Click on any of the names to find out more information
Abbott, Walter John
Age: Unknown
DIED 3 NOVEMBER 1916
PRIVATE ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 5 January 1917:
Mrs Abbott of 39 Queen Street, who a short time ago was informed that her husband, Private J. Abbott of the R.M.L.I. was killed by a train, has received the following letter from the Admiralty: “We have to inform you that according to a detailed report now received, his death was caused by being run over by a railway train in the Rue Colmar Railway Station, Suez, on 3rd November. It appears that on the evening of that day the deceased, who was on leave at the time, stood on the platform talking to some soldiers who were in a compartment. On the train moving out of the station he followed it along the platform, and before he was aware that he had reached the end fell down on the rails. Life was extinct before any assistance could be rendered, and he was buried in the Military Burial Ground at Suez.” The deceased soldier had served 18 years in the service, and had seen active service in the Dardanelles. He leaves a widow and five children, with whom the greatest sympathy is felt.
Interred in Suez War Memorial Cemetery - Grave B. 36
(Also served as CARTER)
Adams, David Henry
Age: 36
DIED 30 AUGUST 1917
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, WILTSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 21 September 1917:
Mr T. Adams, of Cecil Street, has received news that his brother, Private H. D. Adams, of the Wilts Regiment, has been killed in action in France on 30th August. Private Adams, who was 36 years of age, had been with the Dorsets for eight years in India before the war, and was called up under the Derby scheme about 18 months ago. He had been in France about a year. Before joining the army he was employed in the creamery department of Messrs. Aplin & Barrett. His wife died about a year ago, and two children are left orphans.
Panel 119 to 120 Tyne Cot Memorial
Adams, Walter Horace
Age: 17
DIED 5 JUNE 1916
PRIVATE ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 9 June 1916:
Among those lost through the sinking of H.M.S. Hampshire, with Lord Kitchener and Staff on board, was Private Adams, R.M.L.I. Private Adams, who was only 17, enlisted about twelve months ago. He was the son of Mrs. L. Moseley (by her first husband), and grandson of Mr. W. Bond, of 32 Crofton Avenue. Before joining the forces, he was employed at the “Western Gazette” Offices, and was connected with the Sports Club, being a good runner, footballer and swimmer. On Wednesday morning a postcard was received from him, saying he had come through the great battle (Jutland) quite safe, and would write a long letter later.
The Western Gazette 15 September 1916:
Intimation was on Saturday received from the Admiralty that the body of Private Walter H. Adams (grandson of Mr. W. Bond of 32 Crofton Avenue), who went down with Lord Kitchener on H.M.S. Hampshire off the Orkneys on June 5th, had been recovered from the sea and buried in the Naval Cemetery at Lyness, Orkneys.
F.111 Special Memorial Lyness Royal Naval Cemetery
Aldworth, Edwin Percival
Age: Unknown
DIED 8 APRIL 1918
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, COLDSTREAM GUARDS
The Western Gazette 26 October 1917:
Private P. Aldworth, of the Coldstream Guards, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Aldworth, of Lyde Road, has been wounded whilst serving in France. Private Aldworth, who has served with the forces for about 12 months, proceeded to France about four or five months ago. Before enlisting he was employed in the printing department of the Chronicle Printing Works.
The Western Gazette 3 May 1918:
Private Percy Aldworth, of the Coldstream Guards, son of Mr. and Mrs. Aldworth of Lyde Road has been killed in action in the recent heavy fighting on the Western Front. He joined the Coldstream Guards in October 1916, has been through the thick of the fighting in France, and was slightly wounded once previously. He only returned from 14 days furlough on March 23rd, having thus only been in France about a fortnight after that date when he was killed. He was only 21 years of age, and was previously employed at the Western Chronicle Office.
Son of Mr and Mrs Aldworth, Lyde Road, Yeovil.
Interred in Bucquoy Road Cemetery, Ficheux - Grave V.D. 4
Allen, Walter William
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 SEPTEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 6th - BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 6 October 1916:
Mrs. W Allen of 60 Eastland Road, has received official intimation that her husband, Private W. Allen of the Somerset Light Infantry, has been wounded in action, but does not state the nature of the wounds. Private Allen, who joined the Colours 12 months ago, was only in training for nine weeks prior to being drafted to France. His battalion has seen some of the most severe fighting, and he has experienced many narrow escapes, his steel helmet being dented with a piece of shrapnel, and on another occasion a bullet was stopped by a safety pin, which he was carrying in his pocket. A rumour has been prevalent in the town during the past fortnight that Private Allen was missing, and the receipt of the notification naturally relieved to a certain extent, the anxiety of his wife about his fate.
Pier and Face 2 A. Thiepval Memorial
Andrew, Richard Ewart
Age: 19
DIED 11 AUGUST 1917
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, ROYAL INNISKILLING FUSILIERS
The Western Gazette 5 October 1917:
Priv. R.E. Andrew, Inniskilling Fusiliers, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew, Goldcroft, Yeovil, is reported missing in the fighting on August 16th last. Previous to joining up in February of this year he was engaged at Messrs. Watts, Watts & Henley’s, solicitors, Princes Street. He was 19 years of age, was sent to France at the end of June, and was in the fighting line a month later.
Panel 70 to 72 Tyne Cot Memorial
Arnold, Dougls
Age: 20
DIED 3 MAY 1917
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 11 May 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. H. Arnold, of Goldcroft, have received a letter from a Bridgwater soldier informing them that their youngest son, Private Douglas Arnold, Somerset L.I., has been killed in action. Deceased joined up on January 1st, and was only 20 years of age.
The Western Gazette 1 June 1917:
Official notification has now been received that Private Douglas Arthur Arnold, Somerset L.L., younger son of Mr. and Mrs. H. Arnold, of 115 Goldcroft, was killed in action on May 3rd. Private Arnold, who was only 20 years of age, joined up about four months before, and had only been in the front line one day. His brother has been serving at the Front for 12 months. Mrs. Arnold has also received a letter from the officer commanding the Company to which Private Arnold belonged as follows:- “Dear Madam, - I very much regret that your son No. 203268 Priv. Arnold, was killed on the 3rd inst. He had not been out here very long, but he bore himself most gallantly. Please accept my sincere sympathy in your great sorrow.”
Bay 4 Arras Memorial
Axe, William James
Age: 20
DIED 19 AUGUST 1916
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 6 October 1916:
At the time of the death in action on August 19th last of Private J.W. Axe no particulars on his death were to hand. Mrs. Axe of Orchard Street, has since received another letter from the Commanding Officer of his regiment, informing her that her son was killed by shell fire on the date published. Private J.W. Axe who was the only son of the late postman Axe, was employed as a glove cutter at Messrs. Thring & Luffman’s factory, and joined the Army last April. Private J.W. Axe was of a kind-hearted and bright disposition and was loved and respected by his fellow workmates and friends who feel the deepest sympathy for his mother and sister in their sad loss. Mrs Axe and Miss Axe desire to express their sincere thanks to the numerous friends who have extended sympathy with them in their bereavement.
Son of Reginald and Elizabeth Axe, 11 Orchard Street, Yeovil
Interred in Authuile Military Cemetery - Grave F.12
Bailey, Frank
Age: Unknown
DIED 2 AUGUST 1917
PRIVATE 3rd BATTALION, GRENADIER GUARDS
The Western Gazette 17 August 1917:
Yet another Yeovilian to make the supreme sacrifice is Priv. Frank Bailey, of the – Batt. Grenadier Guards, the news of whose death was received by his mother, who resides at 21 Sparrow Lane, during last week, in the following letter: “It is my painful duty to inform you that a report has been received from the War Office notifying the death of Private F. Bailey of the Grenadier Guards, which occurred on August 2nd, as the result of wounds received in action. By His Majesty’s command I am to express the sympathy of the King and Queen with you, and also at the same time to express the regret of the Army Council at the soldier’s dearth in his country’s service - E.G.SHELLEY, Lieutenant.” Another letter received from his Adjutant, states:- “The Battalion attacked on the morning of July 31st, and during the advance a shell burst close to your son, wounding him in the left side. He was carried away on a stretcher as soon as possible, but died of his wounds on 2nd August in hospital at No. 47 Casualty Clearing Station. I will send you details of where he is buried as soon as I know them….Your son whilst he has been with the Battalion had proved himself a most willing and capable signaller, and I am sorry indeed that we should have lost him.” Prior to enlisting, about two years ago, deceased was employed at Messrs. Whitby’s glove factory, where he was well known and highly respected. He was also a prominent member of the old Football XI., and his many friends and associates in the town and district will regret to hear of his death. The late Private Bailey was also a member of the Whist League and Skittling Club. Much sympathy is felt for his mother and sister.
Interred in Dozinghem Military Cemetery - Grave II. G. 9
Bailey, Lionel John
Age: 24
DIED 11 APRIL 1918
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, COLDSTREAM GUARDS
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral - page 174
Son of Mr and Mrs William Bailey of Yeovil, and husband of Mrs Elsie Bailey, 2 Westlands, Yeovil
Interred in Etaples Military Cemetery - Grave XXXIII.G.14A.
Barnes, Frederick Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 1St/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 20 September 1918:
Mr. William Barnes of Earle Street, has received news that his second son, Private Fred Barnes, who was reported missing on 23rd November, 1917, is now presumed to have been killed on that date. Private Barnes who went to India with the Territorials in 1914, was later transferred to the Palestine Front.
Panel 17 Jerusalem Memorial
Belben, H J (jack)
Age: 23
DIED 16 JANUARY 1916
CORPORAL 1st/5th BATTALION, HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 28 January 1916:
Mr. A. Belben, of 22 Market Street, has been officially informed of the death of his eldest son, Corporal Jack Belben, on active service in Mesopotamia. Deceased, who was aged 23 years, had a promising career. He received his preliminary education at the Reckleford Council and the County Schools and then went to Gosport as an elementary school teacher, and whilst there joined the Territorials. He later went to Hartley University Training College and obtained a place out of five on the London County Council College list, receiving an appointment as an assistant master under the L.C.C. at the Daniel Street Council School. When war broke out he was in training on Salisbury Plain with the 5th Hants (his old College Company), and went with his Regiment to India. Deceased was transferred to the Persian Gulf in August last, and had been in several of the engagements on the River Tigris. Mr. Belben was notified on Thursday last, that his son was dangerously ill, and on Sunday received the notice of his death which occurred on January 16th, from a disease, the nature of which was not stated. The bereaved parents also received a message of sympathy from the King and Queen. Whilst resident in Yeovil, the late Corporal Belben, was connected with the Wesleyan cause, and his name appears on the Wesleyan Roll of Honour.
Son of Mr and Mrs Arthur Belben
Interred in Amara War Cemetery, Iraq - Grave I.B. 7
Bell, Edward Bertie
Age: 30
DIED 21 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE DORSET YEOMANRY (QUEEN’S OWN)
The Western Gazette 21 December 1917:
Mrs. H. Abbott, of Camborne Place has received official notification that her youngest son, Private H. Bell, of the Dorset Yeomanry, is reported wounded and missing since November 21st, whilst serving in Egypt. Private H. Bell enlisted soon after the outbreak of hostilities and has been at the Front for two years. Previous to joining up he was employed by Messrs. F. Dimon & Co.
Panel 3 Jerusalem Memorial
Bell, George
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 OCTOBER 1918
PRIVATE 10th BATTALION, WORCESTER REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 23 August 1918:
Private G. Bell, of the Worcesters, who home is at 22 Everton Road, was reported as missing since March 22nd. It has now been definitely ascertained that he is a prisoner of war in Germany.
The Western Gazette 13 September 1918:
Mrs. George Bell, of 22 Everton Road, Yeovil, has received a postcard from her husband, Private George Bell, of the Worcester Regiment, to the effect that he is a prisoner of war in Germany. The postcard is dated June 23rd, and says that he is in the best of health, and keeping alright, but, of course, being a prisoner of war, is not very nice - it is “not like home.” They are short of tobacco and cigarettes. Private Bell was formerly head boots at the Mermaid Hotel, and writes from Parchim (Meckl.)
It seems that Private George Bell died a prisoner of war on 23 October 1918, and his name is inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Interred in Mons Communal Cemetery - Grave X.A.11
Bennett, Edgar George
Age: Unknown
DIED 31 JULY 1917
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, LINCOLNSHIRE REGIMENT
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral - page 174
Voormezeele Enclosure No.3 - Grave XV.G.8
Bidgood, John James
Age: Unknown
DIED 6 JULY 1915
CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 30 July 1915:
Another Yeovilian to die in defence of his country’s honour is Corporal J. Bidgood, of the 1st Somerset Light Infantry, who was killed by a piece of shell on the morning of July 6th last. Corporal Bidgood went to the Front in August last, and has been in practically every action in which his Regiment has been engaged up to the time of his death. He was wounded during the latter part of last year, but made an early recovery at a base Hospital, and was soon back in the firing line. At a later period, the deceased soldier was reported wounded and missing, but this happily proved incorrect. During the early part of January he distinguished himself by rescuing wounded from a mined trench under fire, for which he was recommended to the Divisional Commander by his commanding officer (an incident which was referred to in the “Western Gazette” at the time). His parents treasure as a lasting memento of their soldier son, a card which he sent home, which he had received from Major-General H.F.M. Wilson informing him that his officer’s recommendation had been read with much pleasure. Although there was no official corroboration of Corporal Bidgood’s death till within the last few days, his parents who live at 12 Ilchester Road, were made aware of that distressing fact about a fortnight ago in a letter received from Sergeant W. Hansford, of the deceased’s company. In a second letter the sergeant extended the sympathy of the men of the company with the bereaved parents, and paid a high tribute to their son’s bravery. Corporal Bidgood, although he had seen so much service, had received no leave since going to the Front, but he was anticipating a short visit home this month, as the men of his Regiment were being granted a furlough. It was thought possible that he might be able to celebrate his 22nd birthday - and, incidentally, the completion of four year’s service in the Army - at home, and his death therefore, came as a great shock to his parents. General sympathy is expressed for Mr. and Mrs. Bidgood in their great loss as their son was well known in the town.
Interred in Talana Farm Cemetery - Grave I.D.6.
Billen, James Herbert
Age: 30
DIED 24 APRIL 1917
ABLE SEAMAN HOWE BATTALION, ROYAL NAVAL DIVISION
The Western Gazette 25 May 1917:
Private J. Billen, of the R.N.D., is reported as “missing” whilst serving in France.
The news was conveyed by a chaplain, who, in a letter to the wife of Private Billen who resides at 42, Percy Road, expressed the sincere sympathy of the men of the Company with her in her time of deep suspense, and trusted that the news of his safety would soon be received by her. Private Billen is held in high esteem by many friends. Sympathetic allusion was made to the sad event at the Salvation Army Temple, on Sunday, Private Billen, prior to enlisting, being a member of the band. He was formerly employed by Messrs. Blake and Fox as a staker, and had been in France about two months.
The Western Gazette 14 December 1917:
Mrs. H. Billen, 42 Percy Road, has received the official notification, from the Record Office of the death in action of her husband, Able Seaman J.H. Billen.
Husband of Mrs Hilda Billen
Bay 1. Arras Memorial
Bindon, William John
Age: 22
DIED 28 APRIL 1917
LANCE CORPORAL 8th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 23 May 1917:
Information has been received that Lance-Corpl. J. Bindon, oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. E. Bindon, 28 Beer Street, has been killed in action in France. He has been in the Army four years and served with his regiment in the earlier battles of the war. He was invalided home, and some time ago went out to France again, where he was killed. Prior to enlisting Lance-Corpl. Bindon was employed by Mr. Llewellyn, fruiterer, &c., of High Street.
The Western Gazette 15 June 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. E Bindon, of 28 Beer Street, Yeovil has been informed that their eldest son, Lance-Corporal W.J. Bindon, of the Somerset Light Infantry, was killed in action in France on April 28th. The following letter has been received from his Company Sergeant-Major:- “I regret to tell you that “Jack” was killed on 28th of April, during our last attack. He is mourned by the whole of the boys here who knew him for he was a great favourite with everyone. He did not suffer in the least. He was hit on the side of his head with a piece of shrapnel, which caused instantaneous death. Kindly accept my deepest sympathy and also the sympathy of the whole of C Company.” The deceased soldier, who belonged to the Regular Army, having served four years, went to France in August 1914, subsequently taking part in the battles of Le Cateau, the Marne, the Aisne, and Ypres, being invalided home from the latter suffering from bronchitis. On returning to the Depot he was transferred to the – Battalion Somerset Light Infantry, and went to France some two years ago. During his stay in France he had several narrow escapes, having been wounded twice, and also having being twice buried. Lance-Corporal Bindon was 22 years of age, and was, prior to enlisting, employed by Mr. Llewellyn, fruiterer &c., of High Street. Much sympathy is felt for his parents and family (there being another son serving) in their sad bereavement.
Bay 4. Arras Memorial
Blake, Herbert Charles
Age: 29
DIED 25 DECEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, COLDSTREAM GUARDS
The Western Gazette 5 January 1917:
The sad news has been received by Mr. E Blake, of 1 Smith’s Terrace, Eastland Road, of the death in action, on Christmas morning, of his second son, Priv. H. Blake, of the Coldstream Guards. Private Blake, who was a Reservist, was called to the Colours at the early part of the war, and had previously been wounded. Private Blake was 29 years of age and always of a bright and cheery disposition.
The Western Gazette 12 January 1917:
The sad news has recently been received that Priv. H. Blake of the Coldstream Guards, son of Mr. H. Blake of 1 Smith’s terrace, Eastland Road, has been killed in action. The following letter has been received from an officer in his regiment:-
“I much regret to say that your son has died of wounds. He was wounded by a German machine-gun while entering the reserve trench on Christmas-eve and was shot through the abdomen. I can’t tell you how much I sympathise with you in your great loss. Your son was an excellent soldier, and will be greatly missed, as well as being a great loss to the Battalion. The Commanding Officer wishes me to send you his condolences.”
Interred in Grove Town Cemetery, Meaulte - Grave II.G.5.
Blake, Sidney Reginald
Age: 19
DIED 5 SEPTEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 20th BATTALION, THE LONDON REGIMENT
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral - page 174
Interred in Peronne Communal Cemetery Extension - Grave III.O.12.
Son of Edwin and Mary Blake, 25 Woodland Grove, Yeovil
Blake, William George
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st/5th BATTALION, DEVONSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 7 December 1917:
Mr. Blake of 1, Smith’s Terrace, Newtown, has received an official notification from the War Office to the effect that his son, Private William George Blake of the - Battalion, Devon Regiment, has died of wounds in Palestine. Private Blake who was 19 years of age, joined the Army in February this year and had been three months in Palestine. Before joining up he was employed as a glove-cutter’s apprentice at Messrs. Pittard & Hamblen’s factory, Sherborne Road. Mr. Blake had four sons serving their country, one of them being killed about a year ago, and this leaves two still serving their country in France. Much sympathy is extended to the bereaved family.
Interred in Ramleh War Cemetery - Grave H.44.
Blandford, Colin W
Age: Unknown
DIED 25 AUGUST 1916
LANCE CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
(attd., WILTSHIRE REGIMENT)
The Western Gazette 1 September 1916:
The sad news has been received of the death in action of Lance-Corporal C.W. Blandford of the Wiltshire Regiment. Lance-Corporal Blandford, who was 28 years of age, and had only been in France about six weeks, joined the Somersets in February, but going on active service he was transferred to the Wilts. Lance-Corporal Blandford was partner with Mr. Austin, trading as A. Genge in the drapery establishment, Princes Street, and his death will be keenly felt by those connected with this business, with whom he had worked in a most harmonious manner. Of a genial disposition he was liked by those with whom he came into contact, and the news of his death came as a great shock to his friends.
Interred in Forceville Communal Cemetery and Extension
Plot 2. Row E. Grave 4.
Bowerman, Stanley
Age: Unknown
DIED 13 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st/1st DORSET YEOMANRY (QUEEN’S OWN)
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral
P.36. Ramleh War Cemetery
Brown, Richard
Age: Unknown
DIED 28 APRIL 1917
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 20 July 1917:
Information has been received stating that Private R. Brown, of the Somerset Light Infantry, who was reported missing some time ago, has been killed in action. Private Brown, before enlisting, was employed at the Gasworks and was 39 years of age. He had been in the army two years, out of which one was spent in France. He was very popular amongst his friends, and much sympathy is felt for the relatives.
Bay 4. Arras Memorial
Brutton, Robert Hall
Age: 53
DIED 15 JANUARY 1916
MAJOR 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 21 January 1916:
The news came to the town of Yeovil on Monday morning, with startling suddenness that Major Robert H. Brutton, of 15 The Park, had died whilst on active service with his Regiment in India. On the previous morning the family had received an intimation by cable that the Major was dangerously ill, and the prayers of the congregation of the Parish Church with which the family have for years been actively connected, were asked on his behalf, but the cable the following morning, announcing that he was dead, but gave no details of his illness, was a great shock to the town and district where he was a popular figure and so much respected.
Major R.H. Brutton, who was 53 years of age, was the son of the late Mr. Joseph Brutton, and practically all his life had been connected with the firm of Messrs. Joseph Brutton & Sons, brewers, of Princes Street. When the late Mr. Joseph Brutton retired through ill-health 23 years ago and went to live at Eastbourne, Major Brutton took over the managing directorship, and successfully carried it on till he left on the outbreak of the war. A man of unassuming character, he was generally popular, and whilst he took no active part in public administrative affairs, he gave up much of his leisure time in public service, and his enthusiastic work with the Volunteer and Territorial Forces will always be remembered. He was for many years an officer in the local unit, formerly E Company of the 2nd V.B. Somerset Light Infantry, and latterly under the Territorial scheme, the 5th (T) Battalion of that famous Regiment. When war broke out the Battalion, in which he had attained the rank of major, was in training on Salisbury Plain, and was mobilised. After a period of strenuous training, during which the Major was awarded the Territorial Decoration, the Battalion proceeded, with the others of the Wessex Division, to India, where it had done much hard work.
The late Major, who was a bachelor, was a great sportsman, and took an interest in agricultural matters, always being an active figure at the shows of the Yeovil Agricultural Society. He was a regular follower of the Blackmore Vale Hounds, and very fond of shooting. Some years ago when the Yeovil and District Rifle League was a live institution he took a prominent part both on the executive and as a competitor with his Company’s team. For many years he took an active part in local cricket, and was at various times President of the Yeovil Club, Captain, and a prominent player.
His political sympathies were with the Unionists and the Hon. Aubrey Herbert, M.P., had no more enthusiastic supporter. He was closely associated with the Constitutional Club, and served as president; in fact he held that office at the time he left for India. He was a churchman, and had acted as sidesman at the Parish Church.
Thus, whilst there is the knowledge that the Major is included in the gallant band that have made the supreme sacrifice for King and country, the utmost sympathy is expressed to the bereaved relatives.
The Western Gazette 18 February 1916:
The funeral of the late Major R. H. Brutton of the 1/5th Battalion, Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry), took place at Ambala on January 15th and was of an imposing military character.
The Special Battalion Orders issued by the Commanding Officer, Lieut.-Colonel E. F. Cooke-Hurle, were as follows:-
“The Commanding Officer regrets to have to announce the death of Major Robert Hall Brutton, at the Station Hospital this day of pernicious malaria. Major Brutton joined the 2nd V.B. Somerset Light Infantry on the 4th May 1895, and was promoted Captain on the 28th May 1902. On the formation of the Territorial Force in the 1st April 1908, he became a Captain in the 5th Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry, and was promoted Major on the 22nd November 1910. The King was graciously pleased to confer on him the Territorial Decoration in the London Gazette on 10th November 1915. The funeral of the late Major R. H. Brutton will take place tomorrow morning, the procession leaving the Station Hospital at nine a.m. The escort and firing party will be under the command of Major C. B. Kite, and will be formed of 50 N.C.O.’s and men under a subaltern officer from each Company. They will parade in drill order, carrying three rounds of blank, on the Church Parade Ground at 8.30 a.m. The remainder of the Battalion will also parade at 8.30 a.m. on the Church Parade Ground under their own officers in walking out dress. Officers will wear swords. All officers and warrant officers wear mourning in uniform for one month from this date except at route marching, company training and field manoeuvres. - J. DUKE, Captain, Acting Adjutant, 14th Batt. Somerset Light Infantry.”
Face 4. Kirkee 1914-1918 Memorial
Son of Joseph and Elizabeth L Brutton of Yeovil
Burbage, Frederick James
Age: 23
DIED 30 MAY 1916
ORDINARY SEAMAN H.M.S. “ESSEX”
The Western Gazette 9 June 1916:
Townspeople generally will regret to learn that a number of Yeovilians were on the various ships sunk on Wednesday last in the battle off the coast of Jutland….
