66c.M.23.a.8.9. to 200 yds SE of MONTAGNE BRIDGE
Casualties not recorded but CWGC records give 26 killed only 2 having known graves. It was the
2nd day of the German Spring Offensive (The Kaiserschlacht) when the Germans made
considerable advances to the west.
155
SUTTON, Thomas Stanley Aged 18
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Thomas Sutton is buried in Varennes Military Cemetery, grave 2:K:3
No.103379, Private, Thomas Stanley SUTTON 10th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment)
Killed in Action on Monday, 6th May 1918
Thomas Stanley Sutton was born in Boyton End, Stoke by Clare on 14th August 1899,(Risbridge Q3-1899
4A:805), baptised in St John the Baptist, Stoke by Clare on 22nd October 1899, son of Samuel Charles and
Kate SUTTON (née LILLY).
He was admitted to Stoke by Clare National/Voluntary School on 28th Sept.1909, coming from Wixoe
School. He left school on March 20th 1913.
1901 census...Aged 1, he was at Boyton End, Stoke by Clare with his father Samuel C SUTTON [34]
journeyman bricklayer born Alpheton; his mother Kate [33] born Alpheton; brothers Sydney C [11] born
Alpheton, and George W [4] (born Boyton End) and sister Gertrude L [[9] born Alpheton.
1911 census...Aged 11, he was at Stoke by Clare with his parents; brothers Sydney Charles (journeyman
bricklayer) and George (farm labourer); sister Alice Annie [5] born Stoke by Clare; grandmother, widow
Constance LILLY [73] born Long Melford. All 5 siblings survive.
He enlisted in Bury St.Edmunds on 14th September 1917, giving his age as 18 years 1 month (date of birth
14th August 1899). He was 5 feet 1.5 inches tall, chest 35.5" to 37.5", weighing 124 lbs. Church of England.
Much of his service record is very faint but he appears to have been mobilised into the 27th Training
Reserve Bgde # TR/9/44613 and posted to the 52nd Graduated Battalion of the Bedfordshire Regiment on
2nd DFebruary 1918. Sent to France on 4th April 1918 he was posted to the 10th Battalion, Sherwood
Foresters, receiving a new number of 103379. His next of kin he gave as father, Charles SUTTON of Chapel
Street, Stoke by Clare, to whom his personal belongings were returned, consisting of letters, photos and pen
case and two discs.
War Diary:-
Englebelmer 4th May map 57D (SE) LENS - Battn relieved the 10
Bn LANC Fusiliers in the Mesnil Sector. Relief complete 3 am on
5th. A and D Coys held the outpost line with B and C Coys in
Support.
Casualties according to CWGC were 5 men.
photo: Rodney Gibson
156
TURNER, Frank
Currently no idea at all as to civilian or military identity. Not a single clue
TURNER, Oliver Thomas Aged 35
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Oliver Turner is buried in Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery, grave 16A:A;14
and also commemorated on the war memorial in Wixoe
No.163944, Gunner, Oliver Thomas TURNER
1st Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery Died of his Wounds on Wednesday, 28th August 1918
Oliver Thomas Turner was born on 7th June 1883 in Boyton End, Stoke by Clare [Risbridge Q3-1883
4A:548), baptised in St John the Baptist, Stoke by Clare on 20th July 1884, son of Oliver Thomas and
Amelia TURNER (née HUGHES).
1891 census...Aged 7, he was at Boyton End, Stoke by Clare with his father Oliver Thomas TURNER [47]
publican, born Withersfield; his mother Amelia [39] born Stoke; sisters Annie A [9] and Beatrice [1] both
born in Stoke.
1901 census...Aged 17, a fruiterer, he was at the Travellers Rest, Boyton End with his parents (father
publican/grocer); sisters Annie and Beatrice.
1911 census...Aged 27, single, a general dealer, he was still at the Travellers Rest, Boyton End with his
parents and sisters Annie Amelia and Beatrice Mary
CWGC have the family address as Baythorne End
He married Annie Martha BARBER in Q3-1911 and seems to have had two daughters, Annette E and
Phyllis E. Her address later was Stour House, Wixoe
Unusually, "Soldiers Died" does not give where he enlisted. He died at No. 48 Casualty Clearing Station and
was buried in grave 2:A:45
157
As Oliver was in a siege battery he would have been some distance from the front line, and so it would be
most likely that he was wounded in a counter barrage. It is not known exactly where or when this
happended. He was taken to No. 48 Casualty Clearing Station where he died. He was buried in grave 2:A:45
at Dury Hospital Cemetery which is now part of the grounds of Centre Hospitalier Philippe Pinel in Amiens.