………………The parents of Frederick James Burbage, who resides at 6 Addlewell Lane, received on Friday last, a notification stating that he was drowned whilst in action during the naval battle. Before joining the Navy he worked at Messrs. Aplin & Barrett’s. Deceased, who was 23 years of age had been in the Navy for about two years…………….
Plymouth Naval Memorial
Son of James and Elizabeth Burbage, 6 Addlewell Lane, Yeovil
Burbage, Harry Henry
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 JANUARY 1918
PRIVATE 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Interred in Cairo War Memorial Cemetery - Grave O.100.
Burgess, Albert Ernest
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 AUGUST 1917
SERGEANT 7th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 31 August 1817:
Unofficial information has been received that Sergeant E. Burgess, of the Somerset Light Infantry has been killed in action whilst serving in France. Prior to enlisting, the non-commissioned officer was a respected local postman, and is well-known in Yeovil. An Army Reservist, he was called to the Colours on almost the initial day of the war, and he soon received a promotion, till ultimately he held his present rank. After many months of active service in France, he was temporarily discharged from the service, being time expired, but he soon received another call to rejoin the Forces, and, after several months further active service, news of his death has been received from a local soldier now serving with the Somersets in France. Profound sympathy has been extended to the wife and two young children.
Panel 41 to 42 and 163A Tyne Cot Memorial
Burrows, Stanley
Age: 24
DIED 31 MAY 1916
CORPORAL ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY
H.M.S. ‘INDEFATIGABLE’
The Western Gazette 9 June 1916:
Townspeople generally will regret to learn that a number of Yeovilians were on the various ships sunk on Wednesday last in the battle off the coast of Jutland……… Mr. and Mrs. H. Burrows, of West Hendford, has received an official intimation that their only son, Corporal S. Burrows (R.M.L.I.), of H.M.S. Indefatigable, was amongst the drowned. Corpl. Burrows joined the Navy in 1910 and was 24 years of age…………
Panel 18 Plymouth Naval Memorial
Bussell, William
Age: 30
DIED 1 JULY 1916
PRIVATE 9th BATTALION, DEVONSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 21 July 1816:
His many friends in Yeovil and district will hear with feelings of deep regret the news has been received that Private William Bussell of the Devonshire Regiment, whose father resides at 19 Manor Road, has been killed in action in the recent advance. Private Bussell joined the Colours some time after the commencement of hostilities, and was in training twelve months before going on active service. Soon after his first spell in the trenches an accident occurred to his knee, which necessitated his removal to hospital and in the meantime his original battalion was drafted elsewhere, and he was attached to another. He had been on duty in the trenches, on and off, since he had been on active service. His letters to friends of his experiences, which were cheery and interesting, always contained a note of modesty. Private Bussell was employed in the clerical department of the “Western Gazette” for over 17 years where he was held in the highest esteem by his colleagues. He was captain of the office cricket team the same year as war broke out, and was an active member of the club for many years, taking a great interest in other sports. Priv. Bussell was also a member of the Conservative Club, and was secretary of the Junior Imperial League for some time. By his general manner he endeared himself with those with whom he came into contact.
Interred in Devonshire Cemetery, Mametz - Grave B.6.
Campbell, William John
Age: 21
DIED 29 APRIL 1918
PRIVATE 2nd/5th BATTALION, GLOUCESTER REGIMENT
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Interred in St Venant-Robecq Road British Cemetery
Grave IV.F.12.
Channing, Arthur William
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 FEBRUARY 1917
CORPORAL ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY
1st ROYAL MARINE BATTALION ROYAL NAVAL DIVISION
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Interred in Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension
Grave VI.A.32.
Chant, Bertie Thomas
Age: 21
DIED 1 JULY 1916
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 4 August 1916:
Mr. and Mrs. Chant, of 45 Queen Street, having received no news of their son, Private B. Chant, of the Somerset L.I., since the first day of the Great Advance, wrote to the Record Office and have been informed that he is missing. Private Chant, who is 21 years of age, has been in the army four and a half years, and has been at the Front since the commencement of hostilities.
The Western Gazette 1 September 1916:
Mr. and Mrs. Chant, of 45 Queen Street, Yeovil, recently received the sad intelligence from the War Office that their second son, Private B. Chant, of the Somerset L.I., was killed in action on the first day of the great advance. Private Chant was previously reported missing. Accompanying the notification was a Royal message of sympathy. In a letter received by the bereaved parents from one of his comrades it was stated that he was shot through the chest just after the attack, and death was almost instantaneous. Private Chant who was 21 years of age had been in the Army four and a half years. A letter received from the Sergeant-Major of the Company stated that Private Chant had been killed on the 1st July during an attack on the German trenches. His body was recovered and buried in the military cemetery. Much sympathy is felt for the parents who have two other sons serving, one in India and the other in France.
Interred in Sucrerie Military Cemetery, Colin Camps
Grave I.D.26.
Chant, Frederick Ernest
Age: Unknown
PRIVATE HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 19 November 1920:
The funeral took place at the Cemetery on Friday of Mr. Frederick Chant, whose death occurred at his home, 43 Camborne Grove, a few days previously from the effects of gas poisoning. The deceased enlisted in the early months of 1915 in the Hampshire Regiment, and saw service in France. He was invalided out in May, 1918, suffering from the effects of gas poisoning disability, and remained under treatment by the Ministry of Pensions almost to the time of his death. The funeral was conducted by the Rev T.G. Phillips (Wesleyan minister) and the bearers were members of the National Federation of Discharged and Demobilised Soldiers and Sailors. The Sons of Temperance were also represented. The family mourners included the deceased’s wife and three children.
Interred Yeovil Cemetery on 12 November 1920 - Grave B 2686
Chapman, William James
Age: Unknown
DIED 4 OCTOBER 1917
PRIVATE
1st BATTALION, QUEEN’S OWN (ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT)
The Western Gazette 30 November 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. Chapman, of 126 Huish, have received a notification to the effect that their son, Lance-Corpl. William J. Chapman, of the ---- Battalion, Royal West Kent Regiment, has been missing after an engagement on the 4th October. Lance-Corporal Chapman, who was in his 20th year, joined up on September 25th last year, and had been three weeks in France. Another son, who joined on the outbreak of war is now in India.
Interred in Hooge Crater Cemetery - Grave IV.J.10.
Chislett, Jesse
Age: 30
DIED 12 APRIL 1918
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, WORCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 3 May 1918:
Private J. Chislett, of the Worcester Regiment, whose parents reside at 1, Camborne Street, was killed in action in France earlier this month during the heavy fighting on the Western Front. At the outbreak of hostilities, Private Chislett was serving in the Territorials and at the time of his death he had been in H.M. service for about eight years. He was drafted to France on February 8th this year, and had only served in that theatre of war about two months when he was killed. The deceased has four other brothers serving in H.M. Forces, viz:- Private Wm. H. Chislett (R.F.A., France), Driver Emmanuel Chislett (Salonica), Privates Nathaniel (India) and A. Chislett (who has been wounded four times in France).
Panel 5 Ploegsteert Memorial
Chudleigh, Jack Eustace
Age: 19
DIED 19 SEPTEMBER 1916
MILITARY MEDAL, PRIVATE 1St/14th LONDON REGIMENT(LONDON SCOTTISH
The Western Gazette 27 October 1916:
Sympathy is felt for Mr. and Mrs. Chudleigh, of Braeside, Grove Avenue, Yeovil, in the loss of their son Private J.E. Chudleigh, who has been killed in action in France. “Jack” as he was familiarly known amongst a host of friends in Yeovil, was only 19 years of age. He joined the London Scottish about eight months ago, previous to which he belonged to the Yeovil Volunteers, joining at the start, and holding the rank of section commander, and his genial disposition and bonhomie made him exceedingly popular in the platoon, amongst the members of which his memory will be long cherished, From an early age until his voice broke, Jack Chudleigh was a chorister at the parish church, and was one of the most popular members of the choir. He was also a member of the Yeovil Male Voice Choir. He was a lad of fine physique, and the splendid tribute paid to the deceased by his Commanding Officer and the knowledge that their son had won a coveted distinction on the field of battle, not long before he paid the supreme sacrifice, will no doubt afford some consolation to the parents in their hour of grief.
The letter received from the deceased’s Commanding Officer gives the reason for the long delay in giving his parents the sad information. The writer adds:- “On the evening of September 19th this Company had an exceedingly difficult task to perform, which necessitated the whole Company moving across an area sniped by the enemy. Captain H.L. Lyer, who was leading and in command of the Company, was the first to be hit, and was dangerously wounded. It fell to me then to “carry on.” Your son was acting as ‘runner’ to me, and was wounded soon after we started. As I was by him I know that the wound was not serious, for he left me to find his way to the aid post, and I naturally reported him wounded. After that date we took part in many other such enterprises and attacks, and it was only at the beginning of this month that your son’s platoon sergeant handed me the pay-book and pocket-book belonging to your son. This was given to him by a man, a -----company stretcher bearer, who was then down at the base for a rest. This man had had them handed to him by a perfect stranger to him telling him they had been taken from your son’s body. No other information was given but that man stated your son was certainly dead. This company stretcher bearer returned only yesterday, and it was then that he gave me the latter information, because I had before hoped that your son’s jacket had been taken off to dress the wound, and these articles were later found by someone. I have made enquiries for the man who originally found your son’s body, but can get no trace of him, and can only conclude that man has also since become a casualty.
“I cannot speak too highly of your late son. On many occasions he carried messages through difficult and dangerous parts, and went out on patrols and reconnaissance work often because he was found to be so reliable, and showed great courage on all occasions. It is feared that on his way to the medical aid post, he must have been hit again, this causing his death. He was a great favourite in the Company, and Capt. Lyer thought no end of him, in fact he recommended him for an award, and I am proud to tell you that the Military Medal was awarded to him a short while ago, though too late, unfortunately for your gallant son to wear. Assuring you of the fullest sympathy of all your son’s comrades and officers, and trusting that the knowledge of his conspicuous bearing and good-hearted cheerfulness may be of comfort to you. – E.D. COLE, Lieut. Officer commanding --- Company --- London Scottish.”
At the parade of the Yeovil Volunteers last evening sympathetic allusion was made to the death of Private Chudleigh, and, as a mark of respect to the memory of the deceased, the “Last Post” was sounded by Bugler Newton, the platoon standing at the “present.”
Mr. Chudleigh has another son in the Army, Trooper Leslie Chudleigh of the West Somerset Yeomanry, who joined up in 1914, was wounded in the Dardanelles and in hospital for three months, and who is now on service in Egypt.
Pier and Face 9C and 13C Thiepval Memorial
Clements, Arthur James
Age: 29
DIED 19 FEBRUARY 1916
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 25 February 1916:
News has been received in the town of the death from wounds of Private A. J. Clements of the 1st Somerset Light Infantry, attached 6th Battalion. Deceased was a Yeovilian, and his father at one time resided in Newtown. When War broke out he was working on the G.W.R. at Swindon, as was called up as a Reservist going to France with the 1st Battalion, Somersets. He was wounded two months later, but recovering was again sent to the Front, and attached to the 6th Battalion. Official information was received last week that he had been wounded in the head, and the news of his death at a base hospital came to hand a few days later.
Etaples Military Cemetery - Grave VI.C.8A.
Collins, Robert Rendell
Age: 23
DIED 24 DECEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 1St/4th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery - Grave XX.F.13. Son of Walter Rendell Collins and Emily Charlotte Collins of 4 Wellington Street, Yeovil
Coombs, William Theodore
Age: 27
DIED 30 AUGUST 1918
CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, DEVONSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 20 September 1918:
Mrs. Coombs of 26 Everton Road, has received the sad intelligence that her son, Corpl. W Coombs of the Devon Regiment, was killed in action in Flanders on August 31st. The deceased was formerly employed as a clerk at Messrs. Aplin & Barrett, and previous to being transferred to the Infantry served in the Army Pay Corps. He had been in France about two months. The following letter has been received by Mrs. Coombs from the Commander of his Company - Dear Mrs. Coombs, I am very sorry to have to inform you of the death in action of your son, No. 40858 Corporal Coombs. He was killed on August 30th while taking part in an attack. Your son had not been with us very long, but had managed to win the respect of all officers and men of his Company.
Panel 4. Vis-En-Artois Memorial
Cooper, George Henry
Age: 33
DIED 19 NOVEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Pier and Face 2 A. Thiepval Memorial
Husband of Elsie Ellen Cooper of “Devanha” 40 Sparrow Road, Yeovil.
Counter, Walter Gill
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 SEPTEMBER 1914
PRIVATE ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY
H.M.S. “ABOUKIR”
The Western Gazette 2 October 1914:
Private Walter Counter, a reservist of the R.M.L.L., a son of Mr. and Mrs. Counter of 2 Clarence Place, Huish, Yeovil, was on board H.M.S. “Aboukir” at the time the vessel was torpedoed in the North Sea, and as his name does not appear amongst the lists of those saved, much anxiety is felt by his friends. Private Counter, who had been living in London with his wife, joined the R.M.L.I. at the time he was single and living in Yeovil. He served on the Endymion at the time that ship, with others, escorted the Russian battleships to Tangiers after they had fired on British fishing vessels off the Dogger Bank. He also saw service on H.M.S.’s Canopus and Antrim, but on the outbreak of war he was called up for the “Aboukir.” His mother yesterday received a letter from the Accountant General of the Navy regretting to have to inform that Private Counter’s name “does not appear in the list of survivors in this department up to the present.”
Panel 7. Chatham War Memorial
Cox, Ernest George
Age: 18
DIED 31 MAY 1916
ORDINARY SEAMAN ROYAL NAVY
H.M.S. “BLACK PRINCE”
The Western Gazette 9 June 1916:
Townspeople generally will regret to learn that a number of Yeovilians were on the various ships sunk on Wednesday last in the battle off the coast of Jutland and, amongst them, being Able-seaman E. Cox of the Black Prince, whose relatives reside in Camborne Street………..
Panel 12 Plymouth Naval Memorial
Crouch, James Henry
Age: 34
DIED 31 MAY 1918
PRIVATE ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY
1st ROYAL MARINE BATTALION
ROYAL NAVAL DIVISION
The Western Gazette 28 June 1918:
Mrs. J.H. Crouch, of 14 Gladstone Terrace, St. Michael’s Avenue, has received notification from the Record Office, Royal Naval Division, that her husband, Private James Henry Crouch of the - Royal Marine Battalion, was killed in action on May 31st. Lieutenant F. Dean, writing to the bereaved widow states that Private Crouch was instantly killed by a shell on the night of May 31st whilst asleep. He was batman to the sergeant-major, who was also killed at the same time. The Commanding Officer and all ranks joined in sending their sympathy. “Your husband did good work out here,” he concludes, “and died a soldier’s death alongside his master, whom he served faithfully.” - The late Private Crouch was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. G. Crouch, who formerly lived in Paradise Row, Huish, but now reside in London. He was formerly employed at Messrs. Aplin & Barrett’s and it is a pathetic coincidence that he was killed on his 34th birthday. He leaves a widow and four children aged 12, 9, 7 and 5.
Interred in Forceville Communal Cemetery and Extension
Plot 4. Row D. Grave 9.
Curtis, Edward
Age: Unknown
DIED 25 SEPTEMBER 1915
LANCE CORPORAL 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 1 October 1915:
During the early part of the week rumours were in circulation as to the proposed heavy casualties of a certain Somerset Battalion, which was known to have been in the trenches on Friday. The careless repetition of them caused much distress to relatives and friends of men who without any certain information were said to have been killed or wounded and of whom no news had been received. Careful enquiries failed to trace the source of these rumours. It was even said that Colonel Marsh had a full list of the killed and had been charged with the duty of breaking the news to the relatives, but Colonel Marsh told our representative that he had no such list, and moreover knew of no such heavy casualties in the Somerset Battalion.
Letters since received in the town by wives and relatives of men serving with the Battalion mentioned, and written in the trenches on Sunday and Monday, mention the death of Lance-Corporal Curtis, but do not speak of any other Yeovil man being hit. In fact one of the letters contains the phrase:- “All the Yeovil boys are well, except poor old Curtis.”
Unfortunately, however, it is true that Lance-Corporal E. Curtis, of 2 Eastland Road, who was recently wounded in the face, but made a rapid recovery, and was able to resume his place in the firing line, has been killed. The sad intelligence was conveyed in a letter sent home by a comrade of the deceased who was fighting by his side, and is all the more painful as he was expected home on leave this week. Deceased, who was a man of fine physique, was connected with the old Volunteer Force, and also the Territorial Force for many years, and joined the National Reserve just previous to the outbreak of war. By trade he was a glove-cutter, employed at Messrs. Ewens & Johnson’s, and also worked in the publishing department of the “Western Gazette” on Thursday afternoons. A widow and two boys are left to mourn the loss of a brave husband and father.
Panel 21. Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial
Dade, Henry George
Age: 23
DIED 31 AUGUST 1916
CORPORAL 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 22Sepetmber 1916:
Official news has been received from the War Office by Mrs Dade of Southville, that her son Corpl. H. Dade, died on August 31st of ptomaine poisoning in India. Corpl. Dade, who was 23 years of age, had been seven years in the Somerset L.I. Territorials. When war broke out he was called up, and was amongst the first draft of Yeovil men to leave for India. Corporal Dade was a very popular figure in Yeovil football circles, having played at different times for several local teams. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved parents.
Dehli 1914-1918 War Memorial
Davey, Reginald Frank
Age: Unknown
DIED 5 SEPTEMBER 1918
DRIVER 1st DIVISION AMMUNITION TRAIN
CANADIAN FIELD ARTILLERY
The Western Gazette 20 September 1918:
Mr. and Mrs. Davey, of 42 Sherborne Road, have received a letter from Captain Hugh M. Dunlop, of the Canadians, informing them that their second son, Private Reginald Frank Davey (Canadians) was killed in action on the 5th inst. but no official confirmation has yet been received from the War Office. The writer expressed sympathy with the parents in their sad bereavement, and added:- “He was asleep with others after a hard day, in a dug-out, when an enemy shell hit the dug-out, killing him instantly.” The late Private Davey, who was well-known in the district, went to Canada early in 1913, where he was managing a farm in Ontario, but in November 1915, he left his position to fight for his country, and joined the Canadians. He had previously suffered from shell shock, and before being drafted overseas sustained a broken leg and was in hospital in England for seven months. The deceased had taken part in many severe engagements since he went to France over two years ago, and on one occasion was buried by a shell for some time before he could be extricated by his comrades. The deceased was 26 years of age.
Interred in H.A.C. Cemetery, Ecoust-St. Mein - Grave VI.F.11.
Davey, Thomas Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 8 MAY 1915
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, YORK AND LANCASTER REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 23 July 1915:
Private Thomas Charles Davey, of the 1st York and Lancashire Regiment, fourth son of Mr. and Mrs. John Davey, of 2 Ivy Cottages, Union Street, who on June 12th was recorded as being wounded has since been classified with the wounded and missing. No tidings have been received of him since he is believed to have been wounded. Some light seems to be thrown on the matter, however, by a letter written by Private H. Carter, of the same regiment to Private Davey’s eldest brother at Battersea in which he states:- “I have made enquiry about your brother, and from what his chum told me he was wounded in the attack we made on the night of May 8th just in front of the German trenches; I think in the right leg. In any case it was a leg hit. As we had to fall back on our own trenches there is not the least doubt he was taken prisoner the following morning.”
The Western Gazette 8 October 1915:
Mr. J. Davey, of 2 Ivy Cottages, Union Street, father of Private Thomas Charles Davey (1st York and Lancashire Regiment), who is wounded and missing, has received a report from the Red Cross Society, sent through the Germany Embassy in Berlin, to the effect that there is no information concerning his son at the present time.
Panel 36 and 55 Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial
Davis, John
Age: Unknown
DIED 3 SEPTEMBER 1914
PRIVATE 1St BATTALION, WILTSHIRE REGIMENT
A photograph of Private John Davis, Yeovil, is published in the Roll of Honour in the Western Gazette Almanac 1915.
Interred in Mons Communal Cemetery - Grave IX.E.14.
Deacon, Charles Mark
Age: Unknown
DIED 29 AUGUST 1918
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, ROYAL BERKSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 13 September 1918:
Much regret has been expressed with Mr. and Mrs. George Deacon, of Grove Cottage, Preston Road, in the death of their son Private Charles Mark Deacon, of the Royal Berkshire Regiment who was killed in action on the afternoon of the 29th August by a shell. The late Priv. Deacon, who would have been 20 years of age tomorrow (Saturday), was sent to France in October 1917, and before joining up was employed as an under-gardener by Mr. Whitmarsh Mayo at Swallowcliffe. In the course of a letter expressing sympathy with Mr. and Mrs. Deacon and family, the officer commanding the platoon of which Private Deacon was a member, says:- “Your son had always shown himself to be a good soldier, and I assure you I feel his death very much. It is a distressing loss to the platoon, of which he was always one of the brightest members. Please get a little consolation from the fact that he died doing his duty while attacking the enemy, and that he suffered no pain, the death being instantaneous.” Lance Corporal Beavis, deceased’s chum, writing to Mrs. Deacon says:- “The boys in the platoon wish me to convey their deepest regret and sympathy to you and your family in your great loss. I have known Charlie for some time since I joined this Battalion in February. He was well liked by all, and will be missed by all of us as a good chum and friend. He was buried by the boys of the platoon, and a cross was put over his grave.”
Panel 7 Vis-En-Artois Memorial
Denmead, Thomas John Ambrose (jack)
Age: Unknown
DIED 19 APRIL 1917
LANCE CORPORAL 2nd/4th BATTALION, GLOUCESTER REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 27 April 1917:
News reached Yeovil last week that Private Jack Denmead of the Gloster Regiment, eldest son of Mr. Tom Denmead, of Newton Road, had died following an operation at a military hospital at Paisley. Private Denmead, who was a little over 20 years of age, was employed at Messrs. Petters’ Ltd., ultimately going to France with his Battalion. He was brought home sick some months ago, and has been in hospital ever since. The body was brought to Yeovil from Paisley on Friday, the coffin being covered with a number of beautiful floral tributes, including tokens from “Comrades” Royal Alexandra Infirmary (Paisley), the medical staff, the nursing staff, patients in Ward 6, and from the maids of the hospital. There was also a choice floral emblem from the staff of the Nautilus Works, of Messrs. Petters Ltd., and many floral tributes from sympathising friends. The funeral took place on Monday afternoon at the Cemetery, the Rev. G.C. Seymour (curate of the Parish Church) officiating. The principal mourners were:- Mr. and Mrs. T. Denmead (father and mother), Messrs. W. Denmead and H. and F. Gummer, (uncles), Miss A. Denmead (aunt), and Mr. Bert Evans, Merthyr Tydvil (cousin).
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery – Grave A. 491.
Dicks, Harold
Age: 27
DIED 16 AUGUST 1917
CORPORAL 7th BATTALION, DUKE OF CORNWALL’S LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 21 September 1917:
Corporal Harold Dicks of the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, has been officially reported wounded and missing, but letters which have been received from officers and comrades leave little room for doubt but that he was killed on August 16th near Langemarck and was buried on the field. He was the youngest son of Sergeant A.J. Dicks, of 30 Crofton Avenue. He was recommended for bravery, and made King’s Corporal the first day he went into action and had been at the Front for a year. He previously carried on business as a stationer in Sherborne Road.
Panel 80 to 82 and 163A Tyne Cot Memorial
Diment, Ernest Reginald
Age: 29
DIED 31 MAY 1916
PETTY OFFICER ROYAL NAVY
H.M.S. “INDEFATIGABLE”
The Western Gazette 9 June 1916:
Another Yeovil man who went down with the Indefatigable was First Class Petty Officer N.S. Ernest Diment, son of Mr. and Mrs. Diment, of 39 Camborne Street. He was married in Yeovil about three months ago. Deceased had been in the Navy for some years.
Panel 11 Plymouth Naval Memorial
Donovan, Albert George
Age: Unknown
DIED 1 NOVEMBER 1918
MILITARY MEDAL
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 27 September 1918:
Private A.J. Donovan, Somerset L.I., son of Mrs. Mansfield, of 7 Quidham Place, Vicarage Street, has been congratulated on his gallant conduct and has been presented with an illuminated certificate signed the General commanding the Division.
Interred in St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen - Grave S.II.JJ.18.
Earl, John Charles
Age: 32
DIED 6 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, DUKE OF CORNWALL’S LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 30 November 1917:
Mrs. Earl of 16 North Terrace, Newtown, has received a letter from a Wesleyan chaplain in France, stating that her husband Lance-Corporal C. Earl, has been wounded and missing since November 6th but no official news to this effect has been received from the Record Office, although letters sent to him have been returned marked “Wounded: allocation uncertain.” He was with the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, and had only been in France about four weeks.
The Western Gazette 11 October 1918:
Mrs. H.M. Earl, of 16 North Terrace, Newtown, on Sunday received an official notification from the War Office stating that no further news could be found regarding her husband Lance-Corporal J.C. Earl, D.C.L.I., it was previously reported that he was killed on November 6th 1917 or since that date. The deceased was previously reported wounded and missing.
Panel 80 to 82 and 163A Tyne Cot Memorial
Eason, Samuel Phillip
Age: 28
DIED 2 NOVEMBER 1914
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
A photograph of Private Eason, is published in the Roll of Honour in the Western Gazette Almanac 1915.
Samuel Eason had one daughter but as Samuel was reported missing presumed killed, his mother would never accept his death and refused to have his name inscribed on the Yeovil War Memorial. However, in September 1989, Mrs Evans, of Bridport called at the offices of the South Somerset District Council to enquire whether Samuel’s name could be added to the Memorial because her mother, Samuel’s daughter, would dearly like to see her father’s sacrifice commemorated in his native town. This was agreed and his name has been added. Samuel’s widow was living in Stoford at the time of her husband’s death and his name has been included on the Barwick and Stoford Memorial in Barwick Church.
Panel 3 Ploegsteert Memorial
Son of George and Jane Eason, 40 South Street, Yeovil and husband of Rosina Plummer (formerly Eason) of Stoford.
Ewens, Lionel Richard
Age: Unknown
DIED 26 0CTOBER 1917
SERGEANT 9th COMPANY, CANADIAN MACHINE GUN CORPS
The Western Gazette 16 November 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. E.S. Ewens of Kingston, have received information that their third son, Sergt. L.R. Ewens, of the Canadian Machine Gun Corps, is reported severely wounded and missing. Sergt. Ewens, who is 26 years of age, left England about seven years ago for Canada. At the outbreak of War he left his homestead and joined the Canadian Forces. He went to France in April 1916, and was home on leave as recently as six weeks ago. Much sympathy is expressed with Mr. and Mrs. Ewens in their anxiety, as all their four sons have been in the Army almost since the outbreak of war.
Interred in Passchendaele New British Cemetery - Grave VIII.c.13.
Fitkin, Harry
Age: 25
DIED 9 DECEMBER 1918
DRIVER 501st FIELD COMPANY, ROYAL ENGINEERS
Interred in Kirechkoi-Hortakoi Military Cemetery, Greece
Grave 556
Husband of Dora Fitkin of 32 Mount Pleasant, Yeovil.
Fone, James Walter
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 NOVEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 46th BATTALION, TRAINING RESERVE
The Western Gazette 1 December 1916:
The death occurred under painful circumstances on Wednesday week of Private James Walter Fone, of the Worcester Regiment, fourth son of Mr. Edward Fone, and brother of Mrs. R. Hodges, of 28 Crofton Avenue. The late Private Fone, who was 36 years of age, had been working in Bristol for about 13 years, and was called up in March of this year. Leaving Bristol he was sent to Blandford, and subsequently to Swanage, where he contracted brain fever, death taking place a week later at the Isolation Hospital, Parkstone. Previous to living in Bristol he was employed for many years as a shop assistant at Messrs. Redwoods, High Street. The funeral took place at the Cemetery on Monday afternoon, the body being conveyed from Parkstone the same day. The Rev. A. W. Gummer Butt (pastor of the Baptist Church) officiated at the graveside and the inscription on the breast plate read:- “James Walter Fone, who died at the Military Hospital, Parkstone, November 22nd 1916. He was dearly loved.” The mourners were:- Mr. Edward Fone (father), Messrs. Albert, Fred and William Fone (all of London, brothers), Mr. Leslie Fone (nephew) Mr. Charles Gear (of Ringwood, brother in law), and Mr. G. Walsh (of Bristol, friend). There was a large number of floral tributes, which included a beautiful wreath from the officers, non-commissioned officers, and men of the deceased’s Regiment.
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave B.3475.
Fooks, Ptolemy Henry
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 AUGUST 1919
PRIVATE 2nd/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The name F T FOOKS was added to the War Memorial some time after the names were originally inscribed. An extensive search of available records can only establish that P T FOOKS was the only Yeovilian or with Yeovil connections, with this surname killed or dying in the Great War 1914-1919. On the probability that the intials F T were given in error for P H some years later, the details of P H FOOKS have been given.
The Western Gazette 31 October 1919:
The death has occurred at Colaba War Hospital of Private Ptolemy Harry Fooks, sixth son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Fooks of Vicarage Street. The late Private Fooks, who was in the 2nd/5th Somerset Light Infantry succumbed to “Kala Hazar” Fever. He was 21 years of age. His death recalls the striking example of patriotism and self-sacrifice made by this family during the war, no fewer that seven brothers serving in one or other branches of H.M. Forces. The eldest, Private Edwin Fooks, served with the Devon Labour Battalion; the second, Sergeant Frank Fooks, was on reserve when the war commenced, and immediately rejoined his old Regiment-the 5th Royal Irish Lancers. He went to France with one of the first contingents, and served in that theatre of war for four years, undergoing many thrilling experiences. The third brother, Sergeant Reginald, joined the 2nd/5th Somersets, and went to India; Private Alonzo, served in the R.G.A.(Regulars), and his period of service does not expire until December. Sapper Stanley Fooks was in the R.F.A. and afterwards the Engineers, and Percy in the Coldstream Guards. Four of the brothers have been demobilized, one is awaiting discharge, and one has signed on for further service. It is believed to be the only family in Yeovil from which seven sons served, although there were several with six and many with four or five.
Face C. Kirkee 1914-1918 Memorial, India.
Foot, Edward Silke
Age: 33
DIED 16 SEPTEMBER 1916
LANCE CORPORAL 43rd COMPANY, MACHINE GUN CORPS (INFANTRY)
The Western Gazette 6 October 1916:
Corporal E.S. Foot, of the Machine Gun Corps, a former member of the 6th Somerset Light infantry, and a late National Reservist, who joined up with the other members of the National Reserve, is reported missing. Although his parents have not received any official intimation, letters from friends, which have been received in the town, speak of him as having been severely wounded by two bullets in a recent attack. (Mr. Frederick Foot (father) lived at 2 Kingston.)
Pier and Face 5C and 12C Thiepval Memorial
Gadd, William Thomas
Age: 37
DIED 23 SEPTEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 12th BATTALION, ROYAL SUSSEX REGIMENT
Son of Henry and Jane Gadd, of 27 Vincent Street, Yeovil and husband of Nellie Gadd, of 8 Margaret Road, Guildford, Surrey.
Panel 86 to 88 Tyne Cot memorial
Gale, Leonard Alfred George
Age: Unknown
DIED 25 SEPTEMBER 1915
LANCE CORPORAL 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 15 October 1915:
Official notification was received on Saturday by Mrs. Gale, 28 Eastland Road, that her son Lance-Corporal Leonard Gale, was killed in action on September 25th, whilst serving with the 6th Somersets in Flanders. Deceased, who was well-known in the town, celebrated his 19th birthday at the Front about three weeks before his untimely end. Joining the Army on the outbreak of hostilities, he served his training at Crown Hill, Plymouth. He was, however rejected for foreign service on medical grounds, but on volunteering went to France in June last. Deceased’s younger brother is serving in France as a farrier.
Panel 21. Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial
Gale, Reginald
Age: Unknown
DIED 30 JULY 1916
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 25 August 1916:
News has recently been received of the death in action of 15557 Private Reginald Gale of the Somerset Light Infantry, second son of Mr. and Mrs. E. Gale, of 5 Penn Field. Accompanying the notification was a Royal message of sympathy signed by Mr. Asquith. Priv. Gale, who was only 19 years of age, joined up in the early part of September 1914, being at that time in his 17th year. In a letter from his corporal it stated that Private Gale was killed by a sniper on the morning of 30th July. The corporal also wrote:- “I hardly know how to express the sorrow of the comrades of his platoon and myself when we heard of his death, especially as we were very great chums.” – Mr. and Mrs. Gale have also another son serving with a Territorial battalion of the Somersets in India. Mrs. Gale has received a letter from Lieut. Howard C.J Mitchelmore, of the Royal Flying Corps:- “Please accept my very deep sympathy at the loss you have sustained in the death of your son; a loss that can only be tempered by the knowledge that he died fighting for the folks at home. For six months I was in charge of the platoon to which he belonged, and of a wonderful cheery crowd he was the most cheery. No matter how much work was to be done, or whatever the weather was, he seemed always to be happy. He has done his bit, the most that any man can do, he gave his life for his country.”
Interred in Essex Farm Cemetery - Grave III.A.7.
Gapp, Edmund John
Age: Unknown
DIED 3 MAY 1917
TROOPER HOUSEHOLD BATTALION
The Western Gazette 23 May 1917:
The intelligence has been received by Mrs. B Gapp, of 4 Penfield, Sherborne Road, that her husband, Trooper Edmund J. B. Gapp, of the Household Cavalry Battalion, was killed in action on May 3rd. The distressing news was conveyed to the deceased’s wife on Saturday in an official notification from the War Office. The deceased enlisted in the Scots Guards in November 1915 from which he was subsequently transferred to the Household Cavalry Battalion, with which he was serving at the time of his death. Trooper Gapp was, prior to enlisting, a shop assistant at Messrs. Clements’ High Street grocery stores, and had been in France about six months. Sincere sympathy is extended to Mrs. Gapp (who resides with her parents Mr. and Mrs. W. Butcher, of Penfield) and all other members of the family in this sorrow. The deceased’s home is at Swindon, and he was only married last September.
Bay 1. Arras Memorial
Garrett, Frederick George
Age: 23
DIED 30 DECEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 2nd/4th BATTALION, DORSET REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 8 February 1918:
Priv. F. Garrett of the Dorset Regiment, whose parents reside at 146 Park Street, is officially reported missing, believed drowned. Prior to enlistment in December 1914, he was engaged as a stable-man at the Co-operative Stores, Huish. He had previously suffered from dysentery and trench feet, and had also been wounded.
Chatby Memorial, Alexandria, Egypt.
Garrett, Sidney
Age: 20
DIED 4 SEPTEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 2 February 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. G. Garrett, of 37 King Street, Goldcroft, have received a letter from the Enquiry Department for Wounded and Missing of the British Red Cross and Order of St. John respecting their youngest son, Private Sidney Garrett of the Devons, stating that they had not been able to any definite information about Private Garrett up to the present. The only report they had received was one from Private T.G. Miller, of the same company and battalion, stating that he last saw Private Garrett on September 4th at Ginchy in their lines. He had been wounded, but was able to walk, and was on his way to the dressing station. He added that there was heavy firing going on at the time. They greatly feared that Private Garrett must have met with some further disaster after he was seen by Private Miller, but were continuing their enquiries on the parents’ behalf in order to obtain further details.
Pier and Face 2A. Thiepval Memorial
Gatcombe, Alfred James
Age: 33
DIED 25 MAY 1915
ABLE SEAMAN ROYAL NAVY
H.M.S. “TRIUMPH”
The Western Gazette 4 June 1915:
In the official list recently published of those missing in the Triumph in the Dardenelles appears the name of Able-Seaman Alfred James Gatcombe, son of Mrs . Southcliffe of 3 Crown Buildings, Huish. Seaman Gatcombe, who was a quiet and steady man, had been in the Navy for about 18 years and was well-known in the town. (HMS Triumph was sunk by German U.88 some 60 miles off Gaba Tepe, outside the Dardenelles on 25 May 1915)
Panel 7 Portsmouth Naval Memorial
Gatehouse, Ernest
Age: 25
DIED 1 JANUARY 1918
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette, 11 January 1918:
The parents of Private E. Gatehouse, Silver Street, have been notified that their son has died of wounds received in action. Private E. Gatehouse was seriously wounded on December 10th and admitted to a Casualty Clearing Station in France. He was formerly employed by the “Western Chronicle” Office, and, on leaving Yeovil some few years ago, went to Bournemouth, where he was well-known. He was on leave about a month ago. He had twice before been wounded, and the three occasions were all within three months. Great sympathy is expressed with the widow, the bereaved parents and all other relatives. (Husband of Ada Laura Gatehouse, of “White Heather,” St Mary’s Road, Bournmouth)
Interred in Duisans British Cemetery, Etrun -Grave V.E.8.
Godfrey, Norman Carter
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 APRIL 1918
SECOND LIEUTENANT 5th BATTALION, TANK CORPS
The Western Gazette 26 April 1918:
Lieutenant Norman Godfrey of the Tank Corps, second son of the late Mr. W. Godfrey, is reported killed in action last week. At the outbreak of war he was in partnership with his brother in the business of ironmongers &c., in Middle Street, and with several friends joined the ranks of the 6th Somersets. With them he later joined the Motor Machine Gun Corps, and with that unit went to Flanders in the early part of 1915. He saw much service in the trench fighting in the Ypres salient for many months, and ultimately came home for a commission, being gazetted in the Tanks Corps. He went out again some months ago and had been in many fights with his tank, and recently had an extraordinary escape. The late Lieutenant Norman Godfrey had many friends in the town and neighbourhood, who will hear of his death with the keenest regret, and much sympathy has been expressed with his widow-he was married only a few months since-and other relatives.
Panel 11. Ploegsteert Memorial
Gosney, Harold
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 SEPTEMBER 1915
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOUTH WALES BORDERERS
Interred in Vermelles British Cemetery - Grave VI.D.4.
Gough, Stanley Reginald
Age: Unknown
DIED 18 JUNE 1918
PRIVATE 10th BATTALION, WORCESTER REGIMENT
Interred in Terlincthun Britis Cemetery, Wimille - Grave XVI.B.13.
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Gould, Bert
Age: 30
DIED 21 AUGUST 1915
SERGEANT 6th BATTALION, THE LOYAL NORTH LANCASHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 27 August 1915:
Relatives residing in the town of Sergeant Bert Gould, of the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, have been informed by wire that he is dangerously ill, although the nature and cause of such illness was not stated, and information to this effect has not since been obtainable. Sergeant Gould, who has seen about two months service in the trenches, was called up as a Reservist on the outbreak of the war. He is well known in the town, being before the war a prominent playing member of the Petters’ Football Club, and since rejoining the Army he on several occasions assisted the Yeovil Football Club in their charity matches last season.
The Western Gazette 3 September 1915:
Relatives residing in the town of Sergeant Bert Gould, of the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, were informed by wire on Saturday August 21st that he was dangerously ill, although the nature and cause of such illness was not then stated. Letters have since been received from Sergeant Gould written in hospital in Cairo, in which he stated that he went into action of the 9th inst., and was wounded in the top of the head the following day. The contents of these letters would not have suggested that his condition was at all critical, indeed the wounded sergeant desired his relatives not to worry, as he was progressing favourably. However, the sad news came on Saturday last from his Battalion Headquarters that he died in hospital on the 21st the day on which the first news was received. Sergeant Gould, who had seen about two months service in the Dardenelles, was called up as a Reservist on the outbreak of the war.
Interred in Cairo War Memorial Cemetery - Grave D.49
Gray, Edward Bernard
Age: Unknown
DIED 17 MAY 1918
CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Interred in Le Vertannoy British Cemetery, Hinges - Grave B.14.
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Gray, W
Age: Unknown
THE IDENTITY OF W GRAY HAS NOT BEEN ESTABLISHED WITH CERTAINTY
Gregory, Alfred Thomas Lyndell
Age: 19
DIED 1 OCTOBER 1918
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, OXFORD AND BUCKS LIGHT INFANTRY
Interred in Anneux British Cemetery - Grave IV.B.40.
Son of Mr and Mrs L Gregory of 26 Orchard Street, Yeovil
Hammett, Conrad
Age: Unknown
DIED 15 APRIL 1918
SAPPER 77th FIELD COMPANY, ROYAL ENGINEERS
The Western Gazette 26 April 1916:
Mr. and Mrs. A.D. Hammett, of 9 Sparrow Road, have lost their only son, Sapper C. Hammett, who died in a hospital in France on the 15th inst. The deceased, who has a record of three year’s unbroken service in France, received a gunshot wound in the thigh the latter part of last month, to which he succumbed on April 15th. The late sapper, who is only 25 years of age, enlisted in the regular Army in November 1913, and served his apprenticeship at Messrs. Jesty & Co., Middle Street. He only returned from 14 days furlough on March 2nd.
Interred in Etaples Military Cemetery - Grave XXIX.B.21.
Hancock, John
Age: Unknown
DIED 6 JUNE 1918
PRIVATE 9th BATTALION. ROYAL WELSH FUSILIERS
The Western Gazette 6 September 1918:
News has been received by Miss M. Hancock of Lyncroft, The Park, of the death of her brother Private Hancock, of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers. He died on the 6th June at Cologne, Germany, from shot wounds which fractured his right thigh. Private Hancock joined from South Wales, but was well-known in this district. He was wounded and taken prisoner in France on the 10th of April 1918.
Interred in Cologne Southern Cemetery, Germany - Grave VII.B.27.
Hann, Albert Edward
Age: Unknown
DIED 29 SEPTEMBER 1915
PRIVATE 3rd BATTALION, ROYAL FUSILIERS
The Western Gazette 25 February 1916:
Private A. Hann, of the 3rd Royal Fusiliers, who was reported missing in September of last year, is now stated to have been killed in action. The deceased private was a Yeovilian, but, had not been living in the town for some years, giving up employment in Essex to join the Army on the outbreak of war. His sister, Miss E. Hann, resides at No. 2 Victoria Buildings.
Panel 25 to 27 Loos Memorial
Hardement, Frank
Age: 19
DIED 10 OCTOBER 1918
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 25 October 1918:
Mr. R.W. Hardement of the Capital and Counties Bank, and Mrs. Hardement, have received information this week that their youngest son, Private Frank Hardement of the Dorsets, has been wounded and also that he is missing from his Battalion. An old boy of the County School, Private Hardement was with Mr. L. Caplen, the surveyor to the Rural District Council, when he joined up in April last year.
Interred in Montay-Neuvilly Road Cemetery - Grave II.E.22.
Hardy, Edwin
Age: Unknown
DIED 20 SEPTEMBER 1914
PRIVATE 3rd BATTALION, WORCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 5 March 1915:
Official intimation has been received by Mrs. Hardy, of Castle Cary, of the death of her husband, Private Edwin Hardy, who was serving with the 2nd Worcestershire Regiment at the Front. Private Hardy, whose mother and father reside at 24 Victoria Road, Yeovil, went to the Continent on the outbreak of war, and was in the engagement at Mons. He was killed in action on 20th September last at Vailly.
La Ferte-Sous-Jouarre Memorial
Hardy, Fred
Age: 19
DIED 20 SEPTEMBER 1917
RIFLEMAN 12th BATTALION, THE RIFLE BRIGADE
The Western Gazette 9 November 1917:
Priv. Fred Hardy, son of the late Mr. Wm. Sherring Hardy, of the Butcher’s Arms, is reported missing. He joined the M.T., A.S.C. in March 1917 and was subsequently transferred to the Rifle Brigade. Previous to the War, he was employed at the Mermaid Hotel as a motor driver.
Panel 145 to 147 Tyne Cot Memorial
Hardy, Henry Charles
Age: 27
DIED 19 FEBRUARY 1917
PRIVATE 7th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 2 March 1917:
Mrs. Hardy of Victoria Road, has received an unofficial message, stating that her son, Private H. Hardy, of the Royal Engineers, has died of wounds received in action. This is the second son Mr. and Mrs. Hardy have lost in the war.
Interred in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery - Grave VIII.B.184.
Harrison, Frederick Walter
Age: Unknown
DIED 28 FEBRUARY 1917
LANCE CORPORAL 7th BATTALION, GLOUCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 18 March 1917:
Mrs. N. Harrison of 10 Park Street, has received the sad information that her eldest son, Private F.W. Harrison, of the Gloucesters, has died of wounds received in action in Mesopotamia. Private Harrison (who was 23 years of age) enlisted in the Somersets about two years ago, and had served in France when he fell sick. He was brought home, and later transferred to the Gloucesters, and sent to Mesopotamia, where he had been for over a year. The deceased soldier was at one time employed in the dressing yard of Mr. E. Pittard.
Shaikh Saad Old Cemetery Memorial, Amara War Cemetery
Hawker, Frederick
Age: Unknown
DIED 10 JULY 1915
PRIVATE 9th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 16 July 1915
Private Fred Hawker of the Somerset Light Infantry, formerly Yeovil National Reserves, has died at Wareham Camp from a fit, which occurred whilst he was in bed at night. Deceased’s home address was No. 1 South Western Terrace, Yeovil, and he leaves a widow and six children. He had previously seen service with the Army, and had been abroad. Upon the outbreak of hostilities he had re-joined, and had been made an officer’s servant and sergeants’ mess waiter. Deceased was forty-nine years of age. - The funeral took place at Wareham on Wednesday afternoon with full military honours. Officers and men belonging to the Regiment accompanied by the bugle band, attended. Volleys were fired over the grave, and the “Last Post” was sounded. The Rev W. F. Sersbie, senior chaplain to the forces, officiated. The grave was beautifully lined with evergreens, and there were many wreaths on the coffin. The following relatives from Yeovil attended, and were conveyed in a mourning coach:- Mrs. Hawker (widow), Miss May Hawker (the eldest daughter), and Master Edward Hawker (eldest son), Mrs. Sprake (sister), and Mr. Chas. Hawker (brother), all of Yeovil. Mrs. Hawker has received a letter expressing the King and Queen’s condolences, and signed by Lord Kitchener.
Interred in Wareham Cemetery - Grave B.A.9.
Hawker, Sidney George
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 AUGUST 1917
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 26 July 1918:
Mrs. Hawker of 55 South Street, has received the information from the War Office, that her husband, Private Sidney George Hawker, of the Somerset L.I., who was posted missing on 22nd of August, 1917, is now presumed to have been killed on that date or since. Enclosed with the sad tidings was a message from the King and Queen.
Panel 41 to 42 and 163A Tyne Cot Memorial
Hawkins, Edwin
Age: 39
DIED 3 DECEMBER 1915
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave B.3091
Son of Giles and Elizabeth Hawkins, of 39 Vincent Street, Yeovil.
Hayward, Bertie John
Age: Unknown
PRIVATE SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Inscription in the Somerset County Roll of Honour in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral:-
‘HAYWARD, Bertie John, Private, Somerset L.I., Yeovil - Page 175
Hayward, S E
Age: Unknown
DIED 10 APRIL 1915
DRIVER 15th BATTALION, ROYAL FIELD ARTILLERY
The Western Gazette 16 April 1915:
Mrs. Hayward, a widow, of 53 Huish has lost one of her sons under painful circumstances. The deceased who was in his 21st year, enlisted in the R.F.A. about two months previously, and was in the 15th Battalion, stationed at Hillsea Barracks, Cosham. About a fortnight ago, whilst playing hockey, he was struck on the head with a stone, which caused a severe wound. He was later transferred to the Isle of Wight Red Cross Hospital for a change of air, where unfortunately he contracted enteric fever, and which ultimately resulted in his death. Deceased was given a military funeral, which was attended by a contingent from his Battalion. Mrs Hayward’s second son Fred, is also in the Army, serving with the Somerset Territorials in India.
Interred in Ryde I.O.W. Borough Cemetery - Grave OG.C.347.
Heard, Horace Cyril Casley
Age: Unknown
DIED 6 OCTOBER 1915
PRIVATE 7th BATTALION, SEAFORTH HIGHLANDERS
The Western Gazette 8 October 1915:
Notification has been received by his father residing at 17 Brunswick Street, that Private H.C. Heard, is in one of the base hospitals in France, suffering from severe wounds to the left leg and right thigh sustained in action on September 25th. Private Heard was at one time employed in the office of Messrs. Tompsetts of West Hendford, from whence he moved to another situation at Southampton. He enlisted in the Scots Greys soon after the commencement of the war, but was later transferred to the Seaforth Highlanders, and was drafted to the Front with his Regiment about six weeks ago. The latest news received from the hospital intimates that the wounded “kiltie’s” condition is serious. It has been found necessary to amputate one of his legs, and it was feared that the other one would have to be taken off.
Interred in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery - Grave VIII.c.45.
Helyar, Albert
Age: 30
DIED 1 JULY 1916
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Pier and Face 2A. Thiepval Memorial
Son of Mr and Mrs James Helyar, Great Western Terrace, Yeovil
Henwood, Eli
Age: 21
DIED 9 APRIL 1917
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 11 May 1917:
The news has been received by relatives that Private Eli Henwood of the S.L.I. has been wounded whilst serving in France. The nature of the wound is not stated.