This cemetery was closed in 1927 when the casualties were exhumed and removed to Villers-Bretonneux.
Below is one type of gun they used, the 9.2 inch howitzer. with a range to 12,800 meters. The gun's shorter
barrel length, adopted to make the weapon more mobile, meant that it rose into the air when fired. To
compensate for this , an 'earth box' was attached to its front and filled with 9 tons of soil.. The gun was not
fired from it's carriage and took some time to assemble in it's firing position.
158
UNDERWOOD, Ernest Aged 27
Ernest Underwood is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial at Louverval, panel 13
No.97349, Private, Ernest UNDERWOOD
"E" Battalion, Tank Corps formerly 303340, Army Service Corps
Killed in Action on Tuesday, 20th November 1917
Ernest Underwood was born in Stoke by Clare [Risbridge Q4-1890 4A:600), son of George and Susanna
UNDERWOOD (née BOWERS).
1891 census...Aged 6 months, he was at Boyton End, Stoke by Clare with his father George
UNDERWOOD [37] farm servant born Birdbrook; his mother Susanna [31] born Ashen; brothers Arthur
[10] born Stoke by Clare, William [8] and Bertie [2] both born Birdbrook; sisters Florence BOWERS [11]
born Ashen, Annie [6] and Alice [4] both born in Birdbrook.
1901 census...Aged 10, he was still at Boyton End with his parents; sisters Florence and Ada [8] born Stoke
by Clare; brothers Arthur and William, both farm labourers, and Bertie.
1911 census...Aged 20, labourer for builder, he was at Preston's Farm, Boyton End with his parents and
brothers Arthur (farm worker) and Bertie (labourer). All 8 siblings survive.
CWGC have the family address as Wixoe
He married May WARREN in Q3-1916. She married Alfred J.DRANE in 1920 and lived at 2 Station
Terrace, Stoke by Clare.
He enlisted in Haverhill.
The Tank Corps lost 91 men that day, 21 of them from "E" Battalion. It was the first day of the battle of
Cambria and the Tank Corps started with 437 tanks (nine battalions). At the end of that first day they had
lost 180, of which 65 were destroyed, 71 suffered mechanical failure and 43 ditched.
British Mark IV tank
159
from 1939-1945 COURT, C.
Currently no idea at all as to civilian or military identity. Not a single clue
MOY, Robert James Aged 31
Robert Moy is buried in Broadwell (St Paul) Churchyard, Gloucestershire, east of church
No.5828669, Sergeant, Robert James MOY 5th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Died on Sunday, 16th November 1947
Robert James Moy was born in Stoke by Clare on 25th January 1916 [Bury St Edmunds Q1-1916 4A:2673),
son of Robert and Hilda Florence MOY (née CRISP).
His parents were at 17 The Street, Stoke by Clare in September 1939, father a cow man.
He married Irene Joyce BENSLEY in Bridge, Kent in 1941. This may well have been just prior to his
sailing to Singapore. They were living in Court Lodge Farm, Petham, Canterbury where he was a herdsman.
In 1947 they were at New Cottages, Little Barrow, Moreton in the Marsh, Gloucestershire.
The 5th Suffolks were fighting in the area of Singapore when Singapore was surrendered to the Japanese on
15th February 1942. He was captured on the 17th February 1942 and liberated on 2nd September 1945. As
Robert is recognised by CWGC it is more than likely that he succumbed after demob to illness occasioned
by his captivity. The cut-off date was 31st December 1947.
160
WARDEN, Harry Aged 27
Harry Warden is buried in Sfax War Cemetery, grave 2:AA:5
Pier and Face 1 D 8 B and 8 C. Pier and Face 1 D 8 B and 8 C.No.2613830, Sergeant, Harry WARDEN
6th Battalion, Grenadier Guards Killed in Action on Wednesday, 17th March 1943
Harry Warden was born in 1915 [Sudbury Q3-1915 4A:1566), son of
Charles and Kate Ellen WARDEN (née CLEMENTS).
His parents were at 39 Cuckoo Hill, Bures in September 1939, father
a farmer, with brother Edgar (1926).