Bay 4. Arras Memorial
Son of Mr and Mrs Henwood of 82 Lyde Road, Yeovil
Henwood, S H
Age: Unknown
DIED 20 JULY 1915
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, GRENADIER GUARDS
The Western Gazette 30 July 1915:
Letters which Mrs Henwood of 42 Lyde Road, has recently received state that her husband, Private Henwood, who is serving with the Grenadier Guards, has been killed at the Front. One of the letters comes from the Rev. M. Ponsonby (chaplain), and reads thus:- “You will hear today of your husband’s death. He was shot in the trenches by a sniper, and we buried him with a little band of heroes who have laid down their lives for their country. You will always have a great pride in what he has done. I never knew him myself, but they tell me in his regiment he was a very fine man.” In giving particulars of Private Henwood’s death, which he says was instantaneous, Corporal J.M. Feeney says he was greatly liked in the regiment, the men of which wished to express their sympathy and condolence with the widow. In conclusion, Corporal Feeney writes:- “If it be of any consolation to you, you will know that he has died as honourably as any man could die - whilst fighting for the greatest cause our country has ever undertaken.” The deceased soldier, who was formerly employed by Messrs. Brutton, was well known in the town. Previous to proceeding to the Front in May last, he married Miss Nellie Lester, second daughter of Mr. R. Lester of Orchard Street, Yeovil.
Interred in Woburn Abbey Cemetery, Cuinchy - Grave I.C.9.
Higgins, Brynford Eaton
Age: Unknown
DIED 20 MAY 1918
PRIVATE MOTOR TRANSPORT, ARMY SERVICE CORPS
The Western Gazette 31 May 1918:
Mr. and Mrs. Henry C. Higgins, of “Ivydene,” Charlton Road, Shepton Mallet, have been informed of the death of their younger son, Private Brynford Eaton Higgins, who died in France of wounds received on Whit-Monday morning. The Germans heavily shelled the park in which the columns of the Motor Transport A/S.C., in which he was serving was stationed, and he received injuries from which he passed away in an unconscious state a few hours later. During the afternoon he, with two of his comrades, were laid to rest in a Military Cemetery, the funeral service being conducted by the Australian Church of England Brigade Chaplain. Private Higgins was a one time in the Bristol office of the well known firm of Messrs. William Cary & Son, with whom his father had been connected for over 40 years, and at the time he enlisted he was in a department of Messrs. Aplin & Barrett Ltd., Yeovil. Whilst home on his leave in December, he married Miss Phyllis Lawson, of Bishopston, Bristol, and the sad news of his death was conveyed to the bereaved young widow in letters received from his officer and the Chaplain. The deceased soldier was 24 years of age.
Interred in Querrieu British Cemetery - Grave C.16.
Hilborne, H
Age: Unknown
DIED 24 NOVEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 2dn BATTALION, DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 23 March 1917:
Mrs. N. Smith, of 1 York Place, Kingston, has received official information that her brother, Private H. Hilborne of the Dorsets, had died from intestinal inflammation on 24th November 1916 whilst a prisoner of war at Spim Kara Hassar. Private Hilborne had served 21 years and was in India when war broke out. He was drafted to Mesopotamia, and taken prisoner at Kut with General Townshend’s force.
Interred in Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery - Grave XXI.L.22.
Hill, Arthur Theophilus
Age: Unknown
DIED 14 NOVEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 15 December 1916:
Official notification was received on Wednesday morning by Mr. and Mrs. J. Hill, of Reckleford Hill, that their youngest son, Private Arthur Hill, of the Somerset Light Infantry was killed in action on the 14th of November. Accompanying the notification was a message of sympathy from the King and Queen. Private Hill, who was 23 year of age, had been in the Army about eleven months, being called up with one of the first Derby Groups. Private Hill was familiarly known as “Marshall,” and was formerly employed at Mr. B. Chudleigh’s corn stores, Hendford. He was of a very cheery disposition, and a keen footballer, playing in goal for several local teams. Private Hill was wounded on the first day of the “Big Push” (July 1st) in the leg, and was for about six weeks in a War Hospital at Huddersfield. On his recovery he received the usual ten days’ leave, and after a few weeks training, returned to France. Much sympathy is felt for the parents in their sad loss.
Pier and face 2A. Thiepval Memorial
Hockey, Henry Albert Harry
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 NOVEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 32nd BATTALION, MACHINE GUN CORPS
The Western Gazette 29 November 1918:
The deepest sympathy is expressed with Mr. and Mrs. Hockey, of Pen Field, Sherborne Road, who during the armistice rejoicing, received the news of the death of their son Private H. Hockey of the Machine Gun Corps, who was killed only two days before the cessation of hostilities. The deceased was well known, and the news of his death at the age of 24 years, was received with regret. He had only been married about five months. The news was received by Mrs. Hockey through a letter from the Major of her husband’s Company who, writing expressing sympathy with her in the heavy blow she had sustained, says he was instantly killed with several of his comrades by the explosion of a mine near Avensnes, a town which he had gallantly helped to capture, and was buried with several others in a field near the town. The late Private Hockey joined the Forces on April 11th last, and was drafted to France on October 9th, having thus served abroad only one month. The deceased was previously employed as a clerk by the Phoenix Engineering Co. Ltd., Chard, and was also a keen footballer.
Interred in Maubeuge-Centre Cemetery - Grave D.62.
Holland, Edward
Age: 21
DIED 16 SEPTEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 7th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Pier and Face 2A Thiepval Memorial
Inscribed in the Somerset County Roll of Honour in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Holland, Harry
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 NOVEMBER 1917
CORPORAL 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 14 December 1917:
Mrs. Holland of Dampier Street, has received official notification that her son Private Harry Holland of the Somerset Territorials in Palestine, has been killed in action. Private Holland before joining up was employed in the office of Messrs. Petters’ Nautilus Works. Private Holland went to India with the Territorials in 1914, and was later transferred to Palestine.
Interred in Jerusalem War Cemetery - Grave X.21.
Holt, Percy Lionel
Age: Unknown
DIED 13 NOVEMBER 1917
LANCE CORPORAL 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 30 November 1917:
Mrs. Holt, of 42 Vicarage Street, has received the official intelligence that her son, Private Percy Holt, Somerset L.I., has been killed in action in Palestine. Deceased, who was only 21 years of age, served three years in India before proceeding to Palestine. Before enlisting he was employed at the Nautilus Works.
Panel 17 Jerusalem Memorial
Hooper, Frederick Thomas
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 SEPTEMBER 1916
SERGEANT 43rd COMPANY, MACHINE GUN CORPS
The Western Gazette 29 September 1916:
With reference to the death of Sergeant F.T. Hooper, The Machine Gun Section, Somerset L.I. who was killed in action on September 16th a correspondent writes:- “The working men of Yeovil have sustained another grievous loss in the fall of this brave soldier on the field of battle. Before the War Fred Hooper was employed at the Nautilus Works, and he was well known as an active member of a number of organisations in the town, including the National Reserve, the Constitutional Club, the Workers’ Union and Petters’ Football Club. He frequently sang at local concerts and possessed a considerable talent as a humorous entertainer and instrumentalist. He left Yeovil on August 26th 1914 with 54 members of the National Reserve. He is another of that gallant band who has now sealed his devotion to his King and Country by a glorious death. In May 1915, he went to France and since that date has been almost continually in the fighting line. His cheerfulness never failed him and his letters expressed the confidence he felt in the ultimate victory of our cause.
“In one of his many letters to his employers he wrote:-“ It is now 12 months since we landed here to do the best we could for King and Country. Many changes have taken place since that time and those that have come through have had strange and wonderful experiences, and those that have fallen, God be with them, heroes every one. Had anyone told me it was possible for human beings to go through what we have, I should have called him a -----, well, I leave you to guess, Sir, but it only shows you never know what you can do or stand till you try and still keep smiling.”
Sergeant Hooper, leaves a widow, with whom the deepest sympathy is felt. In a letter to Mrs. Hooper, the officer of his section writes:- “Your husband was senior officer and a tower of strength to my section, and we all feel his loss most acutely. It is difficult for me to express in words my appreciation of a gallant and efficient non-commissioned officer as your husband.”
Pier and Face 5C and 12C. Thiepval Memorial
Hooper, Victor
Age: Unknown
DIED 14 JULY 1917
PRIVATE 10th BATTALION, DEVONSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 27 July 1917:
Notification has been received by Mrs. Hooper, who is at present residing at Percy Road, of the death at Salonica on July 14th of her husband Priv. Victor Hooper. This deceased soldier was, prior to the outbreak of war, employed as a leather staker at Messrs. Hawkins, Jesty & Ricketts factory. He enlisted on 14th September 1914 – a month after the declaration of war and was in a service battalion of the Devon Regiment. He leaves a widow but no children.
Interred in Mikra British Cemetery, Kalamaria, Greece – Grave 51.
Hoskins, William Stanley
Age: Unknown
DIED 18 AUGUST 1916
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 25 February 1916:
Mr. and Mrs G. Hoskins, of 31 Reckleford, have been officially notified that their son, Private Albert Hoskins, was wounded on New Year’s Day whilst in action with the 8th Battalion, Somersets. His parents have since received letters from him from a Red Cross Hospital in Manchester, where he is said to be making favourable progress towards recovery, having been wounded in the chest. Private Hoskins, a glove cutter by trade, joined the Army at the beginning of the war and had been serving at the Front about five months.
Intelligence has also been received that Mr. and Mrs. Hoskins other son, Stanley who had been serving nine months at the Front as a private in the 1st Battalion, Somerset L.I., has been invalided to an Edinburgh Red Cross Hospital, suffering from inflammation of both legs. Private Hoskins gave up employment as a glove cutter in the town to enlist about twelve months ago, and was drafted to the Front on the completion of three months training.
The Western Gazette 22 June 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. G. Hoskins, of 31 Reckleford, have received notification from the War Office intimating that no further news has been received of their son, Private Stanley Hoskins (Somerset L.I.), who has been missing since August 18th last year, and the Army Council were regretfully constrained to conclude that he is dead and that his death occurred on or about that date. Prior to joining the Army in February 1915, the deceased was a glove cutter in the employ of Messrs. Ewens & Robbins. He went to France after three months training, and at the time of his death was only 22years of age.
Pier and Face 2A. Thiepval Memorial
Hunt, Frederick Arthur
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 AUGUST 1917
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, LONDON REGIMENT (ROYAL FUSILIERS)
The Western Gazette 21 September 1917:
Mrs. Hunt, of 22 Orchard Street has received news that her third son, Private F.A. Hunt of the London Regiment, has been killed in France. Private Hunt, who had been in the Army two years, had been in France about nine months and before joining the Army was employed at the Nautilus Works. He was 24 years of age, and leaves a widow and one child. In a letter to his parents, his captain says, “ Dear Mrs. Hunt - In reply to your letter of the 5th inst. I regret to inform you that Private F.A. Hunt of my Company met his death on August 18th at Westhoek Ridge, near Ypres. It has been my unpleasant duty to inform Mrs. F.A. Hunt of this, and I regret being the informant of such. I would ask his relatives to be brave in the knowledge that Hunt died with his face toward the enemy and paid the price which all here are prepared to do.”
Panel 52. Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial
Hutchings, Charles
Age: 21
DIED 23 JULY 1916
PRIVATE 2nd/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 4 August 1916:
Mr. and Mrs. E.G Hutchings, of 131 Huish, Yeovil have received the news that their son, Private Chas. Hutchings, of the Somerset Territorial Batt. had died from tuberculosis at Burmah. A Royal message of sympathy, signed by the Prime Minister accompanied the notification. Priv. Hutchings was a member of the Territorials and was one of the first contingents to be drafted abroad. The late Private Hutchings was for about three years employed in the news department of the “Western Gazette” at which place he was held in high esteem. He took a keen interest in sport, being a member of the office cricket and football team.
Interred in Rangoon War Cemetery, Myanmar - Grave 4.F.17.
Hyde, William Thomas
Age: Unknown
DIED 2 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st/8th BATTALION, HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 23 November 1917:
On Tuesday, Mrs. Hyde, of Westbury, Sherborne, received notification of the death of her husband, Private William Thomas Hyde, who was killed in the fighting in Palestine on November 3rd. Deceased, was the son of Mr. and Mrs. H. Hyde of Dunmore Westbury, Sherborne, and was formerly employed by Mr. Warr, hairdresser &c., of Half Moon Street, Sherborne. He subsequently worked for Mr. F.W. Gaylard, of Princes Street, Yeovil, and lived at 46 Seaton Road, Yeovil. He enlisted on 4th January last, and was at first attached to the Warwicks, but was transferred to another regiment and sent to Egypt. Deceased, who was respected by a large circle of friends, was 31 years of age, and leaves a widow and two children. He has two brothers serving, one Frederick, being in France, and the other, Percy, in Mesopotamia.
Interred in Gaza War Cemetery - Grave XXI.A.3.
Iver, Jenkins
Age: Unknown
DIED 5 APRIL 1918
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 26 April 1918:
Priv. Iver G. Jenkins, S.L.I., brother of Mrs W.J. White, of St. Michael’s Avenue, is reported as killed in recent fighting. He went to France on April 5th 1917, and met his death exactly a year later. He was formerly employed at Messrs. Sparrow’s Garage, Sherborne Road.
Interred in Tilloy British Cemetery, Tilloy-Les-Mofflaines - Grave V.B.16.
Jennings, Bert
Age: Unknown
DIED 31 MAY 1918
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, WILTSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 26 July 1918:
Lance-Corporal B. Jennings, Wilts Regiment, son of Mr. S. Jennings, of 102 Park Street, has been missing since May 31st. He joined up when 18 years of age last October and went to France on Easter Tuesday. He was formerly a patrol leader in the Boy Scouts and a member of the Yeovil Men’s V.A.D.
The Western Gazette 20 September 1918:
Private Bert Jennings, Wilts Regiment, whose home is 102 Park Street, and who has been reported missing for some time past, is now officially reported as having been killed in action or died of wounds on or about 31st May. The late Corporal Jennings was an active worker with the Yeovil Parish Church Branch of the Church Army, and also an assistant scoutmaster. On Sunday evening there was a memorial service in the Church Army Mission Hall, conducted by “Captain” Monkhouse, who gave an address referring to Corporal Jennings’ work for the mission, and expressed sympathy with his parents.
Interred in Chambrecy British Cemetery - Grave I.E.1.
Jesty, Edgar George
Age: Unknown
DIED 1 JULY 1916
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, ROYAL FUSILIERS
Interred in Hawthorne Ridge Cemetery No. 2, Auchonvillers,
Grave B.5. Inscribed in the Somerset County Roll of Honour in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Jones, Arthur Douglas Kemp
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 AUGUST 1917
SAPPER ROYAL ENGINEERS
The Western Gazette 24 August 1917:
The death occurred at his home in Brunswick Terrace, early yesterday morning, of Douglas Arthur, third son of Bandmaster Jones, of the W.S.I.Y., and of Mrs. Jones. Deceased who was 24 years of age, had experienced two years and two month’s active service in France with the Royal Engineers, being discharged on June 20th, having completely lost the sight of his right eye, and otherwise seriously injured. He was formerly employed for about four and a half years in the reading room at the “Western Gazette” and joined the Regular Forces sometime before the outbreak of war, having previously served with the W.S.I.Y. (West Somerset Imperial Yeomanry). Deceased was also a chorister of the Holy Trinity Church and a prominent member of the Church Lads’ Brigade. He was very popular and highly respected in the town, and sincere sympathy is felt with his bereaved family. It is only about a year ago that Mr. and Mrs. Jones lost another son.
The Western Gazette 31 August 1917:
The funeral took place on Monday afternoon at the Cemetery of Mr. Douglas Jones, whose death at his home at Brunswick Street, at the age of 24 years, was reported in last week’s issue. The late Mr. Jones, who was formerly employed on the staff of the “Western Gazette,” joined the Army shortly before the outbreak of war, and served over two years active service in France, and had seen some severe fighting. He was discharged on June 20th, as the result of injuries. For the funeral the Yeovil Company of the 3rd Battalion, Somerset Volunteer Regiment furnished firing and bearer parties, the former according the usual honours to the remains of the deceased as they were brought from his home in Brunswick Street and placed in the hearse by the bearer party. Then the procession left for the cemetery in the following order:- At the head with arms reversed, the firing party, in charge of Company Sergeant Major Allbutt; the hearse and mourning coach containing Mr. Trevor Jones, late W.S.Y., Lance Corporal Gilbert Jones, W.S.Y., Misses Amy, Flossie and Dilys Jones – brothers and sisters of the deceased; a large party of Volunteers; wounded soldiers from the Red Cross Hospital; the Men’s Voluntary Aid Detachment, under Section Leader J. Goodchild; Quartermaster H. Mott, V.A.D.; and Captain and Adjutant Bell of the Volunteers, who was in command of the parade. The service was conducted by the Rev. G.C. Seymour, curate of the Parish Church. After a portion of the service had been said in the chapel, the Union Jack covered coffin was borne along paths lined by the troops to the grave, and after that they formed up near the grave, and in the presence of a large and sympathetic gathering, the committal prayers were said. At the close, the firing party fired the customary three volleys, and the “Last Post” was sounded by Private E. Rattle of the Royal Berks, an old school chum of the deceased soldier. Bandmaster F.D. Jones, the bereaved father, was unable to be present owing to having been recalled from his leave before the funeral. There were several handsome floral tributes.
The Western Gazette 17 October 1919:
Mrs Jones of 18 Brunswick Street, has received from the Record Office, Chatham, the 1914 Star which would have been conferred upon Sapper D.A. Jones, R.E., had he lived. The Star was sent in memory of his services with the British Expeditionary Forces in France and Belgium between the outbreak of war and midnight on 22/23rd November 1914. In forwarding the decoration, the officer was commanded by the King to assure the recipient of His Majesty’s high appreciation of the services rendered. - The late Sapper Jones, who was formerly employed in the Reading Department of the Western Gazette was in the Royal Engineers when war broke out and went to France with his unit. He was ultimately invalided out of the service as a result of wounds and sickness, and died, much to the regret of his many friends, sometime afterwards. Mrs. Jones has also received a Scroll of Honour inscribed as follows “No 23205 Sapper D.A. Jones, Royal Engineers. Served with honour and was disabled in the Great War. Honourably discharged on 30th June 1917:- George R.”
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery
Langdon, Frederick William
Age: 31
DIED 1 JULY 1916
CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Pier and Face “A. Thiepval Memorial
Inscribed in the Somerset County Roll of Honour in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Langtry, Charles
Age: 48
15 May 1918
PRIVATE Royal Defence Corps
Charles Langtry was born in 1870 in yeovil when his father was Goods Foreman for the GWR and later charles did his 9+ schooling at The Trinity College School in Trowbridge where his father Albert Langtry was the owner of The Bridge Temperance Hotel BA14 8LD.
After school Charles joined the RVC Riffles Volunteer Corp (Regular Army -Wiltshire Regiment) in 1889 with service No.: 2424 L/Bombardier and after a long career and excellent behaviour got in 1911 his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal 🎖.
With the outbreak of WW1 he re-enlisted, but this time joining RDC Royal Defence Corps with service No.: 37860 Private till his death in the call of duty on 15th May 1918 at the age of 48.
Larcombe, Charles P
Age: Unknown
DIED 25 APRIL 1917
PRIVATE 21st BATTALION, EAST ONTARIO REGIMENT
CANADIAN INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 4 May 1917:
Townspeople generally and football lovers in particular heard with feelings of deep regret the death in France on or about April 26th of Signaller Charles (“Charlie”) P. Larcombe, second son of Mr. and Mrs F. Larcombe of Sherborne Road. On Tuesday morning, the parents received a letter from a comrade of their son, Lance Corporal Edwin Baker of the – Canadian Battalion, conveying the sad news, expressing sympathy with them in their sorrow and adding that Signaller Larcombe was killed instantaneously. The writer proceeded “He was a good fellow, and the boys will miss him very much, for he was so well liked…He has made many an hour bright for us which would otherwise have been miserable. Charles, my chum Ledbury, and I, have spent many a pleasant hour together since he joined us at the Somme, and, believe me, we shall miss him very much. He died doing his duty, for he and Lance Corporal Leighton (who was badly wounded with the same shell) were mending one of our telephone wires when the sad event happened. He has been brought out of the trenches….and our Chaplain, Captain Kidd will bury him tomorrow.” (April 28th). Deceased was a former member of the Yeovil Town Football XI and figured in the team during its most successful seasons, when the Dorset League, Somerset League, Somerset Charity Cup, and other trophies were secured. He usually appeared at inside left, and was a fast and clever player. He left Yeovil in 1912 and obtained a lucrative appointment in the Customs at Toronto, Canada. Some time after the outbreak of war, he enlisted in a Canadian Battalion and had been in France seven months. Only a short time before his death he took part in the glorious fight for Vimy Ridge. He was 26 years of age, and the sympathy of a large circle of friends of the deceased has been expressed with the parents, who have three other sons serving.
The Western Gazette 11 May 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. F. Larcombe, of the Stores, Sherborne Road, have received a letter from Captain Gillman O.C. of Signals, with reference to the death of their son Signaller C.P. Larcombe, “Whilst he was with us,” writes Captain Gillman, “he endeared himself to all his comrades by his sunny disposition and cheery countenance. I can only say that he died doing his duty, and I feel I have lost one of the best men in the section, always cheerful under the most trying circumstances, and fearless to a degree. He was on a section near the forward area, and, in company with an N.C.O., was going out to carry on some visual work. Just as they reached the top of the dug-out, a 5.9 German shell struck about 5 feet away from them, killing Larcombe and severely wounding the N.C.O. His body was taken out and buried in the military cemetery at Ecoivres….. I join with his comrades of the signal section in extending to you our heartfelt sympathy in your bereavement.”
Interred in Ecoivres Military Cemetery, Mont-St.-Eloi
Grave VI.G.16.
Larcombe, Reginald Fred
Age: 26
DIED 10 SEPTEMBER 1918
SECOND LIEUTENANT CITY OF LONDON YEOMANRY (ROUGH RIDERS)
The Western Gazette 20 September 1918:
Mr. and Mrs. F. Larcombe, of Sherborne Road, have received an official notification, that their son, Second Lieut. R.F. Larcombe, of the City of London Yeomanry, is reported missing since September 10th whilst serving in France. It will be remembered that about 18 months ago, another son, Charlie, of the Canadians, was killed in France, and about three weeks ago, Bombadier F.J. Larcombe, R.G.A., was wounded, and is now home from hospital for a few days special furlough.
Panel 3 Vis-En-Artois Memorial
Leaver, William Crocker
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 NOVEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 45th BATTALION, AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 26 January 1917:
Private William Crocker Leaver, of the Australian Infantry, who served in Gallipoli and Egypt, has died from wounds he received whilst serving with the British Expeditionary Force in France. The deceased was the fourth son of Mrs. Leaver, Waterloo House and the late Mr. John Leaver, currier and leather merchant of Yeovil.
Villers-Bretonneux Memorial
Lee, Walter John
Age: 35
DIED 4 OCTOBER 1917
LANCE CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 16 November 1917:
The many friends of Mrs. Wall, of 37 Victoria Road, will learn with deep regret that her son Lance Corporal W.J. Lee has been missing since the 4th October 1917, and is presumed to have been killed in action in the great attack on that date. He has been in France since the beginning of the war with the Somersets. Writing to Lance Corporal Lee’s wife, the officer commanding says:- “It is with deep regret that I have to inform you that your husband Lance Corporal Lee is missing. He was missing on the 4th October in the great attack and I fear he is killed but I still hope he may turn up again. Your husband was an excellent soldier and is greatly missed in the company.”
Interred in Cement House Cemetery - Grave IV.A.23.
Lovell, Alfred
Age: Unknown
DIED 1 MAY 1917
PRIVATE 5th BATTALION, DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 18 May 1917:
Mrs. Lovell, of 15 Wellington Street, Yeovil, has received the sad intelligence that her husband Private Lovell of the Dorset Regiment was killed in action in France on May 1st. Writing to the deceased’s wife, Colonel C.C. Hannay states:- “It is with the greatest regret that I have to inform you that your husband Priv. Lovell, was killed last night (May 1st) by the explosion of a shell. It is a great loss to me, for he had been my servant so long, and he was always so cheery, and hard working. He had just left Battalion Headquarters, about 9.45 p.m. last night when a shell burst in the mess cookhouse killing our mess waiter, and severely wounding you husband and another man. Private Lovell was hit in the face, but was quite conscious and cheerful. He died as he was being taken to the dressing station. I offer you my sincerest sympathy in your great loss.” Another letter received from Mrs. Hannay says:-“We all liked Lovell so much, and it seems so extra hard after being abroad so long, that he should be taken now.” Private Lovell, who belonged to the Regular Army, had served seventeen years, twelve of which were spent in India.. He had seen active service at the Dardenelles, and was transferred to France with his Regiment (the Dorsets) where he had remained until the time of his death. During his stay in France he had seen considerable fighting, and up to the time of his death had come through the fighting unscathed. The deceased soldier was 36 years of age. Much sympathy is felt for his wife and family in their sad bereavement.
Bay 6. Arras Memorial
Loxton, Francis Willoughby
Age: 32
DIED 11 AUGUST 1915
CORPORAL 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 20 August 1915:
News has been received of the death of Corporal Loxton, who is the first member of the Yeovil Company of the National Reserve who is at present known to have lost his life on active service. Deceased was the manager of the Yeovil branch of Messrs. Wilson and Gray (Auctioneers, Valuers etc 20 Princes Street) and threw up his post when the call came. He was well known and popular amongst a large circle of friends, and the greatest sympathy is expressed with his widow (who is left with an infant son) and his father (Mr. Edgar Loxton, of Trafalgar House, South Street, Lymington.) and other members of the family. In a letter received from a comrade it is stated that Corporal Loxton was asleep in a dug-out when a shell pitched near and exploded causing his death. An older brother of the deceased is serving in India with the Hampshire Territorials.
Interred in Bedford House Cemetery - Grave No.2 II.A.18.
Luffman, Ernest John
Age: 26
DIED 4 DECEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 13 December 1918:
Much sympathy is felt with Mr. and Mrs. John Luffman, of 100 Sherborne Road, who received the sad news on Monday, by a telegram from the Record Office, Exeter, stating that their son 240834 Private E.J. Luffman died at one of the Alexandria Hospitals, Egypt, on December 4th from bronchial pneumonia. The deceased, who was before enlistment employed in the general Printing Department of the “Western Gazette” joined up on the outbreak of war in 1914, went to India in October of the same year, and was later transferred to Palestine. Another son is serving in Mesopotamia. – Mr. and Mrs. Luffman and brother and sister desire to express their heartiest thanks for the kind sympathy which has been shown to them in their sad bereavement.
Interred in Ramleh War Cemetery - Grave A.73.
Luxton, Thomas
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 21 December:
Mrs. Luxton, of Market Street, has been notified that her only son, Priv. Thomas Luxton of the Somt.L.I., was killed in action on November 23rd. Private Luxton had been in the Army two years nine months, of which six were spent in Palestine. Deceased, who was 31 years of age, and was previously employed by Mr. Little, gunsmith, of Silver Street, was also engaged for several years as a packing assistant in the Western Gazette Publishing Department and agent for the Western Gazette for Preston and Montacute, leaves a sister and a widowed mother.
Interred in Jerusalem War Cemetery - Grave G.26.
Major, Frederick
Age: 33
DIED 11 JANUARY 1915
PRIVATE 9th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave A.2756
Son of John and Eliza Jane Major
March, Samuel
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 AUGUST 1915
LANCE CORPORAL 5th BATTALION, DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 10 September 1915:
Mrs. March, who resides at 104 Sherborne Road, received intimation from the Infantry Record Office on Thursday morning that her husband, Lance Corporal S. March has been wounded in action on August 22nd, whilst serving with the 5th Dorsets at the Dardenelles.
The Western Gazette 17 September 1915:
Mrs. March, of 104 Sherborne Road, has now been notified that her husband Lance Corporal S. March, who was reported in our last issue to have been wounded in action with the 5th Dorsets at the Gallipoli Peninsular, died of his wounds whilst on a hospital ship, and was buried at sea. Previous to the war, Lance Corporal March was employed by Messrs. Petters Ltd., and had been at the Dardenelles about six weeks. General sympathy is expressed for the widow who is left with one child. Mrs. March, who resides at 104 Sherborne Road, wishes to thank all kind friends for their deepest sympathy in her sad loss.
Panel 136 to 139. Helles Memorial
Marnie, Douglas D
Age: Unknown
4 JULY 1918
PRIVATE 2ND CLASS ROYAL AIR FORCE RECRUITS DEPOT
The Western Gazette 12 July 1918:
News has been received with regret by his many friends in the town of the death of Cadet Douglas Marnie, R.A.F., whose parents reside in Scotland, and which took place at a training centre from pneumonia following influenza. The late Mr. Marnie, who was 181/2 years of age, had lived in the town for some time, and was a pupil at the works of the Goldcroft Glove Company. He was actively connected with the Congregational Church, having been assistant secretary to the Sunday School and a lieutenant in the Cadet Company.
The Western Gazette 19 July 1918:
A memorial service to the late Cadet Douglas Marnie, R.A.F., was held in the Princes Street Congregational Church on Sunday morning. The deceased was a keen worker with the B.B. Cadets as a lieutenant of the Company, and was also the Sunday School assistant secretary and a Worker in the Young People’s Society. There was a large and sympathetic congregation, including the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Yeovil Boys’ Brigade Companies, the Baptist Girls’ Life Brigade and the Girl Guides. Appropriate music was played and suitable hymns sung, and during the service the Rev. R. Newell feelingly alluded to the following who had been associated with the Boys’ Brigade, and who had given their lives for their country:- Bert Norman, Harry White (lieutenant of the Company), Clarence Tucker, Harry Holland, Stanley Purchase, Ernest Gatehouse and Frank Ostler. Brought up in the home of the Boys’ Brigade movement - he had been member of one of the largest companies in Glasgow - and valued it very much, not only because of the drill, but because it was of a religious foundation and character, and aimed to make strong Christian men of the boys who were associated with it. He (the rev. gentleman) was sorry that the Boys’ Brigade had changed its name to become the Cadet Corps, but he hoped that the Cadet Corps would never change its character, but that it would always remain a religious movement, and so long as the churches appointed its officers it would be so.
Interred in Cathcart Cemetery - Grave Q.618
Marsh, Edward Waters Harbin
Age: Unknown
DIED 30 DECEMBER 1915
CAPTAIN INDIAN ARMY
13th RAJPUTS
The Western Gazette 7 January 1916:
Amongst the passengers of the ill-fated Persia, torpedoed last week in the Mediterranean, was Captain E.W.H. Marsh, elder son of Colonel and Mrs Wm. Marsh, of Old Sarum House, and who had recently been in the town on sick leave following recovery from a wound received in Gallipoli.
Captain Marsh was returning to India to rejoin his old regiment, the 13th Rajputs, in which he had obtained promotion. His name has not appeared amongst the published lists of survivors, and the great anxiety is felt as to his safety.
Pulman’s Weekly News 8 February 1916:
Captain E.W.H. Marsh, 13th Rajputs “The Shekhawati Regiment,” whose name is, unhappily, not yet included in the list of survivors from a ship recently sunk, is the elder son of Colonel and Mrs. W. Marsh, of Old Sarum House, Yeovil. At the outbreak of war he was at home on leave from India, and was at once ordered to rejoin his regiment in India. This order was cancelled a few hours before the ship sailed, and shortly afterwards, he was attached to the 6th Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment, being appointed Adjutant. In the month of May he was sent to France temporarily with other Indian officers, to replace losses in the Indian Contingent, but after three weeks in the trenches, he was able to re-join the South Lancashires. His regiment proceeded to Gallipoli with the 13th Division, in July, and took part in the Suvla Bay Expedition, being one of the units to reach the top of the celebrated crest, during which operation, Captain Marsh was severely wounded. Upon his recovery he was ordered to return to India, and he was proceeding thither when the disaster occurred. The family still hope that they may hear of his safety.
Captain Marsh had had previous war experience, having served as Lieutenant in the Mounted Infantry of the 60th Rifles in the Boer War. After this he joined the South Lancashire Regiment, from which he exchanged into the India Army.
Captain Marsh was a well-known figure in Yeovil and the neighbourhood, and was held in the greatest esteem and admiration by all who knew him. His quiet, unassuming manner and his true soldierly character had gained him the respect of all classes, who remember his keen anxiety to go on immediate service at the outbreak of hostilities. Now that everything points to the fact that such a career of service has been cut short, and the utmost sympathy is extended to Colonel and Mrs. Wm. Marsh, whose grief may be tempered with the knowledge that if Captain Marsh has died, he died like a soldier and a hero and as surly in the service of King and Country as though falling on some stricken field.
Chatby Memorial
Masters, Sidney Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 6 APRIL 1916
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 1April 1916:
The parents of Private S. Masters, Somerset Light Infantry, who live in Park Street, Yeovil, received news on Monday that he had died from gunshot wounds received in action on March 13th. Private Masters, before joining the Army, was employed on the farm of Mr. James, Newton, and also at the Gas Works, leaving the works to join the Army.
Interred in Etaples Military Cemetery - Grave V.A.5A
Matthews, Arthur Donald Taylor
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 APRIL 1918
PRIVATE 1st/5th SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 24 April 1918:
Much sympathy is extended to Alderman J. Matthews, J.P., and Mrs. Matthews, The Avenue, in the great bereavement they have just suffered, official news being received that their younger son, Private Donald Matthews of the Somersets, was killed in action in Palestine on the 9th inst. Previous to the war, Private Matthews was articled to Mr. Athelstan Rendall, M.P., solicitor, Princes Street, and had a promising career in front of him. On the outbreak of hostilities he joined the Territorials and went to India with the Wessex Division in October 1914. After two years service in India he was transferred with his Regiment to Palestine, and had been through the whole of General Allenby’s successful campaign against the Turks. He paid the supreme sacrifice during the recent heavy fighting, in which West Country troops took such a prominent part, and at the time of his death he was within a week of his 22nd birthday. Of a singularly open and bright disposition, Private Matthews had a host of friends, and the news of his untimely end will be received with the deepest possible regret in the town. The severity of the blow to Mr. and Mrs. Matthews is intensified by the fact that they have already lost one son in the war - Private Percy Matthews, of the Sherwood Foresters, laying down his life for his country in France in 1915. Three other sons are on active service, one of whom is recovering from the effects of gas poisoning.
Interred in Ramleh War Cemetery - Grave N.26.
Matthews, Percy
Age: Unknown
DIED 26 JUNE 1915
PRIVATE 1st/5th BATTALION, SHERWOOD FORESTERS
The Western Gazette 9 July 1915:
News has been received that Private Percy Matthews, of the Sherwood Foresters (T.F.), son of Mrs. and Mrs. Matthews, “Llanvair,” The Avenue, is missing and very little hope is held out for his safety. Previous to the outbreak of war he assisted his father in the work of the Prudential Assurance Society in the town and district, and enlisted with his brother, Private Harold Matthews, in the Sherwood Foresters. He has been at the Front with his regiment for the past four months. Private P, Matthews, who was of a very jovial disposition was a member of the Yeovil Liberal Club.
The Western Gazette 16 July 1915:
Reliable information has now been received that Private Percy Matthews, of one of the Territorial Battalions of the Sherwood Foresters, and one of the sons of Mr. J. Matthews, of The Avenue, serving with the Army in France, has been killed. It would appear that the Battalion was on trench duty, and that Private Matthews, who was reported last week as “missing,” and some comrades were having tea outside on the reverse of the trench. A shell, which dropped short exploded over the party, killing Private Matthews, and others, and wounding more. He had been at the Front for some months and had taken part on some dangerous enterprises, one of which included work in listening patrols sent out at night in front of enemy trenches. The greatest sympathy has been expressed with Mr. and Mrs. Matthews and family in their loss.
Interred in Sanctuary Wood Cemetery - Grave V.C.20.
Matthews, Wilfred Vernon
Age: Unknown
DIED 1 OCTOBER 1918
MILITARY CROSS
SECOND LIEUTENANT 11th BATTALION, BORDER REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 11 October 1918:
Second Lieutenant Wilfred V. Matthews of the Border Regiment, son of Alderman and Mrs. Matthews, of The Avenue, was killed in action in France on October 1st. Official news to the effect, together with a message of sympathy from the Army Council, was received by Mr. and Mrs. Matthews on Tuesday morning. The deceased officer joined up in March 1916, and was attached to the Dorsets, being subsequently transferred to the Wiltshires and promoted corporal. He went to France about two years ago, and participated in some very severe fighting but came through unscathed. He conducted himself so well in the ranks as to win the notice of his officers, and he was taken out of the trenches and sent home for training for a commission. After undergoing the usual training he was gazetted as Second Lieutenant in the Border Regiment and returned to France. His Battalion of the Border Regiment is attached to one of the most famous Divisions in the British Army and Lieutenant Matthews was undoubtedly killed in the recent heavy attacks on the Hindenburg Line. He was home on leave about five weeks ago, and had only been back in France about a month when he met his death. The deceased officer was well-known and respected in Yeovil, and before joining up was a cashier at Parr’s Bank, Dorchester. Widespread sympathy is felt with Alderman and Mrs. Matthews and family in the heavy blows they have sustained in the war. This is the third son who has died for King and Country, and two other sons are still serving.
The Western Gazette 18 October 1918:
With regard to the death in action of Second Lieutenant Wilfred Matthews, reported last week, Alderman and Mrs. Matthews have received the following letter from the Commanding Officer of his Battalion:- “Will you please accept my sincere sympathy, and that of the whole Battalion, in the loss you have sustained by the death in action of your son. He was very gallantly leading his platoon in an attack, when he was instantaneously killed by a machine gun bullet. He had previously performed very good work, and proved himself a fearless and most resourceful leader, so that his loss is keenly felt by his Company and by the whole Battalion. I hope that the knowledge that your son met his death whilst carrying out his duty at the head of his men in an attack on the enemy - literally dying for his country - can prove some consolation to you in your bereavement.” The deceased officer leaves a young widow who is the fourth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R Bicknell, Allingham House, with whom the deepest sympathy is felt.
The Western Gazette 25 October 1918:
Mrs. W.V. Matthews of Allingham House, near Yeovil, has received the following telegram “O.H.M.S. Buckingham Palace. The King and Queen deeply regret the loss you and the Army have sustained by the death of your husband in the service of his country. Their Majesties sincerely sympathise with you in your sorrow. Keeper of the Privy Purse”
The Western Gazette 21 February 1919:
On October 1st 1918, Second Lieutenant Wilfred Matthews, son of Alderman and Mrs. Matthews, The Avenue, was killed in action and shortly afterwards was announced the award of the Military Cross to the deceased officer for gallant conduct during the crossing of the Somme on September 5th 1918. This posthumous honour is now confirmed in the supplement of the London Gazette of January 31st 1919, which contains the following:- Military Cross - T2nd Lieut. Wilfred Vernon Matthews, 11th Battalion Border Regiment, attached 1/5th Battalion T.F., “when crossing the Somme at Brie, on September 5th 1918, he attacked and captured two machine guns that were hampering our advance. He displayed great gallantry and tactical skill in the method of operation, which was completely successful at the cost of few casualties in spite of heavy artillery and machine gun fire.”
Interred in Bellicourt British Cemetery - Grave VI.R.2.
Maunder, Rochford George
Age: Unknown
DIED 28 MARCH 1918
SERGEANT 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Interred in Roclincourt Valley Cemetery - Grave IV.B.9 Inscribed in the Somerset County Roll of Honour in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Melhuish, T S
Age: Unknown
THE IDENTITY OF TS MELHUISH HAS NOT BEEN ESTABLISHED WITH CERTAINTY
Melhuish, William John
Age: Unknown
DIED 5 JUNE 1916
PRIVATE ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY
H.M.S.”HAMPSHIRE
Private W.J. Melhuish-Titmus, whose parents live at York Place, Kingston, Yeovil, was one of the crew of H.M.S. Hampshire recently lost at sea with Lord Kitchener on board. The young soldier was 20 years of age.
The Western Gazette 30 June 1916
Membery, Bertram John
Age: Unknown
DIED 27 MARCH 1918
PRIVATE 10th BATTALION, ROYAL DUBLIN FUSILIERS
The Western Gazette 17 May 1918:
Private Bert Membury, Civil Service Rifles, attached Dublin Fusiliers, has been missing since March 22nd and enquiries made through the usual channels have so far failed to trace him, though it is hoped he is a prisoner. Private Membury is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Membury of Middle Street, and, before joining the Artists’ Rifles, was a buyer at Selfridge’s, Oxford Street, London.
The Western Gazette 22 November 1918:
Mr. and Mrs. J. Membury, of Middle Street, have now received information which leaves little doubt that their elder son, Private B. Membury, Civil Service Rifles, reported missing on March 22nd is now dead. A letter from the Red Cross Enquiry Department says that information given by a comrade is to the effect that he saw Private B. Membury instantaneously killed by a machine gun bullet near Croisalles. Private Membury who was 37 years of age, was before joining up, engaged as a buyer for Messrs. Selfridges’, London.
Panel 79 and 80 Pozieres Memorial
Milton, John
Age: Unknown
DIED 26 OCTOBER 1917
PRIVATE 15th BATTALION, ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE REGIMENT
Panel 23 to 28 and 163A. Tyne Cot Memorial
The Western Gazette 30 November 1917:
Mr. John Milton, steward of the Ivel Club, has received the sad intelligence that his son, Jack, a private in the - Warwickshire Cavalry, has been missing for a month. Private Milton has been in France since the outbreak of the war, during which he has twice been on a short home leave. Private Milton, who has a wife and four children, is 36 years of age, and has seen 16 years service with the Colours.
Milton, Thomas
Age: Unknown
DIED 31 OCTOBER 1918
MILITARY MEDAL
SAPPER ROYAL ENGINEERS
7th DIVISIONAL SIGNAL COMPANY
The Western Gazette 15 November 1918:
Mr. James Milton, the well-known and popular steward of the “Ivel” Club, has received news this week that his son Sapper Thomas Milton, R.E., M.M., has been killed. Sapper Milton was an “Old Contemptible.” He had served eight years in the Army previous to war, and as a Reservist was mobilised in the early days, going to France with the Expeditionary Force, and had served four years and two months. In a letter to his father, an officer says that he was talking to his comrades outside a trench and when he had finished he jumped into the trench. Immediately there was an explosion, whether from a bomb in the trench or carried by Sapper Milton is not clear, but he was so seriously injured that he died within five minutes. Sapper Milton won the Military Medal in the Somme battles of 1916, and had recently been further recommended for his gallantry. Thirty-four years of age, he was married when on home leave about 14 months ago, but there is no family.
Interred in Giavera British Cemetery, Arcade, Italy.
Grave - Plot 2. Row H. Grave 1.
Mitchell, Earle
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 14 December 1917:
Private Earle Mitchell, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Mitchell, of the Britannia Inn, was killed in Palestine on November 23rd, when serving with the Somerset L.I.(T.) and much sympathy has been expressed with the bereaved parents. As a boy he was a chorister at the Parish Church, and later, when going into employment at the Nautilus Works, was a keen footballer, and was captain of Nautilus Works’ Reserve Team.
Interred in Jerusalem War Cemetery - Grave B.78.
Munckton, Edmund James
Age: Unknown
DIED 2 SEPTEMBER 1918
LANCE CORPORAL 10th BATTALION, SOUTH WALES BORDERERS
The Western Gazette 4 October 1918:
Mrs. R. Munckton, of 5 Smith’s Terrace, Newtown, has received information that her third son, Corporal E. J. Munckton, of the South Wales Borderers, has been killed on the battlefield. Corporal Munckton joined up at the beginning of the war, and has been in France since 1914. In a letter to his wife, his officer states that he did not hesitate in giving his life for the Motherland. Mrs. Munckton has four other sons serving. Three are on active service, and Private F. Munckton, who has been twice wounded, is now in a Bristol Hospital.
Panel 6. Vis-En-Artois Memorial.
Newis, Caleb Edney
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 SEPTEMBER 1916
LANCE CORPORAL 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 13 August 1915:
An intimation was received on Saturday morning that Private C.E. Newis, of the 6th Somersets had been wounded and taken to a base hospital. An old Volunteer and Yeoman, Private Newis of Preston Road, joined the 6th Somersets at the outbreak of war with other members of the Yeovil Company of the National Reserve.
The Western Gazette 29 September 1916:
Information has been conveyed to the relatives of Lance Corporal C.E. Newis, of Preston Road, from a friend of his serving in the Somersets at the Front, that he has been missing since an attack a week or so ago. The writer adds, that he and his friends had great hopes that Corporal Newis had been wounded and had been taken down the line somewhere where he was unable to write.
The Western Gazette 20 October 1916:
Official intimation has been received by the relatives of Lance Corporal C.E. Newis, of Preston Road, that he has been missing since an attack on September 16th. The letter also received from the adjutant of his Battalion, after enquiries made amongst the men of his platoon, says that he can give no further information than that contained in the official notification.
The Western Gazette 27 October 1916:
The Union Jack was hung on the pulpit at the Vicarage Street Wesleyan Church on Sunday in memory of the late Corporal C.E. Newis of the Somerset Light Infantry. Special reference was made by the Rev. W.M.J. Noble, to Corporal Newis’s death, he being a member of the congregation, and had passed through all the classes of the Sunday School. Sympathy was also expressed with the relatives.
The Western Gazette 3 November 1916:
Notification was received on Monday morning that Lance Corporal C.E. Newis, elder son of the late Mr. J.H. Newis and Mrs. Newis of Preston Road, was killed in action on September 16th. Lance Corporal Newis, who formerly served in the cyclist section of the old F Company, 2nd V.B., Somerset L.I., and afterwards in D Squadron, West Somerset Yeomanry, was a member of the Yeovil Company of the National Reserve, which at the outbreak of war joined a service Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry, which has made a lasting name for itself during the war, and which will always be remembered with pride in Yeovil owing to the number of well-known men from the borough and district who have bled and died in its ranks. Corporal Newis was in partnership with his brother in the business of corn merchants and millers, carried on for many years by their father, when he left soon after the outbreak of war to commence the service of King and country which has now gloriously terminated with his life. He was 34 years of age, and leaves a widow and two young children, with whom the utmost sympathy has been expressed.
Pier and Face 2A. Thiepval Memorial
Newman, A H
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 APRIL 1917
GUNNER ROYAL GARRISON ARTILLERY
134th SIEGE BATTERY
The Western Gazette 20 April 1917:
The sad news has been received by Mrs. Newman, of Eastland Road, that her youngest son Gunner A.H. Newman, of the Royal Garrison Artillery, serving with the Balkan Expeditionary Force, has died of wounds on April 9th. The deceased soldier who was 34 years of age, enlisted about 18 months ago, and had been on active service in the Balkans, since August 1916. He was very much liked by all who knew him, he having been a member of the Congregational Church choir. Prior to enlisting he was an insurance agent. Much sympathy is felt for his relatives.
Interred in Sarigol Military Cemetery, Kriston , Greece
Grave - B.218.
Newman, Walter Henry
Age: Unknown
DIED 28 OCTOBER 1918
PRIVATE 13th HUSSARS
The Western Gazette 15 November 1918:
Mrs. W. Newman, of 3 Cecil Street, has received an official notification that her husband is presumed to have drowned on October 28th whilst on homeward journey from Mesopotamia.
The Western Gazette 13 December 1918:
Mrs. W. Newman, of 3 Cecil Street, has received a notification from the War Office, confirming the official report she recently received to the effect that her husband Private Walter Newman, was drowned on his way home from Mesopotamia, and that his body has been recovered from the Tigris. Mrs. Newman has also received a Royal message of sympathy.
Panel 1 Basra Memorial
Norman, Daniel Britton
Age: Unknown
DIED 26 MAY 1916
PRIVATE ARMY SERVICE CORPS
The Western Gazette 2 June 1916:
Much sympathy is felt for Mrs. E. Norman, of 16 Summerhouse Road, on the death of her youngest son, Private Daniel Briton Norman. Private Norman joined the Army Service Corps about seven weeks ago, and had nearly three weeks training, when he was taken seriously ill. He was conveyed to the Royal Herbert Hospital, Woolwich, where he died on Friday last. Before joining the Army he was employed as a fitter by Mr. A.E. Wheller, of the Hendford Motor Garage, and was 25 years of age. - Mrs. Norman and Mr. and Mrs. Wheller, 64 Hendford, wish to thank their many friends for the kind sympathy shown to them in their sad bereavement.
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave B.263.
Norris, Frederick James
Age: Unknown
DIED 3 MAY 1918
GUNNER ROYAL GARRISON ARTILLERY
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave B.943.Husband of Emily Katherine Norris, 7 Park Way, Kingston, Yeovil
Ostler, G
Age: 49
DIED 15 DECEMBER 1916
CORPORAL ROYAL ENGINEERS 19th SECTION, RAILWAY OPERATING DIVISION
The Western Gazette 29 December 1916:
News has been received by Mrs. G. Ostler, of Southville, Eastland Road, on the death in Salonica of her husband, Sec. Corpl. G. Ostler, of the Royal Engineers, from enteric fever. Sec. Corpl. Ostler, who had only been on active service a short time, leaves a widow and seven children, with whom much sympathy is felt.