He married Evelyn F TUFFIN in December 1939
Harry Warden, first joined the army in 1933, serving in England and
Egypt. He then joined Essex police, working at Brentwood CID,
presumably being post to Stoke by Clare sometime before he was
recalled to the army in December 1939. He was posted abroad in June
1942, but was killed nine months later, aged 27, when the lorry he
was travelling hit a mine.
He left his 24 year-old wife Evelyn, daughter Greta and son Terry.
Hopefully relativesof the unknown's here can be found who may be able to give us the vital clues to fnd out more about them. At present absolutely nothing has been found that can identify them
161
WIXOE WAR MEMORIAL
To the eternal memory of the men of WIXOE who died in the service of their country, four in the Great War of 1914-1919 and one in 1939-1945
Two alabaster wall mounted tablets in the church
St Leonard's, Wixoe
162
CLARK[E], William Harry Aged 19
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission William Clarke is commemorated on the Vis-en Artois memorial, panel 10
No.279164, Private, William Harry CLARK
3rd Battalion, London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers) attached to the 2nd/2nd Battalion
formerly 626217, 20th Bn., London Regiment Killed in Action on Thursday, 8th August 1918
William Harry Clarke was born in Wixoe [Risbridge Q3-1899 4a:805], son of Harry and Angelina
CLARKE (née MASON). As ever, Clark or Clarke are completely interchangeable
1901 census...Aged 1, he was at Chapel Street, Stoke by Clare with his father Harry CLARKE [27] a
thatcher, and his mother Angelina [22], both born in Birdbrook. Many of the male members of the family
were thatchers in the Birdbrook area.
1911 census...Aged 11, he was in Wixoe with his parents and sister Lilly May [8] and brother Percy Stanley
[4] both born in Stoke by Clare.
William enlisted in Ipswich when resident in Halstead.
The 2nd/2nd Londons were in the fighting at the River Somme. On the 8th August 1918 the fog near the
river caused them to lose direction and they became involved in the fighting before the 174th Brigade had
taken their objective Pushing forward they too the quarry beyond Malard Wood and captured 4 machine
guns and over 70 prisoners. The 3rd however were now too weakened to go on, the 2/4th on their left were
no better.In a final attack the 3rd, 2/4th and 2/2nd Londons attacked again in the evening and reached the
Chipilly Spur but could go no further
and they took up an outpost line for the
night. The following days at 5:40 they
attacked again and took Celestine Wood
just north of Chipilly. By the time they
were relieved on the 10th they had lost
680 officers and men between them.
CWGC figures show the 2nd/2nd had 22
killed on the 8th August, only 3 with
known graves.
163
CLAYDON, James Aged 33
James Claydon is commemorated on the Thiepval memorial, pier and face 1C/2A
No.15548, Private, James CLAYDON
8th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment Killed in Action on Friday, 14th July 1916
James Claydon was born in Hempstead [Saffron Walden Q3-1883 4A:534], son of Alfred and Eliza Ann
CLAYDON (née WILLIS).
1891 census...Aged 8, he was at Tittle Hall, Boxted with his father Alfred CLAYDON [35] a gamekeeper,
born Hempstead; his mother Eliza [36] born Steeple Bumpstead; brothers Harry [12], Joseph [10] both born
Steeple Bumpstead and George William [3] born Boxted; sisters Amelia [5] and Aley May [1], both born
Boxted.
1901 census...Aged 18, farm labourer, he was at Tittle Hall, Boxted with his parents; sisters Kate [23] born
Bumpstead, Minnie (Amelia), May and Grace [9] born Boxted; brothers Harry (farm labourer), Joseph
(domestic gardener), William and Thomas [6] born Boxted.
1911 census...Aged 27, a farm labourer/rat catcher, single, he was still at Tittle Hall, Boxted with his
mother, brother in law George PEARSON [34], farm labourer with his son Alfred [6] and daughter Annie
[3] both born in Boxted (their mother is not identified). Eliza had born 11 children and all still survived. His
father was away, at 37 Cambridge Road, Walthamstow, visiting his son Harry and his family (wife Emma
[30] born Boxted and their son Alfred [3] born Plumstead, Kent. Also there were Doris PEARSON (Harry's
niece) [4] born Boxted and a boarder, Christopher FREE [30] born Castle Camps
The connection with Wixoe has not been found
164
James enlisted in Bury St.Edmunds.
The 8th Suffolks were on the eastern edge of Bernafay Wood on 14th July 1916. War diary says:-
Order received the 53rd Bde attack TRONES WOOD had not been successful and that 54th Brigade were
being put in - Battalion marched to BILLON WOOD, arriving at 7 am. CO had conference with Brigadier -
Battalion ordered to march via TALUS BOISE -BRIQUETERIEand to take over defence of Chimpanzee
Trench (A.5.d.) to SE corner of BERNAFAY WOOD and then along eastern edges of wood as far as
Railway:- The Battalion was in position by 11:30 am, the right of the battalion joining up with the FRENCH
Battalion HQ at BRIQUETERIE.
CWGC figures show 4 of the 8th Suffolks killed this day
A letter, sent to his Mother by his Platoon commander, was printed in the South West Suffolk Echo on 5th
August 1916. The letter was sent to Mrs Claydon at St Leonards Lodge, Wixoe, and reads as follows:-
"Dear Madam, It is with great regret that I am compelled to write to you to inform you of your son's death.
Pte. J. Claydon was in my platoon and was one of the most popular of my men. He was an excellent soldier
and always performed his duties cheerfully and thoroughly. He was killed on the 14th July, 1916, at about 4
o'clock in the afternoon. He was buried the next day and a service read over the grave by our Chaplain, the
Reverend Frazer. His grave is situated in the Bricquetine, about a quarter of a mile from the village of
Montaubaro [Montauban]. It will, I am sure, be a great comfort to you to know that he died an instant death
and could not possibly have felt any pain. I must apologize for not having written sooner, but we have been
in the firing line ever since and writing has been impossible. Please accept sincerest sympathies of the men
of the platoon and that of the Company Officers. Yours, J. Hannaford, Second-Lieut".
165
PELL, Bennett Aged 36
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Bennett Pell is buried in Dury Crucifix Cemetery, 1:A:44
No.888119, Private, Bennett PELL 46th Battalion, Canadian Infantry
Died of his Wounds on Monday, 2nd September 1918
Aged 36
Queens South Africa Medal
Bennett Pell was born on 3rd January 1882 (Hoxne Q1-1882 4A:705), baptised in St Mary's Dennington on
24th February 1882, son of John Andrew and Rebecca Sarah PELL (née WILLIS).
1891 census...Aged 8, he was at Hooton Hall Farm, Hooton Green, Wirral with his father John A PELL [34]
farmer born Newcastle on Tyne; his mother Rebekah S [39] born Ashdon, Essex; sisters Fanny M [10] and
Mary A [8] both born Dennington and Helen [7] born Brundish, Suffolk; brother Paul B [4] born Brundish.
1901 census...He was in the Army in South Africa. His parents were at Court Lodge, Hooton Kirby, Wirral
with his sister Mary A.
His mother died in 1908 (Risbridge Q3-1908 4a:406)
Aged 21, he sailed for Canada from Liverpool on 16th May 1903 aboard the SS "Pomeranian", arrivign
Montreal on 27th May with Winnipeg as his ultimate destination.
1911 census...His widower father was at Water Hall, Wixoe with brother Paul Brackenbury PELL working
for his father on the farm
At probate, his address was given as The Green Farm, Stambourne, Essex, to his brother Paul. His father
had died in 1916.
Bennett enlisted in Maidstone on 24th January 1901, in the Imperial Yeomanry No.22135. He gave his age
as 20, a farmer born in Dennington, Suffolk. he was 5 feet 8.5 inches tall,wieghed 114 lbs, chest 33" to 34",
hazel eyes, brown hair and Church of England. At this time his next of kin, his father, was at Court Lodge,
Hooton Kirby, Dartford, Kent
166
He served at home from 24th January 1901 until 21st February when he went to South Africa. He was on
South Africa service until 111th August 1902 when he retuned to UK and was discharged on 18th August
1902. He was awarded the Queen's South Africa medal with clasps for Cape Colony, Orange Free State and
Transvaal and 1901 and 1902. His intended place of residence was given as Bendyshe Hall, Radwinter,
Essex.
Canadian Archives:- RG 150, Accession 1992-93/166, Box 7703-60-item 563079
He enlisted in Canada at Kelliher, Saskatchewan on 1st December 1915, giving his date of birth as 3rd
January 1882 at Derrington (sic) England, next of kin, his brother Paul at Water hall, Essex. He was single, a
farmer and had served in the 4th Regiment, Imperial Yeomanry. he was 5 feet 8.5 inches tall, weighed 152
lbs, chest 33.5" to 38". Unfortunately his service records have not yet been transcribed and put on line.