Interred in Salonika (Lembet Road) Military Cemetery
Grave - 731
Ostler, George Frank
Age: Unknown
DIED 24 FEBRUARY 1916
CORPORAL 8th BATTALION, ROYAL BERKSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 3 March 1916:
The death is reported at a base hospital in France, of Corporal G.F. Ostler, of the 8th Royal Berks Regiment, the sad intelligent being conveyed in a letter, from an Army Chaplain to his mother, who resides at 72 Eastland Road, Yeovil. From letters received by his relatives it seems that he sustained severe injuries in the legs through being struck by a shell whilst in the trenches. He joined the Army eight months ago, being at the time in employment at Newbury, and had been at the Front about two months. Before going to Newbury he was employed by Mr. J. Vincent in his outfitting business in Middle Street.
Interred in Lapugnoy Military Cemetery - Grave I.E.37.
Ostler, Herbert Percival
Age: Unknown
DIED 6 SEPTEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 15th BATTALION, HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 27 September 1918:
Information has been received that Private H.P. Ostler, - Hants Regiment, and formerly a clerk employed in the publishing department of the Western Gazette has made the supreme sacrifice on the battlefields of France. The following is an extract for a letter received from a comrade by his parents:- “It is with deepest sorrow that I have to inform you of your lad’s sad death, which occurred on the morning of September 6th. I found him lying on the battlefield where he had just died in action, fighting bravely for home and country. I trust you will not grieve too much, for he knew no suffering.” Private Bert Ostler joined up in April 1917, and had been in France six months. He was just 19 years of age, and when at home was a member of Yeovil Boys’ Brigade. His many friends have heard the news with deep regret. The parents and family (3 Harfield Terrace, South Street) desire to thank the numerous friends who have kindly expressed to them their sincere sympathy in their bereavement. Mr. and Mrs. Ostler have two other older sons serving in the Army - one in Palestine in the Royal Engineers, and another in India with the Somerset Light Infantry.
Interred in Voormezeele Enclosure No. 3 - Grave XVI.J.6.
Palmer, Harold John
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 AUGUST 1917
SERGEANT 2nd/4th BATTALION, ROYAL BERKSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 14 September 1917:
Anxiety is felt regarding Sergeant Harold Palmer of the Royal Berks Regiment, who, according to letters received by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.M. Palmer of Woodland Grove, is reported missing. Sergeant E.W. Clark, writing on the 25th ult., states:- “The Battalion made an attack on the German lines on August 22nd and after a great deal of hard fighting with advancing and retiring, the Battalion was relieved, and up to now Harold has not returned.. He was last seen carrying out his duty, and as stragglers are still coming in we are very hopeful that many of the missing may yet return.” Still recently Mr. and Mrs. Palmer have received a letter from the Captain of their son’s Regiment, stating that he had hoped to have obtained some definite news. “The Company never sustained a greater loss,” he writes, “for he was undoubtedly one of our best sergeants. He did his work loyally and well and was always cheerful. I sincerely trust that even yet we may hear something definite concerning him, and I beg you to accept my heartfelt sympathy in these your days of anxiety.”
The Western Gazette 9 August 1918:
The greatest sympathy is felt for Mr. and Mrs. W.M. Palmer, of Rockford, Woodland Grove, who on Saturday received notification from the Record Office, Warwick, that no further news having been received relative to their youngest son, Sergeant Harold John Palmer (- Royal Berkshire Regiment) who was posted missing on August 22nd 1917, the Army Council were regretfully constrained to conclude he was dead, and that his death took place on August 22nd 1917, or since. Enclosed with the communication was a message of sympathy from the King and Queen, and an expression of the regret of the Army Council at Sergeant Palmer’s death in his country’s service. The late Sergeant Palmer was 24 years of age.
Interred in Tyne Cot Cemetery - Grave III.D.24.
Parmiter, Robert
Age: Unknown
DIED 11 JUNE 1915
LANCE CORPORAL 2nd/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 25 June 1915:
Lance Corporal Robert Parmiter, of the 5th Somerset Light Infantry died on June 11th at Sale Barracks, Rangoon, Burmah, India, from dysentery, he was aged 22, and the fourth son of Mrs. T. Parmiter, of 14 Great Western Terrace, to whom sympathy is extended. This is the first death reported amongst the Yeovil “Terriers” although two or thee men from the surrounding district have died.
The Western Gazette 16 July 1915:
Mrs. Parmiter, of 14 Great Western Terrace, has received a letter from Captain Ward Jackson. 2/5th Somerset Light Infantry referring to the death of Lance Corporal Parmiter, her son, whose death was reported recently. Lance Corporal Parmiter was in Captain Ward Jackson’s Company and in his letter the officer says:- “He was one of my Company and will greatly be missed by us all. He was much respected by his brother N.C.O.’s and liked by the men, and was a promising N.C.O., always cheerful and anxious to do his duty under any circumstances. Lance Corporal Parmiter was a great credit to you and his country, and died just as much for his country as any other soldier who dies on the battlefield.” Captain Ward Jackson adds that the dead corporal was buried at Maymyo with full military honours. Another letter from Sergeant R.S. Ostler was also written on behalf of the deceased’s platoon, saying that he was exceedingly popular with all his platoon and by all with whom he came in contact.
Interred in Taukkyan War Cemetery, Myanmar - Grave 27.J.8.
Parsons, Arthur Edward
Age: Unknown
DIED 26 SEPTEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, SUFFOLK REGIMENT
The sad information has been received by Mrs. W. Parsons, of Roseville, Mudford Road, that her son Private Arthur Edward Parsons, of the Suffolk Regiment had been killed in action during the recent fighting in France. Deceased who was only 19 years of age, enlisted shortly after war broke out. Prior to that he was employed in the engineering department of Messrs. Petters’ Nautilus Works.
Panel 40 to 41 and 162 to 162A. Tyne Cot Memorial
Parsons, Arthur John
Age: Unknown
DIED 2 AUGUST 1916
PRIVATE ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS
17th FIELD AMBULANCE
The Western Gazette25 August 1916:
On Tuesday afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. S. Parsons, of 22 St. Michael’s Road, Yeovil, received notification from the War Office of the death of their eldest son, Private Arthur J. Parsons, of the R.A.M.C., British Expeditionary Force, the cause of death which occurred on August 2nd, being “Accidental drowning.” Accompanying the notification was a letter signed by Mr. D. Lloyd George, Secretary of State for War, expressing the deep sympathy of the King and Queen with the family in their sorrow. The late Priv. Parsons, who was 25 years of age was by trade a glove cutter. He was a native of Milborne Port, where he actively identified himself with the Wesleyan Church, and was a Sunday School teacher. He was also a member of the Wesleyan Boys’ Brigade, being a sergeant. On the family’s removal to Yeovil he became a member of the Pen Mill Adult School, a movement in which he took a keen interest. He was also a member of the Vicarage Street Wesleyan Chapel. At the outbreak of war he was working in the North of England, but about six months afterwards patriotically offered his services to his King and country, and was accepted for the R.A.M.C. He subsequently went to France, and his frequent letters showed that he was doing excellent work amongst the wounded. His death will be regretted by his many friends in Milborne Port and Yeovil, by whom he was held in general respect and esteem.
Interred in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery - Grave VII.D.18A.
Parsons, Harrie
Age: Unknown
DIED 5 JUNE 1916
OFFICER’S STEWARD 3RD CLASS ROYAL NAVY
H.M.S. ”HAMPSHIRE”
The Western Gazette 23 June 1916:
PHOTOGRAPH
Harry Parsons, officer’s cook, third son of Mr. and Mrs. Parsons, Queen Street, Yeovil, lost on H.M.S. Hampshire, aged 19 years.
Panel 17 Plymouth Naval Memorial
Partridge, Arthur John
Age: Unknown
DIED 27 JANUARY 1916
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 11 February 1916:
Another Yeovilian to meet his death in action is Private A.J. Partridge, who is reported to have died on January 27th from shell shock received whilst serving in the trenches with the 8th Somersets. His widow, who resides at 27 Camborne Grove, and is left with two children, has received many letters of sympathy, including one from the Wesleyan chaplain, who officiated at the burial of the deceased, and one from the late Private’s comrade, both of whom pay warm tribute to his conduct in the trenches. Describing how the deceased met his death, the Wesleyan chaplain said that he was affected by the shock of a shell falling near him; he was not hit in any way, and was conscious to the last. The late Private Partridge gave up his employment at Messrs. Lock’s to enlist in January 1915, and went to the Front in September of the same year.
Interred in Cite Bonjean Military Cemetery, Armentieres.
Grave IX.E.52.
Patten, Frederick John
Age: Unknown
DIED 4 OCTOBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 9 November 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. Patten, of Hendford, have received information that their son, Private F. Patten, of the Hampshire Regiment, was killed in action on October 4th. Private Patten enlisted in February 1915, and had only been at the Front a few weeks. Prior to joining up he was employed as a clerk at Messrs. Aplin & Barrett’s. He was 19 years of age and had only been married three months. Much sympathy has been expressed with the parents in their sad bereavement.
Interred in Poelcapelle British Cemetery - Grave XIV.E.8.
Payne, Wilfred Stanley George
Age: Unknown
DIED 25 SEPTEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, GRENADIER GUARDS
The Western Gazette 27 October 1916:
Much regret has been expressed with Mrs. Payne, of 175 Huish, in the death in action of her eldest son, Private W. Payne, of the Grenadier Guards. Private Payne, who joined the Grenadier Guards soon after the out break of hostilities, was, prior to enlistment, employed as a shop assistant at the Co-operative Stores. He was a well-known athlete, having played for Yeovil Thursday’s Football Club. Private Payne’s father, who holds the rank of Sergeant, and who is old soldier, is now doing duty as a drill-instructor at Taunton Barracks.
Memorial 73. Guards’ Cemetery, Lesboeufs.
Pennell, Bertie
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 OCTOBER 1916
PRIVATE 14th BATTALION, WORCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 17 November 1916:
Private Bertie Pennell, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Pennell, of 1 Dampier Street was killed in action in France on or about the 25th October. Priv. Pennell was working in Wales at the outbreak of war, and enlisted in the Worcestershire Regiment. His wife has received the following letter:- “I take the opportunity of writing these few lines to assure you of the deepest sympathy of the officers, non-commissioned officers and men of the - Battalion, and especially of A Company. As his platoon officer, I can honestly say that your husband was one of the best and most trustworthy men in my platoon to have in the trenches and in camp, and there are not many men one can say of that. You have one great consolation in your sorrow that there is One above who cares for him now that he has passed the barrier into happiness, and Who cares for all who have done their duty loyally and nobly. What duty or sacrifice is more loyal and noble than to lay down one’s life for King and country. Private Pennell, who was 30 years of age, leaves a widow and four children.
Interred in Knightsbridge Cemetery, Mesnil-Martinsart.
Grave F.56.
Pennell, Reginald
Age: Unknown
DIED 2 JULY 1916
CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 14 July 1916:
News has been received that Corporal R. Pennell, of the Somerset L.I., son of Mrs. R. Pennell, of Park Street, Yeovil, has died of wounds received in action. Corpl. Pennell joined the Army soon after the outbreak of war, and having had his training, went on active service where he quickly gained promotion.
Interred in Couin British Cemetery - Grave II.A.3.
Phillips, Frederick Henry John
Age: Unknown
DIED 4 APRIL 1917
PRIVATE ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS
The Western Gazette 1 June 1917
Mrs. H. Phillips, of 23 Newtown, Yeovil, has received a telegram stating that her husband, Private H. Phillips, of the R.A.M.C., is reported as “missing believed drowned” on the 4th May. Private Phillips, who joined the Army soon after the outbreak of hostilities was well-known and highly respected in the district, and was a member of the Yeovil Men’s V.A.D. He had seen considerable service in France, and had become invalided home as a result of illness. He was also a prominent member of the Salvation Army Band, and when home on leave had played on several occasions. Private Phillips was, prior to enlisting, employed in one of the glove factories in the town. His brother, Private E. Phillips, who was also a member of the Men’s V.A.D., joined the Army at the beginning of the year, and is now in France. Much sympathy is felt for the wife and family.
The Western Gazette 27 July 1917:
Recently it was announced that Private H. Phillips was believed to have been drowned, in consequence of the torpedoing of the Transylvania. During the past week a report affirming that belief has been received, and in view of this a memorial service was conducted by Adjutant Newton at the Salvation Army Temple on Sunday evening, the deceased having been a member of the well-known band of the local corps - Bandmaster Bicknell sympathetically alluded to the sad event on behalf of the band and corps, expressed sincere sympathy with the deceased’s wife and parents in their time of sorrow - Adjutant Newton gave an address in the course of which he paid high tribute to the deceased’s qualities.
Savona Memorial, Italy.
Phillips, William Arthur
Age: Unknown
DIED 21 MARCH 1918
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 5 April 1918:
Private W. Phillips, of the Somerset Light Infantry, whose parents live at 19 Great Western Terrace, has died as a result of wounds received in action in France on the 22nd march. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved parents.
Faubourg D’Amiens Cemetery, Arras - Grave VII.B.10.
Pike, Abendago (ben) Richard
Age: Unknown
DIED 24 AUGUST 1914
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 25 September 1914:
Private Richard Abendago (“Ben”) Pike, reservist of the Dorset Regiment, was on Wednesday officially stated by the War Office to have been killed. Deceased, who lived at 35 Great Western Terrace, Yeovil, leaves a widow and three young children, the eldest being only six. About a week ago his widow received notification that the deceased was wounded and missing, and on Wednesday morning came the fateful news that he had died from wounds sustained at Wurns, near Mons, France. A brother of the deceased, who was only 28 years of age, stated to a Western Gazette representative, that he came from a “fighting family” for his father served in all 29 years in the Somerset Light Infantry, and counted nearly a dozen relatives who were in the Army, including two brothers, Privates W. and B. Pike, who are in the Yeovil Company of the Territorials, and the former of whom has volunteered for active service.
La Ferte-Sous-Jouarre Memorial
Pike, B
Age: Unknown
THE IDENTITY OF B PIKE HAS NOT BEEN ESTABLISHED WITH CERTAINTY
Pinney, Edward
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 JUNE 1916
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, WILTSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 4 August 1916:
Mrs. Bradford, of Hendford Cottage, has been informed that Private E. Pinney (2nd Wilts Regiment) died at a prisoner’s internment camp in Germany during the month of June. The information was forwarded by his corporal, who, however, could give no details as he himself was away at a working camp. Parcels were sent to the deceased right up to the time of his death by Mrs. Bradford (including some of his friends at the Western Gazette where he had previously been employed), and letters and postcards received from him showed his evident appreciation of the gifts.
(He was 38 years of age, the son of Richard and Jane Pinney, information taken from a headstone in Yeovil Cemetery)
Interred in Niederzwehren Cemetery, Kassel, Germany.
Grave VI.L.10.
Pinney, Ira Clifford Stanley
Age: 22
DIED 4 NOVEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 1st/6th DEVONSHIRE REGIMENT
Died at 33 British General Hospital, Basra.
Interred in Basra War Cemetery - Grave I.S.10.
Pipe, Ralph Leonard
Age: Unknown
DIED 2 MARCH 1916
SAPPER ROYAL ENGINEERS
2nd/2nd (WEST RIDING) FIELD COMPANY
The Western Gazette 10 March 1916:
Another Yeovilian to fall in defence of his country’s honour is Sapper R.L. Pipe, the news of whose death at the Front on March 2nd, has been received by his widowed mother, who resides at 27 West Hendford. Although the deceased soldier has not been living in the town for some years past he will be well remembered. Having served a term of apprenticeship as a linotype operator on the staff of the “Western Gazette” he removed to the north some six years ago, and at the time of the outbreak of war, was working on the staff of the “Sheffield Daily Telegraph.” He relinquished a lucrative position to join the Army, in May last year and went to the Front six months later with the 2nd/2nd West Riding Field Company, R.E. Deceased was in his 25th year, and his other brother is serving in the Navy. Letters detailing the circumstances attending Private Pipe’s death have been received by the bereaved mother. Writing on the day of his death, Second Lieutenant Hutson, one of the deceased’s officers says; “heavy shelling of our billet had just begun, and it was the third shell which killed your son. It was just after breakfast and he was washing himself at the time. He took what he thought was sufficient cover to ensure his safety, but, unfortunately the shell struck the ground near to him. I cannot tell you how much the officers and men feel his loss, for he was a good, quiet fellow, and a most reliable man, and he was also one of the best sappers and one I could put with confidence on any job. His loss is universally mourned by every member of his company, for they feel they have lost in every sense of the word, a good comrade. A similar letter has been received from Major Alan C. Howard, the commanding officer.
Interred in Ypres Reservoir Cemetery - Grave I.B.28.
Pippard, Imbert Stanley
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 AUGUST 1916
LANCE CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 25 August 1916:
On Saturday morning Mr. and Mrs. G.W. Pippard, of Watercombe, received notification from the War Office, that their eldest son, Lance Corporal Imbert Stanley Pippard, had died in France from the effects of a Hun gas attack. Accompanying the notification was letter signed by Mr. D. Lloyd George, Secretary of State for War, expressing the sympathy of the King and Queen with the family in their sorrow. Lance Corporal Pippard was formerly employed as an assistant to the professional on the Yeovil and South Somerset Golf Links were he was famously known as “Bertie.” He joined the 1st Somerset Regiment about March 1914, about five months before the outbreak of the war and went to France in November 1914, and apart from a short time spent in Leicester Hospital, where he was admitted suffering from inflammation of the lungs, he has been in France ever since. Lance Corporal Pippard was in his 22nd year. He was a genial and cheery young man and many will regret to hear of his early death/
Interred in Ferme-Olivier Cemetery - Grave Plot 1. Row C. Grave 9
Plympton, James
Age: 41
DIED 31 JANUARY 1916
PRIVATE 7th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Husband of Elizabeth Plympton, 20 Queen Street, Yeovil.
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave B.2728
Poole, Frederick Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 OCTOBER 1918
SAPPER ROYAL ENGINEERS
496th KENT FIELD COMPANY
The Western Gazette 29 November 1918:
Mr. and Mrs. C. Poole, of 10 Seaton Road, have just received information that their eldest son, Private F.C. Poole, has died at the 47th Stationary Hospital, Gaza, Palestine, from malaria fever and pneumonia. Private Poole joined the 2nd/5th Somerset Light Infantry three years ago from the Post office, Cheddenfold, Surrey, and proceeded to India in March the following spring, and from India to Palestine where he went through all the fighting with General Allenby’s troops. He has two other brothers serving, one in Palestine and one in India. Mr. and Mrs. C. Poole of 10 Seaton Road, wish to tender their sincere thanks to all kind friends for their tokens of sympathy extended them in their irreparable loss sustained by the death of their eldest son.
The report in the Western Gazette refers to Private F.C. Poole enlisting in the 2/5th Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry. This Territorial Battalion went India and many personnel were transferred to other battalions and units to serve in the Mesopotamian and Palestine Campaigns. There is no record of a Private F.C. Poole in the Soldiers Died in the Great War – Somerset Light Infantry in the 2nd/5th or any other Somerset Battalion. Inscribed in the Somerset Roll of Honour is ‘Poole, Frederick Charles, Sapper, R.E., Yeovil …..Page 176’. The 496 Field Company Royal Engineers served in the 75 Division formed in Palestine in August 1918 in which Division the 1/5th Somerset Light Infantry was also serving. It is possible therefore that Frederick Charles Poole originally joined the 2/5th Battalion and then transferred to the Royal Engineers, but in reporting his death in the Western Gazette there was some confusion over the unit in which he was serving at his death bearing in mind another brother was serving in Palestine possibly in the Somerset Light Infantry.
Interred in Gaza War Cemetery - Grave XXVII.E.I.
Poole, Maurice Arthur
Age: Unknown
DIED 25 JUNE 1919
AIR MECHANIC 2ND CLASS ROYAL AIR FORCE
“X” AIRCRAFT DEPOT
The Western Gazette 11 July 1919:
Official intimation was received by his parents on Saturday that Second Air Mechanic Maurice Arthur Poole, aged 18, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. A.G Poole of 21 Orchard Street, has died at Aboukir, Egypt, from double pneumonia. He had been in the Air Force a year last April, and Egypt about 11 months. It was only on Friday that a letter was received from the deceased dated June 17th, stating that he was well and hoped shortly to return home. Much sympathy is felt with Mr. and Mrs. Poole, especially in view of the fact that their elder son Private William Percy Poole, a telegraphist in the Northumberland Fusiliers died of enteric fever at Basra Hospital, Mesopotamia on Sept. 14th 1918, aged 20 years.
Interred in Alexandria (Hadra) War Memorial Cemetery
Grave B.144.
Poole, Percy William
Age: 20
DIED 14 SEPTEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 4th BATTALION, NORTHUMBERLAND FUSILIERS
Died of enteric fever in Basra Hospital, eldest son of Arthur George and Ellen Poole, 21 Orchard Street, Yeovil
Interred in Tehran War Cemetery - Grave V.D. 9.
Pound, John
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 DECEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 3 January 1919:
Private J.H. Pound, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Pound, of 45 Victoria Road, died from pneumonia in Egypt on December 22nd. The deceased soldier joined the Territorials in the first few weeks of the war, and went with the Wessex Division to India. Subsequently, he was transferred with his regiment to Palestine, where he took part in General Allenby’s great victory over the Turks. He was 30 years of age, and previous to the war was a keen sportsman, being a playing member, first of the Yeovil A’s and latterly of Petters’ F.C.
Interred in Deir El Belah War Cemetery, Israel.
Grave - C.28.
Powney, Joseph
Age: Unknown
DIED 6 JULY 1918
GUNNER ROYAL ARTILLERY
“C”BATTERY, 217TH BRIGADE
The Western Gazette 12 July 1918:
Gunner J. Powney, R.F.A., son of Mr. and Mrs. Powney, Grove Avenue, is reported to be lying seriously ill in hospital in India, suffering from heat stroke. Before joining up three years ago, he was a member of Messrs. Aplin & Barrett’s clerical staff.
Karachi 1914-1918 War Memorial, Pakistan.
Priddle, George William
Age: Unknown
DIED 14 APRIL 1918
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 3 May 1918:
Mr. G.W. Priddle, of 9 Hillside Terrace, has been informed that his son, Private George Wm. Priddle, of the Somerset L.I. (Lewis Machine Gun Section) has been killed by a shell in France. Prior to enlistment, about 18 months ago, Private Priddle was employed at Messrs. Whitby & Sons as a printer. The deceased soldier had been at the Front about 13 months.
Panel 3 Ploegsteert Memorial.
Purchase, Herbert Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 20 JULY 1918
PRIVATE 2nd/4th BATTALION, HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 23 August 1918:
General sympathy has been expressed with Mrs. H. Purchase, of 29 Percy Road, Yeovil, in the severe blow she has sustained by the death in action of her husband, Private Herbert Charles Purchase, of the Hants Regiment. Private Purchase joined the Oxford and Bucks Regiment in April 1917, but was subsequently transferred to the Hants, and drafted to Egypt in August of that year. There he saw considerable fighting. In June he was sent to France, and had only served there about six weeks, when he met his death at the age of 35 years. The late Private Purchase was well-known and highly respected in a wide circle of friends in Yeovil, and previous to joining the Army he was employed as a staker by Messrs Pittard & Hamblen, and was also a prominent local footballer. For several years he was a playing member of the Yeovil “A.’s” XI, and was previously connected with the Barwick and Stoford team. The deceased has three brothers serving in H.M. Forces, viz. Private Sidney Purchase (France), Fred (also serving abroad), and Henry (in training at Gosport). The deepest sympathy is felt thorough the town with the widow who is left with four young children to mourn their loss. Mrs. Purchase has since received a letter from Lieut. J.J. Bennett, of the Hants Regiment, which says: “I am writing to ask you to accept the deep sympathy of the officers and men of C Company on your great loss of your husband on July 23rd.> He was killed very early in the action which led to the capture of a very important village on the Marne. He was a very courageous soldier, devoted to his duty, and beloved by all those who knew him. The Battalion suffered very heavy casualties that day and I am the only officer left on duty in C Company; the others are all killed or wounded. Your husband died a hero’s death, fighting for King and country.”
Interred in Marfaux British Cemetery - Grave I.C.9.
Purchase, W T
Age: Unknown
THE IDENTITY OF W T PURCHASE HAS NOT BEEN ESTABLISHED WITH CERTAINTY
Purchase, Walter John
Age: Unknown
DIED 12 OCTOBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, GRENADIER GUARDS
The Western Gazette 2 November 1917:
Official information has been by Mrs. Purchase, of South Street, that her husband, Private W.J. Purchase, of the Grenadier Guards has been killed in action. Private Purchase went to France in November of last year, and had been in the Army about three years, and had been wounded once before. He was 37 years of age.