The battalion embarked for France on 10th August 1916 and became an integral part of the 10th Infantry
Brigade, 4th Canadian Division, from 11th August 1916 until the Armistice. During its active service the
battalion fought in every major victory attributed to the Canadian Corp, suffering 1,433 killed and 3,484
wounded (a 91.5 % casualty rate) and earning the title of "Suicide Battalion".
The war diary is far too long to include here, but his Circumstances of Death card (below) states:-He took
part with his Company in an advance on enemy positions at Dury on the morning of September 2nd, 1918
but became separated from the Company before reaching the objective. His body was found the following
morning with a machine gun bullet wound in the chest. He had received First Aid but had died before he
could be carried out.
167
TURNER, Oliver Thomas Aged 35
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission Oliver Turner is buried in Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery, grave 16A:A;14
and also commemorated on the war memorial in Stoke by Clare
No.163944, Gunner, Oliver Thomas TURNER
1st Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery Died of his Wounds on Wednesday, 28th August 1918
Oliver Thomas Turner was born on 7th June 1883 in Boyton End, Stoke by Clare [Risbridge Q3-1883
4A:548), baptised in St John the Baptist, Stoke by Clare on 20th July 1884, son of Oliver Thomas and
Amelia TURNER (née HUGHES).
1891 census...Aged 7, he was at Boyton End, Stoke by Clare with his father Oliver Thomas TURNER [47]
publican, born Withersfield; his mother Amelia [39] born Stoke; sisters Annie A [9] and Beatrice [1] both
born in Stoke.
1901 census...Aged 17, a fruiterer, he was at the Travellers Rest, Boyton End with his parents (father
publican/grocer); sisters Annie and Beatrice.
1911 census...Aged 27, single, a general dealer, he was still at the Travellers Rest, Boyton End with his
parents and sisters Annie Amelia and Beatrice Mary
CWGC have the family address as Baythorne End
He married Annie Martha BARBER in Q3-1911 and seems to have had two daughters, Annette E and
Phyllis E. Her address later was Stour House, Wixoe
Unusually, "Soldiers Died" does not give where he enlisted. He died at No. 48 Casualty Clearing Station and
was buried in grave 2:A:45
As Oliver was in a siege battery he would have been some distance from the front line, and so it would be
most likely that he was wounded in a counter barrage. It is not known exactly where or when this
happended. He was taken to No. 48 Casualty Clearing Station where he died. He was buried in grave 2:A:45
at Dury Hospital Cemetery which is now part of the grounds of Centre Hospitalier Philippe Pinel in Amiens.
This cemetery was closed in 1927 when the casualties were exhumed and removed to Villers-Bretonneux.
Below is one type of gun they used, the 9.2 inch howitzer. with a range to 12,800 meters. The gun's shorter
barrel length, adopted to make the weapon more mobile, meant that it rose into the air when fired. To
compensate for this , an 'earth box' was attached to its front and filled with 9 tons of soil.. The gun was not
fired from it's carriage and took some time to assemble in it's firing position.
168
169
LE ROY, Dennis Aged 21
photo: Commonwealth War Graves Commission Dennis Le Roy is buried in Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, grave 46:J:12
No.14272316, Trooper, Dennis LE ROY
3rd Royal Tank Regiment, Royal Armoured Corps Killed in Action on Sunday, 1st April 1945
Dennis was born on 10th December 1924 (Risbridge Q1-1924 4A:1497) son of Hubert E and Annie Sophia
LE ROY(née MASON) at 3 Church Terrace Wixoe. One of nine children, he attended Wixoe School and
left at the age of 14. The family were still at 3 Church Terrace in 1939, his parents and his siblngs. He is
thought to have worked at Rippers in Sible Hedingham and also on the staff of one of the large houses in the
area, which is reinforced by his last letter home.
After conscription he did his training at Catterick Camp in Yorkshire. Dennis was a radio operator, there
were 3 of his regiment killed that day, suggesting his tank was hit. Part of 11th Armoured Division, it seems
3 RTR had just crossed the Dortmund-Ems Canal via the hastily built Bailey bridge at Birgte . The bridges
were attacked by the usual Me109 aircraft and to their great surprise the jet Me262.. It is not known
however exactly what caused the death of the three tank men.
Initially buried near Ibbenburen, 16 miles west of Osnabruck he was re-interred in Reichswald Forest War
Cemetery in 1947.
Thanks to his sister we have his last letter home (transcribed here)
14/2/1945...Dear Diana and Ted,
How can I thank you enough for the smashing parcel I received yesterday. It made me sweat to bring it here
to the billet from the office.It was a good job I had nothing
to do at the time, that allowed me a few rests on the way.
Give my love to Aunt Sophia and thank her very much for
me for what I received from her
It's the worst of having such a big staff at home. The cook
sent me some chocolate but I received nothing from the
maid yet. Has she left or got the sack.
The parcel arrived in very good order with nothing
smashed or crushed.
I'm glad you both are keeping well and I see you have not
yet moved to Waterhall yet. I suppose the repairs are still
going on. I'm keeping very well and should do if this
weather leasts any length of time. The suns shining
brightly and I see but one wispy cloud in the sky. It's the
best I've enjoyed for a long time.
Well that's about all for now. You'll have to excuse the
mistakes. Cheerio and God bless you, With lots of love,
from your brother, Dennis.
170
the bridges at Riesenbeck and Birgte where they crossed the canal
That concludes the Stour Valley Benefice
Always remembering Not just for 2 minutes each November
171
THE OLD CONTEMPTIBLES
A subject dear to my heart, as my maternal Grandfather enlisted in 1909 and served until 1921. He was one
of the very lucky survivors of this small band of men who, being regular soldiers or
Territorials, were very quickly on the scene in Belgium and France in 1914. Mostly wiped out
during the early stages of the war, they were the backbone of the Army, training and leading
the millions who joined later, either voluntarily or by conscription. When the British Army
was irritating Kaiser Wilhelm by refusing to cave in, indeed pushing his much larger army
back, Kaiser "Bill" is alleged to have issued the following command:
"It is my Royal. and Imperial command that you concentrate your energies for the immediate
present upon one single purpose, and that is that you address all your skill and all the valour
of my soldiers to exterminate first, the treacherous English, walk over General French's
contemptible little army. . . .
Now we all know the British love of belittling themselves, and here the enemy had given a wonderful
chance to indulge in another spot of name calling. Consequently this little band of warriors took upon
themselves the title of The Old Contemptibles. This was recognised by institution in 1917 of the 1914 Star,
sometimes known as the "Mons Star" The medal actually hung from the same ribbon as the 1914-15 Star but
was inscribed with Aug-Nov 1914 and 378,000 were issued to those who were in France or Belgium
between the opening day of the war, August 5th, and midnight on 22
nd November 1914. It is those men who
were the Old Contemptibles, not as is fondly imagined by so many, the other veterans who served in the
Great War. The Kaiser's command was actually issued on 19th November, the 22
nd was deemed to be the last
day of the 1st battle for Ypres.
Later still, in fact after hostilities had ceased, in 1919 a clasp was instituted which had to be claimed and had
to be checked against the records, for all who had been within range of the enemy guns between these dates.
This still further reduced the list of those who were eligible as for every front line soldier there is usually at
least one other labouring away on the supply lines etc. On the medal ribbon bar the award of this clasp is
denoted by a silver rosette on the ribbon
When the British Legion were honoured with the Royal title, at a parade at the July Racecourse in
Newmarket in 1973, I managed to speak to several Old Contemptibles and to a man they confirmed what
my Grandfather had always told me, that the Old Contemptibles medal was their most treasured award. This
despite several DSO, DCM, MC, and MM being on display on their proud chests.
The last survivor, Alfred Anderson (5th Battalion, The Black Watch), died aged 109 in 2005.
Pip, Squeak and Wilfred:
As such were the trio of medals most commonly known, the medals most frequently awarded. The name is
believed to have originated from some cartoon characters at the time
From the left, in order of precedence they are
The 1914 Star
Authorised in April 1917, sometimes referred to as the "Mons Star" was a bronze star,
with a plain reverse on which the Number, Rank, Name and Unit of the recipient was
recorded. At the centre is the inscription "Aug-Nov 1914". Awarded only to those who
served in France or Belgium, between the 1st day of the war, August 5th 1914, and 22
nd
November 1914. The award was open to officers and men of the British and Indian
Expeditionary Forces, doctors and nurses as well as Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal
Navy Reserve and Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve who served ashore with the Royal
172
Naval Division in France or Belgium. About 1,000 Royal Flying Corps and about 100 Australians from their
Volunteer Hospital Unit received it. In all 365,622 were issued. (IWM figure.)