Panel 9. Tyne Cot Memorial.
Purchase, Wilfred Stanley Edwin
Age: Unknown
DIED 20 NOVEMBER 1917
CORPORAL 1st/5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Interred in Jerusalem War Cemetery - Grave P.12.
Purser, Albert Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 21 JUNE 1918
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Panel 25 and 26. Pozieres Memorial
Rattle, Edgar
Age: Unknown
DIED 24 0CTOBER 1918
PRIVATE SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 1 November 1918:
The death took place at a Bournemouth Military Hospital on Thursday evening of Private Edgar Rattle, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Rattle, of 52 Camborne Grove, Yeovil, at the early age of 24 years. The deceased, who belonged to the Somersets, was previously attached to a Labour Battalion for some time, and had been working on a farm at Ilchester. He went to Bournemouth on furlough, when he was taken suddenly ill, and died from pneumonia as above stated. The late Private Rattle was well-known and highly respected in Yeovil, and the news of his untimely death was received with feelings of general regret and surprise by his many friends. Before joining the Army, about three years ago, he was in the Borough Accountant’s Office, and previously was employed by Messrs. Fletcher & Bradford, accountants (late Denman & Fletcher). The deepest sympathy is felt with the bereaved parents and other relatives in their sad bereavement.
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave A.3875
Redman, William
Age: Unknown
DIED 18 AUGUST 1916
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 29 September 1916:
Mrs. W. Redman, who for some time resided in Eastland Road, received a report from the War Office on Sept. 4th, stating that her husband, Private Redman of the Somerset L.I., was missing after the engagement on August 18th last. Private Redman, who was, previous to the war, employed by Mr. Barrett, of Middle Street, as a paper hanger, was a National Reservist, and had been in the Army previously. He had seen 15 months active service.
The Western Gazette 6 July 1917:
Mrs. Redman has received notification from the Record Office that no further news of her husband, Priv. W. Redman, of the Somerset Light Infantry who has been missing since August 18th 1916, has come to hand, and the Army Council regretfully conclude that he was killed on the date mentioned.
Panel and Face 2A. Thiepval Memorial
Rendell, Arthur Thomas
Age: Unknown
DIED 2 FEBRUARY 1917
PRIVATE 7th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 9 February 1917:
A wire was received on Wednesday by Mrs A.T. Rendell, of 44 Chant’s Path, stating that her husband, Private Arthur Thomas Rendell, of the Somerset Light Infantry, was lying dangerously ill at Rouen General Hospital. Later another wire was received by Mrs. Rendell, stating that her husband had died on the 2nd instant from bronchitis. Private A.T. Rendell, who was 34 years of age, leaves a widow and three young children. He was called up on June 15th 1916, and left England for France on October 4th 1916.
Interred in St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen. – Grave O.IV.L.6
Rendell, Frederick Harwood
Age: Unknown
DIED 31 MAY 1916
PRIVATE ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY
H.M.S. “INVINCIBLE”
The Western Gazette 9 June 1916:
Townspeople generally will regret to learn that a number of Yeovilians were on the various ships sunk on Wednesday last in the battle off the coast of Jutland amongst them……….Private Fred Rendell, second son on Mr. and Mrs. G. Rendell, 78 Huish, was one of the heroes on the Invincible when she was sunk. He had served in the Navy about two years and was home a month ago. Accompanying the final message of his death, received on Wednesday was a Royal message of sympathy signed by the First Lord of the Admiralty. He was only 23 years of age.
Panel 22 Portsmouth Naval Memorial
Rendell, Giles
Age: Unknown
DIED 7 JUNE 1917
PRIVATE MACHINE GUN CORPS (HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT)
The Western Gazette 22 June 1917:
Information has been received by Mrs. Rendell, of Higher Kingston, that her husband Private Giles Rendell of the Machine Gun Corps was killed in action on the 7th of June. Private Rendell, who was 38 years of age, enlisted under the Derby scheme about 13 months ago. He received his training at Plymouth, and was in the Somerset Light Infantry, but was later transferred to the Machine Gun Corps. Private Rendell had been at the Front since October last, and had seen much heavy fighting. He was a native of West Coker, and was for some years employed at Messrs. Gould’s Twine Factory, but later on coming to Yeovil to live, he worked at Messrs. Brutton’s Brewery. Private Rendell was of a very cheery disposition, and was very popular with his friends in the district. He is the second son of this family to give his life for King and country. Private A.T. Rendell, of the Somerset Light Infantry died from pneumonia in France almost five moths ago. A letter Mrs. Rendell has received from her husband’s chum who was with him in the advance made on the 7th, says that Private Rendell was hit in the side by a shrapnel bullet. He was getting up to help another chum that had been hit just before. There were three of them in the same shell hole together. He did all he could for Giles, bandaged him up, and stayed with him until he died. He did not suffer very much, and was sensible up to the last. The writer also went up again the next day and helped to bring him back so that he could assure his wife that he was buried decently. “Giles was well liked by all the boys of the Machine Gun Section who wish to join with me in their sympathy at your great loss.” Private Rendell leaves a widow and two children for whom much sympathy is felt. Mrs. Rendell has received a letter from Priv. Rendell’s commanding officer, which says “It may be some consolation to you to know that he died in the performance of his duty. He was much liked by all who knew him in the company. He is buried in a cemetery well behind the lines and I hope some day to let you where it is.”
Interred in Bus House Cemetery - Grave A.22.
Ricketts, Albert Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 27 AUGUST 1918
PRIVATE 13th BATTALION, WELSH REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 11 October 1918:
The death is reported in action on August 27th, of Private Albert C. Ricketts, Welsh Regt. His officer writes that he was killed by a machine gun bullet during the recent advance and that his death was instantaneous. He joined the Wilts Regiment in April 1915, when only 17 years of age. Early in 1917 he was drafted to France and has since seen considerable service, being severely wounded in the thigh in September of last year. He was 20 years of age, and at the time of enlistment was living at Melksham, being employed in the Saw Mills there. Previously he had been employed at Messrs Whitby Bros’s factory.
Panel 7 Vis-En-Artois Memorial.
Ricketts, Arthur
Age: Unknown
DIED 20 NOVEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 7th BATTALION, DUKE OF CORNWALL’S LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 30 November 1917:
My sympathy will be felt with Mr. Ricketts of Beaumont House, Sherborne Road in the loss of his youngest son, Private Arthur Ricketts of the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry. Deceased was seriously wounded on the battlefield in France and succumbed to his injuries in hospital. Two more of Mr. Ricketts sons are suffering from wounds or injuries.
Private Frank Ricketts, the fourth son, who is married, and whose home is in St. Michael’s Avenue is in hospital suffering from shrapnel wounds, nerve shock and trench feet.
Private A. (“Bert”) Ricketts is suffering from injuries sustained to his knee in an accident, and is in hospital in England. He is in the R.F.C. (Royal Flying Corps) and is married, his wife residing in Lyde Road.
Interred in Rocquigny-Equancourt Road British Cemetery, Manancourt.
Grave II.B.2.
Ricketts, George
Age: Unknown
DIED 7 AUGUST 1915
STAFF SERGEANT-MAJOR 5th BATTALION, DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 10 September 1915:
Official confirmation has been received of the death of Staff Sergeant-Major George Ricketts, who was killed in action on August 7th whilst serving with the 5th Dorsets at the Gallipoli Penninsular. Deceased was an Army pensioner, with 21 years service to his credit, which period included service in India (Tirah) 1897-98 and Punjab Frontier 1897-98. On the outbreak of hostilities he volunteered and was accepted into the ranks, being employed for some time after re-enlisting as an instructor. He went to the Dardanelles about two months ago, but had only seen a day’s fighting before he went under. He was a native of Yeovil, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ricketts residing in Lyde Road. About six months previous to the War he married the daughter of Mr. Geo. Hoare, of the Railway Tavern, and at the time he sought to re-enlist was himself landlord of the Duke of Edinburgh. Much sympathy is expressed to the bereaved parents and young widow, deceased having been well-known and highly esteemed.
Panel 136 to 139 Helles Memorial, Turkey.
Rodber, William
Age: Unknown
DIED 26 OCTOBER 1918
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 8 November 1918:
Private Wm. Rodber, Somerset L.I., whose home is at Wellington Street, Huish, died at a South African General Hospital, France, on the 26th ult., from gunshot wounds in the head. The late Private Rodber joined the Army in March 1917 and was drafted to France the following June. He was home on leave about two months ago. Previous to joining the Army the deceased was employed by Messrs. J. Thompsett & Co., West Hendford, and was held in high esteem by a wide circle of friends in Yeovil and district. He leaves a widow and two children.
Interred in Abbeville Communal Cemetery Extension
Grave IV.J.13.
Rooks, Clifford Stanley
Age: Unknown
DIED 27 AUGUST 1918
RIFLEMAN ARTISTS’ RIFLES
The Western Gazette 8 November 1918:
Mr. John Rooks of 73 Eastland Road, has been informed that his son, Rifleman C.S. Rooks, Artists’ Rifles (London Brigade), was killed in action in France on August 27th and the intimation was also conveyed to him the sympathy of the King and Queen in his loss. A letter to Mr. Rooks, from the Chaplain of the Battalion informs him that Rifleman Rooks was instantly killed by a shell, and was buried by him with six of his comrades in a large grave close to when he fell near the village of Thilloy, south of Bapaume. A cross had been erected to their memory. He expressed the regret of the officers and men of the Company at the death of a brave soldier who would be missed by all who knew him. Private Rooks was 19 years of age, and previous to joining the Army at the age of 18, was employed in the works of Mr. A.G. Gould, of West Coker, where he had been learning the trade for 31/2 years.
Interred in A.I.F. Burial Ground, Flers. - Grave XI.L.1.
Rose, William
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 JANUARY 1918
GUNNER ROYAL GARRISON ARTILLERY
“M” ANTI – AIRCRAFT BATTERY
The Western Gazette 8 February 1918:
Information has been received that Gunner W. Rose, serving with an ant-aircraft battery has been killed in action. His wife resides at 3 Mount Pleasant, Newtown. He has been serving in France since 1914, being called up as a Reservist. He was formerly employed at the Nautilus Works, by Messrs. Appleby and Childs, and as a Salvation Army insurance agent. Letters from officers speak of Gunner Rose in terms of affection and with admiration of his soldier-like qualities. He took part in the retreat from Mons and most of the big battles of the war, having several narrow escapes. He had served in the R.A.M.C., the R.G.A. and the Mechanical Transport. At the Salvation Army Temple on Sunday afternoon and evening, Adjutant C. Newton alluded to the life and death of the deceased, and expressed the deepest sympathy of all connected with the corps with the bereaved widow, mother and family in the terrible blow they had sustained.
Interred in H.A.C. Cemetery, Ecoust-St. Mein - Grave III.F.15
Ross, William Theophilus
Age: Unknown
DIED 4 OCTOBER 1916
SERGEANT ROYAL GARRISON ARTILLERY
32nd TRENCH MORTAR BATTERY
The Western Gazette 27 October 1916:
Mr. and Mrs. Ross, of Huish, have been officially informed by the War Office that their eldest son Sergt. W.T. Ross, of the R.G.A., was killed in action in France on October 4th. Sergt. Ross, who before being called up was in the Metropolitan Police, and was on the Army Reserve. He underwent training in Scotland and was granted a short leave to visit his parents before proceeding to France in January. Extracts from a letter of deceased’s battery, received by Sergeant Ross’s wife, who resides at Odcombe, says:- “It is with the greatest of reluctance that I am writing this letter, which I might say is the saddest I have ever been called upon to write. I regret very much to inform you that your husband was killed last night by an enemy mienenwerfer, He was at the time relieving me in the line and although I am afraid little can be written which would in any way mitigate the suffering caused by your loss, yet it may be a little consolation to say he proved his worth as an English citizen, and died doing his duty. He was liked and admired by the whole battery, and I myself feel as though I have lost a brother. He was brave and trustworthy, and above all a soldier and a man.” Much sympathy is felt for both his wife and parents, in their sad loss.
Interred in Cambrin Churchyard Extension - Grave S.2.
Rowland, Charles Albert
Age: 37
DIED 27 AUGUST 1918
GUNNER ROYAL FIELD ARTILLERY
“B” BATTERY, 155th BRIGADE
The Western Gazette 11 October 1918:
Mrs C. Rowland of 53 Hendford, whose husband, Gunner C. Rowland was killed in the recent fighting France has received a letter from an Army Chaplain, in which he states that Gunner Rowland was buried near the village of Hamlincourt, near Arras. He assured Mrs. Rowland that she had the pride of knowing that her husband had died a brave man’s death for his King and country and that a cross marks the grave where he lies. The late Gunner Rowland was a well-known member of the Church Army and the Adult School.
Interred in Douchy-Les-Ayette British Cemetery - Grave I.C.3.
Rowsell, Archibald Claud Victor
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 JULY 1916
SAPPER ROYAL ENGINEERS
63rd FIELD COMPANY
The Western Gazette 28 July 1916:
Official notice was received on Friday by Mrs. Rousell of Goldcroft, that her son Sapper Archie Rousell, of the Royal Engineers, had been wounded in the leg by gunshot, and was lying seriously ill in hospital. On Sunday, Mrs. Rousell received further intelligence that one of his legs had been amputated, and blood poisoning having set in he had succumbed to his wounds. Sapper Rousell had joined the Army at the commencement of the war, and had been at the Front 18 months. He had been through the battles of Neuve Chappelle, La Basee, Loos, and the “Great Push.” Sapper Rousell was home on leave a few months ago, and brought home some very interesting relics. Mrs. Rousell’s husband and two other sons are serving their King and country.
Interred in St. Sever Cemetery, Rouen - Grave A.34.14.
Rowsell, Ernest
Age: Unknown
DIED 13 FEBRUARY 1915
FARRIER WEST SOMERSET YEOMANRY
The Western Gazette 19 February 1915:
Much to the regret of all who knew him, the sad tidings that Farrier Ernest Rowsell, attached to the West Somerset Yeomanry, who was serving his King and country at Minehead, was stricken down with illness necessitating his removal to the Military Hospital, came as a very sad surprise. Making no satisfactory progress he obtained leave to return to his home at South Petherton. Here, despite every attention, he developed consumption of the most rapid character and passed away peacefully on Tuesday of last week at the early age of 21 years. The funeral took place on the following Saturday amid every sign of respect. Some of his comrades who had been granted leave, journeyed from Minehead, and, together with other Territorials, walked in procession at the head of the cortege. Next came the parish bier containing the coffin on which were placed many beautiful floral tributes. The following were the chief mourners:- Mr. John Rowsell (father); Messrs. Joseph, Tom, George, Fred, James, Harry and Reginald Rowsell (brothers) and J. Murphy (brother in law). Leaving the deceased’s residence, the mournful cortege wended its way to the Parish Church, where the first part of the Burial Service was conducted. At the termination, the solemn procession proceeded to the cemetery, where the Committal portion of the service was performed. The Vicar (Rev. J. Holding) officiated.
Interred in South Petherton Cemetery - Grave MN.17.
Rowsell, Horace Baden
Age: 19
DIED 2 JULY 1919
PRIVATE WORCESTER REGIMENT
Son of William and Bessie Rowsell of Yeovil
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Catherdral.
Samson, H T
Age: Unknown
THE IDENTITY OF H T SAMSON HAS NOT BEEN ESTABLISHED WITH CERTAINTY
Samways, Charles
Age: 25
DIED 6 NOVEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 12th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave B.306
Died of pneumonia the son of George and Martha Samways.
Samways, George Bernard
Age: 26
DIED 27 APRIL 1918
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, DUKE OF CORNWALL’S LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 3 May 1918:
Private George Bernard Samways, of the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, son of Mr. and Mrs. Samways, of Woodland Grove, was wounded in both feet on Monday, the 29th. A later telegram, however, states that he is progressing favourably. Private Samways, who has been in the Army about two years, was first sent to France, and next to Italy, afterwards returning to France.
The Western Gazette 10 May 1918:
Private G.B. Samways, of the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, who was reported wounded last week, has died from wounds received in action on April 27th.
Interred in Les Baraques Military Cemetery - Grave III.E.11A.
Sansom, Ancil Croydon (samson)
Age: 31
DIED 18 JANUARY 1917
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 26 January 1917
Intimation has been received by Mrs. Sansom, of 8 Crofton Park, Yeovil, that her husband, Private A.C. Sansom, of a Service Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry, has died from illness in France. Private Sansom, who was called up with the National Reserves soon after war was declared, had been in France about 18 moths before his first home leave, and came home for Christmas. He contracted bronchial pneumonia immediately on his return, and was taken to No. 37 Clearing Station where he died after about three or four weeks illness. Private Sansom was at one time employed in the outfitting department of Messrs Redwood’s, Yeovil. Much sympathy is felt with Mrs. Sansom, who is left with one little boy, and also with the late Private Sansom’s parents who reside in Honiton. The late Priv. Sansom was a member of the Holy Trinity choir, and it was four weeks ago on Sunday that he sang in the choir whilst home on leave from France. On Sunday, the Vicar (the Rev S. Horton Roberts) made feeling reference to his death at both morning and evening services, and appropriate hymns were sung. The “Dead March” in Saul was played at the close of the evening service. - Mrs. A.C. Sansom and family wish to tender their sincere thanks to all kind friends for the numerous expressions of sympathy shown them in their sad bereavement.
The original inscription on the memorial is A.C. Sansom and not A.C. Samson as inscribed on the present plaque.
Interred in Avesnes-Le-Comte Communal Cemetery Extension
Grave III.B.19.
Sartin, Augustus Bertie
Age: 20
DIED 3 JUNE 1918
TROOPER 1st LIFE GUARDS
The Western Gazette 7 June 1918:
The death is announced of Trooper “Gus” Sartin, Life Guards, in a bombing raid in France. He was the youngest son of Mr. E. Sartin, of South Street, Yeovil, who has already lost one son in the war and has two others serving. Before joining up, Trooper Sartin was employed in the dressing yard of Messrs. Hawkins, Jesty and Ricketts.
Interred in Etaples Military Cemetery - Grave LXV.E.28.
Sartin, Francis Sidney
Age: 20
DIED 28 APRIL 1917
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 18 May 1917:
Mr. E. Sartin, of the Globe Inn, South Street, received the sad intelligence on Monday morning, that his third son, Private Francis Sidney Sartin, of the Somt. Light Infantry was killed in action in France on April 28th. Private Sartin joined the Army at the beginning of 1916, and was sent to France about four months later. He was wounded in the Somme battle of July 1st 1916, and was sent to England. He recovered and returned to France on November 4th. Much sympathy is extended to the parents in their bereavement. Mr. Sartin has three other sons serving in His Majesty’s Forces - two in France and the third is training in London in the Life Guards.
Bay 4. Arras Memorial
Scriven, Ernest George
Age: 23
DIED 1 NOVEMBER 1914
LEADING CARPENTER’S CREW ROYAL NAVY
H.M.S. “MONMOUTH”
Lost on board HMS Monmouth sunk in the battle off Coronel on 1 November 1914.
Panel 4 Plymouth Naval Memorial
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Scriven of 29 Rosebery Avenue, Yeovil.
Sears, Clive Rewi
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 AUGUST 1916
PRIVATE 13th BATTALION, THE KING’S (LIVERPOOL REGIMENT)
(LIVERPOOL SCOTTISH)
The news was received with the deepest regret in the “Western Gazette” Offices on Monday of the death in action of Priv. Rewi Sears of the Liverpool Scottish, whose mother resides at Swansea. Private Sears had joined the Army just before Easter, and had been in France for about a month. Always of a bright and cheerful disposition, Private Sears was liked by all with whom he came in contact, and the intimation that he had been killed came as a great shock to his fellow employees at these offices. Much sympathy is felt for Mrs. Sears, who has three other sons serving their King and country, one in France and the other two training “somewhere” in England. Priv. Sears, who was only 23 years of age, was for about four months employed in the process engraving department of the “Western Gazette” Offices. A pathetic interest attaches to the above reproduced photograph as it was taken by himself prior to his enlisting.
Pier and Face 1D 8B and 8C Thiepval Memorial
Sharpe, Frederick (frank)
Age: Unknown
DIED 13 OCTOBER 1914
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 10 March 1916:
The intelligence was on Thursday received by Mrs. Hooper, of 74 Eastland Road, that her son Private Frederick Sharpe, of the 1st Dorset Regiment, had been killed in action. Private Sharpe was recalled to the Colours on the outbreak of war, he being at that time a warder at Dorchester Prison. He was posted missing on October 13th 1914, and, in the absence of further information, the War Office communication stated that the authorities were regretfully constrained to conclude he was dead. Deceased, who was 34 years of age, leaves a widow and two children,
Panel 22 and 23. Le Touret Memorial.
Silvester, Frederick G
Age: Unknown
DIED 19 APRIL 1916
PRIVATE 7th BATTALION, GLOUCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 26 May 1916:
News has been received to the effect that Private G. Sylvester of the Somersets has been killed in action. The late private’s parents reside in Middle Street.
A photograph of Private F. G. Silvester is published in the Western Gazette on 9 June 1916 - “Private F. G. Silvester, Yeovil, Killed.”
Panel 17. Basra Memorial
Smalley, Cecil
Age: Unknown
DIED 3 MAY 1917
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, THE BUFFS (EAST KENT REGIMENT)
The Western Gazette 25 May 1917:
News has been received of the death of Private Cecil Smalley, of The Buffs, who was killed on the Western Front on May 3rd. Before he joined the Forces, the deceased resided in Yeovil for about 12 months, and was a junior clerk at the Yeovil branch of the London City & Midland Bank. He was a native of Old Brinsley, Notts.
Bay 2. Arras Memorial.
Smith, Herbert Victor
Age: Unknown
DIED 4 DECEMBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st/5th SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 14 December 1917:
The sad news was received on Tuesday morning from the War Office, that Private Herbert Victor Smith, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Smith of 17 Sparrow Road, had been wounded in Palestine on November 24th, and died on the 4th of December. Private Smith, who was in a Territorial Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry, was 17 years of age when he joined at the outbreak of war, and volunteered from the Reading-room Department of the Western Gazette . Private Smith had been three years in the Army, and of that period, six months had been spent in Palestine, where he met his death. For several years he was a boy chorister at the Parish Church, and was a lad of great promise. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved parents and family.
Interred in Kantara War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt - Grave E.193.
Smith, William Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 27 NOVEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 27th BATTALION, CANADIAN INFANTRY
MANITOBA REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 3 December 1916:
The news was received on Wednesday by Mr. and Mrs. Smith, of Eastland Road, that their eldest son, Private William Charles Smith, of the Canadians, had been killed in action. Private Smith, who was only 23 years of age, had been in France a little over three months. A letter received from the Chaplain of the Regiment states:- “You have doubtless already heard that your son Private W.C. Smith fell during a violent bombardment of our trenches last Monday. He was buried the following night in the pretty little soldiers’ Cemetery where a suitable cross bearing his name will be placed on his grave. Let me express my sympathy with you in your bereavement and enter with you into the joy of knowing that your son was found willing to devote his service and sacrifice to the greatest cause which has engaged Christian men. His life and death will be a memory that will grow more frequent as years unfold the importance of the part he and other brave fellows have played in this great struggle on behalf of Christianity.” Much sympathy is felt with Mr. and Mrs. Smith in their sad loss.
Interred in Bois-De-Noulette British Cemetery, Aix-Noulette.
Grave II.C.8.
Spiller, William Henry
Age: Unknown
DIED 1 JULY 1916
LANCE CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 4 August 1916:
News has been received by Mr. and Mrs. Spiller, of 12 Wellington Street, that their son, Lance Corporal W. Spiller, of the Somerset L. I., has been reported missing since the first day of the Great Advance. No news had been received from him, and during the past week the parents were informed that he had been reported missing. Lance Corporal Spiller, who is 26 years of age, joined the Army soon after the outbreak of the war, and was formerly employed at the Hendford Goods Station. Mr. and Mrs. Spiller have two other sons serving their King and country.
The Western Gazette 22 December 1916:
News has recently been received by Mr. Spiller of Wellington Street, that his son, Lance Corporal W. Spiller, of the Somerset Light Infantry, was killed in action in France on July 1st during the Great Advance. Lance Corporal Spiller, who had previously been reported as missing, joined the Army soon after the outbreak of the war. Of a bright and cheerful disposition, he was much respected by all who knew him, and many will regret to hear of his early death. The deceased soldier, who was 26 years of age, was prior to enlistment employed at the Hendford Goods Station, and was well-known in the town and neighbourhood. Much sympathy is felt for Mr. Spiller in his sad loss.
Pier and Face 2A. Thiepval Memorial.