In 1919 King George V instituted a clasp for this medal which had to be claimed and the claimant's service
checked to ensure that he had served under fire in that period. A great many were not claimed, but obviously
if a man was killed in that period he would have been eligible, but again, only in France or Germany.
145,000 clasps were actually awarded.
The clasp was worn stitched to the ribbon, with the medal, and the silver rose emblem was worn on the
medal ribbon bar, early issues with a fastener, and later two holes for sewing on. This Star and the 14-15
Star were worn with the red stripe on the left as seen from the front.
The 1914-1915 Star
Authorised in December 1918, it was awarded to those who served overseas in an operational
area against the Central Powers during these two years, except those who had already been
awarded the 1914 Star. 2,078,183 were issued. The design was the same as the 1914 Star but
with 1914-15 on the central scroll, and the same ribbon. The plain reverse records the
Number, Rank and Name of the recipient.
The award of either of these Stars entitled the recipient to the British War Medal and the
Victory Medal.
The British War Medal, 1914-1920 Authorised in 1919, it was awarded to eligible service personnel and civilians.
Qualifications for the award varied slightly according to service. The basic
requirement for army personnel and civilians was that they either entered a theatre of
war, or rendered approved service overseas between 5 August 1914 and 11 November
1918. Service in Russia in 1919 and 1920 also qualified for the award. The recipient's
number, rank, name and unit were impressed around the rim.
The medal could be issued on its own. Due to the value of the sterling silver, it was
frequently sold and then melted down. "Native" non combatants, e.g. Chinese
labourers, received a bronze version. About 6.5 million were issued.
The Victory Medal
Each of the allies each issued their own bronze victory medal with a similar design,
similar equivalent wording and identical ribbon. The British medal was designed by
W. McMillan. The front depicts a winged classical figure representing victory.
Approximately 5.7 million victory medals were issued. Interestingly, eligibility for
this medal was more restrictive and not everyone who received the British War Medal
('Squeak') also received the Victory Medal ('Wilfred'). However, in general, all
recipients of 'Wilfred' also received 'Squeak' and all recipients of 'Pip' also received
both 'Squeak' and 'Wilfred'.
The recipient's service number, rank, name and unit were impressed on the rim. Made of bronze with a gilt
finish (which did not survive much polishing!). It is on this ribbon that the oak leaf emblem denoting a
Mention in Despatches is worn, but only one emblem regardless of how many 'Mentions'.
In general, where the recipient or his next of kin could be traced, the medals were automatically issued,
except in the case of commissioned officers who had to claim their awards. A great number of medals were
not claimed. In some case the families just did not want them for a variety of reason, in some cases they had
moved and their whereabouts not discovered.
World War One medals can no longer be claimed, but next of kin from WW2 may still be able to receive
their relatives medals, but seldom as replacements. Once a medal has been issued it is incumbent on the
recipient to look after it. Loss through theft or fire, with the relevant proof, is needed for replacement
medals, but there is a charge for this.
173
Those mentioned in dispatches also wore a bronze oak leaf on this ribbon. Those eligible were service
personnel including Commonwealth and Imperial forces and included various civilians working in
recognised voluntary organisations. Around 5,750,000 were issued.
The Mention in Dispatches emblem, always worn on the Victory Medal ribbon. If no
medals were awarded, i.e. civilians , the emblem is worn on the lapel (WW1). or the War Medal (WW2).
If there is no War Medal, the emblem is worn on the coat immediately to the right of the
last ribbon.
Without the 1914 Star or the 1914-1915 Star, the two remaining medals of the trio were sometimes referred
to as "Mutt and Jeff"
Such is the Data Protection protocol, the awards of medals for those engaged in WW2 are not available on
line, indeed the only way to access this data is to pay £30 for each enquiry and even then the next of kin
have to be involved. Even next of kin cannot freely access service records although they do have more
access than others outside the immediate family.
There were many differing regulations as to entitlement to the various campaign medals, time in the theatre
of war, the extent of the theatre etc. That being the case the depiction of medal bars on these pages can at
best be treated as honest surmise. The Defence Medal in particular is a grey area. Most medals are awarded
regardless of the time constraints, where the serviceman was killed or taken prisoner before the time limit
was reached. This does not always seem to apply to the Defence Medal and attempts to clarify the situation
have so far failed. Replicas and forgeries seem to be a growth industry these days, so even possession of
medals does not always give a 100% true answer.
Even that clasp for the 1914 Star, the Old Contemptibles clasp, came in 4 different genuine guises, as of
course more than one manufacturer was used.
An example of the WW2 medals.
From the left
1939-45 Star, Africa Star with clasp for 1st Army, Defence Medal and the War Medal, with a Mention in
Dispatches emblem. Service in just about any area of the world outside of the United Kingdom would have
resulted in some campaign star such as the Africa Star above.
The 1939-1945 ribbon is always dark blue to the left, signifying the Navy, then red for Army and light Blue
for RAF.
In addition to the officially awarded medals there are a host of commemoratives. One such is the Dunkirk
veterans medal. This was instigated by the French and only as late as 1970 were British servicemen allow to
wear it. Being a commemorative it is however not worn together with the other medals, but just below them,
usually in the left breast pocket. Protocol has been relaxed of later years and whereas a person should only
ever wear his/her own medals on the left breast, widows and children etc can now be seen wearing their
relatives medals on the right breast.
174
The Silver War Badge was issued in the United Kingdom to service personnel who had been honourably
discharged due to wounds or sickness during World War I. The badge, sometimes known as the Discharge
Badge, Wound Badge or Services Rendered Badge, was first issued in September 1916, along with an
official certificate of entitlement. The sterling silver lapel badge was intended to be worn in civilian clothes.
It had been the practice of some women to present white feathers to apparently able-bodied young men who
were not wearing the King's uniform. The badge was to be worn on the right breast while in civilian dress, it
was forbidden to wear it on a military uniform.
The badge bears the royal cipher of GRI (for Georgius Rex Imperator; George, King and Emperor) and
around the rim "For King and Empire; Services Rendered". Each badge was uniquely numbered on the
reverse. The War Office made it known that they would not replace Silver War Badges if they went missing,
however if one was handed into a police station then it would be returned to the War Office. If the original
recipient could be traced at his or her discharge address then the badge would be returned.
Acknowledgements and Sources
The records here are purely my own interpretation of the records available, hopefully accurate but not
guaranteed to be so in all cases. One reason for this booklet is to try an obtain confirmation of details where possible from relatives, which, after all these years, is unlikely to be comprehensive.
My thanks naturally to all the relatives who have given me information and photographs
and my personal helpers, daughter Lene, friends Rodney Gibson, Roy Beardsworth, Tony Dunn and
Michela Pettitt who have pushed my wheelchiar across many cemeteries and taken photogrpahs where I could not reach.And the many helpers in the parishes who have come to my rescue at times
Apart from the census returns, and Commonwealth War Graves Commission website, the www.1914-
1818.invision.com members answered many queries.
It has proved essential to have a subscription to both "Ancestry" and to "Find my Past"
Moore, Michael "Battalion at War - Singapore 1942" Gliddon Books 1988
Murphy , Lt Col C C R "History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927" Hutchinson & Co. Ltd
Petrie, F.Loraine OBE
"The History of the Norfolk Regiment 4th
Aug 1914 to 31st Dec 1918. Jarrold & Sons ltd.
Westlake, Ray "Tracing British Battalions on the Somme" Pen & Sword 2004.
I must add my personal thanks to those relatives who have added to the knowledge and perhaps
even provided some photographs.
.Hopefully all other sources requiring acknowledgement have been credited on the actual page. Should any
person feel a copyright has been infringed, be assured it was not by design, and certainly not for gain.
The sole intention of this book is to try to place information about the men on the memorials of the Stour
Valley Benefice somewhere for the villagers to access.
175
Is it perhaps too much to hope that no more have their names inscribed on such stone memorials or brass plaques. At least we can do our best to remember those who are so recorded.
If you consider 11 a.m. on 11th November an inconvenient time to remember, it was not convenient for
these men when and how they died.
Too little is known about too many of the men in this book
who did not survive the Wars. YOU can help if your family lost a member in either World War. Maybe you have his medals, perhaps you have a photograph. You may even be able to confirm the identify one of the men that I have failed to identify. Contact: Tony Pringle on 01638-663343 or email [email protected]