Stroud, William
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 OCTOBER 1917
PRIVATE 14th BATTALION, GLOUCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 2 November 1917:
Mrs. Stroud, Park Street, received news on Wednesday morning, that her husband, Private Wm. Stroud, Gloucester Regiment, has been killed in action. Priv. Stroud, who was 25 years of age, was before joining the Army, employed by Mr. Snook, of Hendford Hill.
Panel 72 to 75. Tyne Cot Memorial
Sugg, William Henry
Age: Unknown
DIED 21 OCTOBER 1918
RIFLEMAN RIFLE BRIGADE
The Western Gazette 1 November 1918:
Mrs. Sugg, 15 Market Street, on October 15th received a telegram from the Record Office that her husband was lying dangerously ill at 15 Casualty Clearing Station, France from shell gas wound. In a letter the Chaplain, on October 22nd, said Rifleman Sugg was being transferred to another hospital close by on that day, Thursday, October 17th, so every hope was entertained of his recovery, but in a communication from the War Office on October 29th, it stated that Rifleman Wm. Henry Sugg, of the Rifle Brigade, had died on October 21st of shell gas wound at No. 6 Casualty Clearing Station, France, and enclosing a letter of sympathy from the King and Queen. Rifleman Sugg went to France with the 13th Platoon of that Regiment on October 13th last, being home on leave the week before. He was 37 years of age, and leaves a widow and five young children.
Interred in Houchin British Cemetery Grave III.A.27.
Sumsion, Stanley John
Age: Unknown
DIED 11 SEPTEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 8th BATTALION, THE KING’S (LIVERPOOL REGIMENT)
The Western Gazette 27 September 1918:
Private John Sumsion, King’s (Liverpool Irish )Regiment, son of Mrs. Sumsion, of Gordon Road, was killed in action on 11th September. Deceased, who was 29 years of age, joined on October 11th 1916, and went to France September 15th 1917, came home with trench feet in December 1917, and returned to France, June 15th 1918. In a letter to Mrs. Sumsion, his platoon sergeant says:- “ I was present when he was carried in and he is buried in a soldier’s grave (a British cemetery). Private Sumsion before joining up was employed as a glove cutter at Messrs. Whitby’s factory.
Interred in Queant Communal Cemetery British Extension.
Grave A.16.
Sutton, Roland Valentine
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 AUGUST 1917
PRIVATE 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 7 September 1917:
His many friends in the town will regret to learn of the death in action in France on Thursday August 23rd of Private R.V. (Val) Sutton (Somerset L.I.), husband of Mrs. Sutton of 4 Mount Pleasant, Newtown, third son of Mr. R. Sutton of 43 St. Michael’s Road. The information was sent to his wife by Second Lieutenant H. Frampton, the officer commanding, in the following letter which was received on Friday morning:- “ I very much regret having to write to inform you of the very sad death of your husband, Private R.V. Sutton, who was killed in action on August 23rd during a splendid attack. He was killed instantly during the advance and suffered no pain. I am indeed sorry to lose him, as he was an excellent soldier, willing and energetic. Please accept my sympathy, together with that of the officers, N.C. officers and men of the Company.” The late Priv. Sutton joined the Army in January of the present year, up to which time he was a glove cutter at Messrs. Whitby’s. After undergoing training at Boscombe and Sutton Veny, he was drafted to France during March last. He was keenly interested in sport, and was a playing member of the old Harlequins Football Club and had served on the Committee of the Yeovil Town Club. He was also a member of the Loyal “Alexandra” Lodge of Oddfellows. Of a quiet but genial and straightforward disposition, he won a large circle of friends, who have expressed the greatest sympathy with the widow and two young children who are left to mourn his death - In his younger days deceased was connected with the Newtown Primitive Methodist Sunday School and afterwards with the Wesleyan Young Men’s Bible Class, and at both places of worship on Sunday, the pulpit was draped with the Union Jack, and Mr. G. Bird, leader of the Wesleyan Class referred to the sad event. The late Private Sutton was 35 years of age. He has two brothers, Arthur and Fred, discharged from the Army, Arthur having been wounded at Mons, and discharged in consequence, Percy the youngest brother, in India with the local Territorials, whilst the eldest son Harry, is a Lowestoft. At a meeting of the Loyal Alexandra Lodge of Oddfellows on Tuesday evening a vote of sympathy was passed with the widow, and a resolution recording the loss of a respected and valued member was passed in silence.
Interred in Hooge Crater Cemetery - Grave VII.D.10.
Sweet, William Frank
Age: Unknown
DIED 4 OCTOBER 1914
PRIVATE 5th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 9 October 1914:
Private William Frank Sweet, son of Mrs. M. Sweet, of 5 Higher Kingston, died on Sunday at Tidworth Hospital, of double pneumonia contracted from a cold. The deceased, who was nearly 17 years of age, was an apprentice at Messrs. Petters, and about a month ago joined the Territorials. And it was while on Salisbury Plain that he caught the cold. He received every attention. The body was brought to Yeovil by rail on Thursday.
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery - Grave A.204.
Tavender, Archibald Vernon
Age: Unknown
DIED 15 APRIL 1917
ORDINARY SEAMAN ROYAL NAVY
H.M.S. ‘HANNIBAL’
Panel 22 Chatham Naval Memorial
Thompkins, Thomas
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 MAY 1918
PRIVATE 7th BATTALION, QUEEN’S OWN (ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT)
The Western Gazette14 June 1918:
Mrs. M. E. Thompkins, of Alexandra Road, has received official information from the War Office, that her husband, Private T. Thompkins of the Royal West Kents, was killed in action on 22nd May. Before joining up Private Thompkins was employed as a glove cutter at Mr. Tucker’s factory in Reckleford, and had been in the Army a year and eight months, 12 months being spent in France. The deceased leaves a widow and one child.
Interred in Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Exstension
Grave VI.H.3.
Thorne, T
Age: Unknown
THE IDENTITY OF T THORNE HAS NOT BEEN ESTABLISHED WITH CERTIANTY.
Tuck, Alfred Charles
Age: Unknown
DIED 16 AUGUST 1917
GUNNER ROYAL FIELD ARTILLERY
‘D’ BATTERY, 71st BRIGADE
The Western Gazette 31 August 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. John Tuck, of 26 Cromwell Road, Yeovil, have received official information that their eldest son, Gunner A.C. Tuck, of the Royal Field Artillery, has been killed in action in France.
Interred in Brandhoek New Military Cemetery No. 3
Grave II.B.11.
Tucker, Clarence Endicott
Age: 22
DIED 18 FEBRUARY 1918
PRIVATE 1ST/5TH BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
Son of H and E TUCKER
Interred in Yeovil Cemetery
Tucker, Ernest
Age: Unknown
DIED 10 OCTOBER 1916
RIFLEMAN 1st/2nd BATTALION, LONDON REGIMENT (THE RANGERS)
The Western Gazette 20 October 1916:
Private Ernest Tucker, of the London Rangers, son of Mr. and Mrs. R. Tucker, Morton Terrace, Newtown, who was previously reported wounded in action has succumbed to his wounds - Private Percy Tucker, a brother, who is in the Royal Irish Dragoons, was wounded about a month ago. In addition to these two sons, the parents have two sons on active service, and another is about to rejoin the Navy.
Interred in Etaples Military Cemetery - Grave VII.B.4A.
Tucker, S
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 SEPTEMBER 1916
PRIVATE CANADIAN INFANTRY
(WESTERN ONTARIO REGIMENT)
The Western Gazette 6 October 1916:
News has been received by Mrs. Coates, of 6 Wellington Street, Yeovil, that her son, Private S. Tucker, of the Canadian E.F., was killed in action in France on September 9th. When war broke out he was in Canada and enlisted in Canada and crossed to England, going to France nine months ago. He was much esteemed by all who knew him, and many will regret to hear of his early death. The deceased soldier was 26 years of age. Much sympathy has been expressed with Mrs. Coates in her sad loss.
Interred in Sunken Road Cemetery, Contalmaison - Grave I.D.12.
Vaughan, Lionel Francis
Age: Unknown
DIED 17 AUGUST 1916
LANCE CORPORAL SOUTH AFRICAN SHARPSHOOTERS
The Western Gazette 1 September 1916:
Lionel Vaughan, aged 27, the eldest son of Mr. W.F. Vaughan, G.W.R. stationmaster, Yeovil was killed in France on the Somme Front. He has many friends in Bridport and Yeovil, where he is well-known. He served with general Botha through the campaign and eventual conquering of German South West Africa in the Veterinary Corps. When this German Colony was vanquished he proceeded to German East Africa under General Smuts, where he was selected with sixteen others, to go to France as a sniper, he being a particularly fine shot. With others they formed the S.A. Sharpshooters Section, and were attached to the Northamptonshire Regiment, 2nd Brigade. After spending a few days home in Yeovil recently, he was ordered to the Front, where he has remained under the command of Lieut. Methliven, who has written a deeply sympathetic letter to the bereaved parents expressing the regret of his comrades and bearing tribute to his gentlemanly conduct and bravery in the field. It should be mentioned that the deceased gave up a good appointment in Rhodesia to fight for King and country. His younger brother is now serving in the West Somerset Yeomanry. (The bereaved parents wish, through the “Western Gazette” to thank their friends for the many expressions of regret and sympathy which have reached them.)
Interred in Millencourt Communal Cemetery Extension.
Grave A.41.
Vowles, Henry C
Age: Unknown
DIED 4 OCTOBER 1915
PRIVATE 10th BATTALION, CAMERONIANS (SCOTTISH RIFLES)
The Western Gazette 14 April 1916:
Mr. and Mrs. Levi Vowles, 2 Brunswick Street, Yeovil, have received news of the death from wounds received in action of their son, Private H.C. Vowles, of the Scottish Rifles. A Royal message of sympathy signed by Lord Kitchener, accompanies the notification.
Interred in Valenciennes (St. Roch) Communal Cemetery.
Grave IV.B.14.
Wall, Frederick
Age: 40
DIED 7 NOVEMBER 1918
CORPORAL SADDLER ARMY SERVICE CORPS
4th COMPANY, 8th DIVISIONAL TRAIN
The Western Gazette 29 November 1918:
Mrs. F. Wall, of 108 Park Street, Yeovil, received the sad news on 11th. November, that her husband Corporal Frederick Wall, of the A.S.C., was taken to hospital suffering from bronchial pneumonia on the 5th, and died on the 7th at the 7th Canadian General Hospital, France, and was buried with full military honours in a cemetery at Etaples. Corpl. Wall, who joined up at the outbreak of war had been in France four years, and in a letter to Mrs. Wall his captain says, “I should like to tell you what a great loss it has been to us all, as your husband was one of the most popular men in the Company. Since I have had the honour to command this Company, I always found him a good, willing and cheerful worker. On many trying occasions that we have all been through together, he has always been to the fore with cheerfulness and good work, and in addition always set a splendid example to all of us in showing absolute fearlessness in the face of danger, and by doing so has rendered very valuable service in helping the Company out of many tight corners.” Mrs. Wall has also received two letters from the matron and nurse at the hospital, and a message of sympathy from the King and Queen. The deceased leaves a widow and two children, for whom much sympathy is felt. Mrs. Wall wishes to thank the very kind friends who have expressed sympathy with her in her sad bereavement.
Interred in Etaples Military Cemetery - Grave XLIX.E.8.
Warren, William James
Age: Unknown
DIED 10 MARCH 1917
RIFLEMAN 15th BATTALION, LONDON REGIMENT
(PRINCE OF WALES’ OWN CIVIL SERVICE RIFLES)
The Western Gazette 16 March 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. Warren, of 32 King Street has been informed that their son, Private W.J. Warren, London Regiment, died on Saturday at a base hospital from wounds received in action on February 5th. This news will be received with utmost regret by Private Warren’s many friends in the town, particularly in the Yeovil Volunteers, in which at the time of joining up, he had attained the rank of Section Commander. He was a popular and valued member of the Western Gazette Reporting Staff, and although only in his 21st year, by his conscientious and painstaking work was regarded as having a promising career ahead of him. He volunteered for service when he became of military age and joined a well-known unit of the London Regiment, which had seen much service in France. He had been in France about six months and had some very narrow escapes in the Somme battles. The utmost sympathy has been extended to Priv. Warren’s parents at the loss they have sustained. At the Wednesday night parade of the Yeovil Volunteers, the detachment stood at “the present” whilst the “Last Post” was sounded as a mark of respect to the memory of the deceased.
Interred in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery - Grave VIII.A.188.
Way, Evered Bruce
Age: Unknown
DIED 11 AUGUST 1918
LANCE CORPORAL 1st BATTALION, DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 6 September 1918:
Lance Corporal E.B. Way, of the Dorset Regt., whose wife lives a118 Gold Croft, has been killed in action in France. He was 30 years of age and joined up on July 20th 1916, and was drafted to France in November of the same year. For 13 years he was engaged in the piano and music warehouse of Messrs. Godfrey & Co., The Triangle, and was very well known. Mrs. Way received a notification from the Record Office that her husband was wounded but later received a letter from a chaplain to a Canadian unit, to the effect that Lance Corporal Way had been killed in the recent advance and that his body had been buried in a wheat field behind the present front line. The chaplain added that he had apparently been killed by a machine gun bullet whilst gallantly advancing on the battlefield, and that death had evidently been instantaneous.
Interred in Bouchoir New British Cemetery - Grave III.E.110.
Weale, Ralph Leonard
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 AUGUST 1918
PRIVATE 3rd BATTALION, WORCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 30 August 1918:
News has been received by Mr. G. Weale, Mudford Road, that his grandson, Priv. R. Weale, Worcester Regiment, has been killed in action in France on August 8th. The O.C. of his platoon, has written to say that he was shot through the head by a sniper, and death was instantaneous. He was one of the best Lewis gunners in the platoon and a good shot. The deceased soldier was formerly employed at Lipton’s Stores, and was a Sea Scout before joining up about twelve months ago. He had been in France four months when he met his death.
Interred in Hinges Military Cemetery - Grave C.7.
Welch, John Milton
Age: Unknown
DIED 13 SEPTEMBER 1916
CORPORAL 6th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 22 September 1916:
The relatives of Corporal J.M. Welch have received the sad information that he has succumbed to wounds received in action. Corporal Welch, who was in Netley Hospital was previously reported seriously wounded, being shot in the head, and suffering from a fractured skull. Although ineligable for military service (being over fifty years of age) Corporal Welch had been in France for 15 months and was one of the first when war was declared to enlist in the National Reserve Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry which Regiment has taken part in some of the severest fighting. Corpl. Welch was one of the clerical staff of the Conservative Association. His death will be keenly felt by townspeople as he was so well known in the town. The body was moved to Milton Clevedon, near Evercreech, to await burial which took place on Saturday. A short choral service was held in the church prior to the interment. The inscription on the coffin read “Corporal J.M. Welch, 6th Somerset L.I., died of wounds received in action, September 13th 1916, aged 50.”
Interred in Milton Clevedon (St. James) Churchyard, near Evercreech.
Whatley, H F Whalley ? Hf
Age: Unknown
The name H.F. Whalley was originally inscribed on the War Memorial and repeated when the panels were placed on the Memorial when the original inscriptions became worn. However, enquiries have not been able establish a serviceman dying by name of H.F. Whalley and with a connection with Yeovil.
However, a Private Henry Frank Whatley, of the 6th Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment who died from wounds received in action in France on 26 April 1918, was the son of Henry and Rose Whatley of 1 Highfield Road, Yeovil and the husband of Amy Louise Whatley resident in Maiden Bradley, Wilts. It is possible that the original inscription of Whalley was a misspelling the name Whatley.
Whitby, Edgar
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 JUL 1916
PRIVATE 10th BATTALION, GLOUCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 11 May 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. G.H. Whitby, of Trinity House, Yeovil, have received official notification from the War Office, that their youngest son, Private Edgar Whitby, of the Gloucester Regt., has been killed. During the fighting in France on July 23rd 1916, he was reported to be missing, but after every enquiry had been made, the War Office regretted to report that he had been killed. Private Whitby was sent to the Front shortly after joining his regiment. Much sympathy is expressed for the parents.
Pier and Face 5A and 5B Thiepval Memorial
White, Albert Sidney
Age: Unknown
DIED 5 AUGUST 1918
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 12 July 1918:
Mr. and Mrs. White, of 75 Park Street, have heard the sad news that their son, Private A.S. White, of the Royal Warwicks has been seriously wounded. Before enlisting he worked for Mr. F. Bird, of Woodland Grove Dairy. Mr. and Mrs. White’s eldest son is still in hospital in France suffering from gas and trench fever.
The Western Gazette 16 August 1918:
Mr. and Mrs. White of 75 Park Street, have received the sad intelligence that their son, Private A.S. White, of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment, has succumbed to wounds in a General Hospital in France.
Interred in Terlincthun British Cemetery, Wimille.
Grave II.A.29.
White, Henry
Age: Unknown
DIED 17 AUGUST 1917
SERGEANT 2nd BATTALION, ROYAL IRISH REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 24 August 1917:
Sergt. Harry White (Royal Irish Regiment) brother of Mrs. Whensley, of 18 South Street, who was formerly an employee of Mr. H.F. West, draper &c., of Middle Street, has been killed in action. Writing to Mrs. Whensley an officer states:- “He was my platoon sergeant, and I conceived a liking and esteem for him such as I had for few men. Throughout the operations he was very cheerful and rendered me invaluable service at all times. The men would have followed him anywhere and he was universally liked by the officers, not only of his Company, but of the battalion. After coming through an action that was almost unparalleled for its intensity he was killed by a shell whilst in a support trench waiting to be relieved. His death was sudden and painless. You have my deepest sympathy and no one can ever replace him.
Only a short time previously the late Sergeant White was the recipient of a parchment from the Major-General commanding the - Irish Division which contained the following:- “I have read with much pleasure the reports of your regimental commander and Brigade commander regarding your gallant conduct and devotion to duty in the field on June 7th 1917, and have ordered your name to be entered in the record of the Irish Division.”
Interred in Aeroplane Cemetery - Grave I.A.1.
White, Henry John
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 OCTOBER 1917
PRIVATE 1st BATTALION, COLDSTREAM GUARDS
The Western Gazette 2 November 1917:
Mrs. H.J. White, who resides with her parents at 61 Beer Street, Yeovil, received official intelligence on Tuesday morning that her husband, Private H.J. White, of the Coldstream Guards, had been killed in action in France on the 9th ult. Private White, who enlisted in Sept. 1916, and proceeded to France in March of this year, was previously employed by Messrs. Barrett & Son, of Middle Street. He was a regular member of the Congregational Church, for many years a Sunday School teacher and was also a member of the Second Yeovil B.B. Profound sympathy has been expressed with the widow, mother and all other relatives in their terrible bereavement. Mrs. White had been previously informed of the sad death of her husband by a lieutenant in a letter to her, but the official notification was not received till the 23rd ult.
Panel 9 to 10. Tyne Cot Memorial
White, Robert George
Age: Unknown
DIED 17 SEPTEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 1st/2nd LONDON REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 17 November 1917:
News has been received from the War Office that Private Robert George White, whose parents reside at 96 Eastland Road, Newtown, was killed in action on September 17th. Private White, who was only 18 years and eight months old, joined the Somerset Light Infantry in January of this year, and was transferred to the London Regiment when he was sent in the draft to France. He is the eldest son of Mr. James White, Eastland Road, with whom much sympathy is felt.
Pier and Face 9.D.9.C.13.C. and 12.C. Thiepval Memorial
Whittington, William Walter
Age: Unknown
DIED 31 JULY 1918
PRIVATE 2nd/4th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 9 August 1918:
Mr. S. Whittington, 63 Alexandra Road, yesterday (Thursday) received an official telegram announcing that his son, Private W. Whittington, of the Somerset Light Infantry, had died in hospital in France from gunshot wound in the abdomen. Deceased, who was 22 years of age, was previous to joining the Army employed in the general printing department of the “Western Gazette.” He was a member of the local Volunteer Force, and when war broke out was mobilised, and proceeded with his Regiment to India. Afterwards he saw service in Palestine, and from there was sent to France in June last. Deceased is the fourth member of the general printing department staff to make the supreme sacrifice in the sacred cause of freedom.
Interred in Raperie British Cemetery, Villemontoire.
Grave IVA.D.7.
Willis, Henry George
Age: Unknown
DIED 22 DECEMBER 1915
SECOND LIEUTENANT 2nd BATTALION, DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY
Interred in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery - Grave II.A.12.
Brother-in-law of Ellen F. Willis, 42 Park Street, Yeovil.
Inscribed in the County of Somerset Book of Remembrance in St Martin’s Chapel, Wells Cathedral.
Willis, William John
Age: Unknown
DIED 14 NOVEMBER 1918
SERGEANT DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 20 December 1918:
The death of Sergeant W.J. Willis occurred in hospital at Oxford, on November 14th after a few days illness from pneumonia. His wife who lives at 42 Park Street, Yeovil, was able to be with him before he died. Sergt. Willis, who joined up at the outbreak of war saw service in the Dardenelles in 1915, where he was wounded in the head. Recovering, he went to France, where he was again severely wounded in the left arm from which he never fully recovered. Still eager to serve, he transferred to the Army Ordnance Department at Didcot, where he was up to the time of his death. His officer there spoke in very glowing terms of him. He was promoted to sergeant on November 11th, only a few days before his death. Mrs. Wills has also received a kind letter of sympathy from the friends in his Company and one from the King and Queen. He leaves a widow and two children with whom much sympathy is felt.
Interred in Oxford (Botley) Cemetery – Grave I1.184.
Winsor, Percy Lionel
Age: Unknown
DIED 19 APRIL 1917
PRIVATE 1st/5th BATTALION, HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT
The Western Gazette 18 May 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. J. Winsor, of Brunswick Street, have been informed that their youngest son, Percy, is missing after an engagement in the East on April 14th. He joined up fifteen months ago, and for 12 months had been in Egypt. He was 22 years of age and has three brothers in the Army
The Western Gazette 13 July 1917:
Mr. and Mrs. Winsor, of Brunswick Street, have received official information that their son, Priv. Percy Winsor, is believed to have been killed. As reported in the “Western Gazette” a few weeks since, he was previously reported as missing. Priv. Winsor enlisted in January 1916, and after the usual training embarked for Egypt. Much sympathy is felt for the deceased’s relatives and friends.
Panels 28 and 29. Jerusalem Memorial
Winsor, Stanley James
Age: Unknown
DIED 2 SEPTEMBER 1918
PRIVATE 12th BATTALION, SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 4 October 1918:
Mr. and Mrs. J. Winsor, of Homeleigh, Brunswick Street, have again been bereaved by the loss of a son who has fallen in the war. They received notice this week that their sixth son, Private Stanley J. Winsor, of the Somerset L.I. was killed in action on September 2nd. Twenty seven years of age, Private Winsor had been in the Army about two and a half years. Before joining up he was employed by Mr. H. Hatt (the Mayor of Bath), having previously served an apprenticeship with Mr. Membury, of Middle Street.
Panel 4. Vis-En-Artois Memorial
Yerbury, John Hedley Wright
Age: Unknown
DIED 23 MARCH 1918
PRIVATE 4th QUEEN’S OWN HUSSARS
The Yeovil Leader 22 April 1918
Private F. Yerbury, son of Mr. A. Yerbury, of Frome, who joined up three years ago from Parr’s Bank, Yeovil, has died of wounds in France on March 23rd.
Panel 3. Pozieres Memorial.
Young, Frank
Age: Unknown
DIED 17 NOVEMBER 1916
PRIVATE 2nd BATTALION, DUKE OF CORNWALL’S LIGHT INFANTRY
The Western Gazette 16 February 1917:
Miss E. Neal, of 5 North Terrace, Newtown, has now received official notification of the death in action on 17th November 1916, in Macedonia, of Private F Young, of the Duke of Cornwall’s L.I., who prior to enlistment resided with her. Private Young, who joined the Army at the outbreak of hostilities, had seen much hard fighting and had previously been in hospital suffering from enteric fever. The deceased soldier was 20 years of age
Doiran Memorial, Greece.
Young, Richard Webber
Age: Unknown
DIED 9 APRIL 1917
PRIVATE 25th (TYNESIDE IRISH) BATTALION, NORTHUMBERLAND FUSILIERS
The Western Gazette 11 May 1917:
Mrs. Young, of Huish, Yeovil, has received intimation from the Infantry Record Office, York, that her son, Private R.W. Young, of the - Northumberland Fusiliers, was killed in action in France on April 9th. The deceased soldier, who enlisted soon after the outbreak of hostilities, had been in France for two years, and had seen considerable fighting, taking part in several big battles, including the Battle of the Somme, during which he received a wound in the arm. He was, prior to enlisting, employed by Messrs. Raymond Bros., cabinet makers, of Manor Road, where he had spent several years, and where he had been apprenticed. The deceased soldier was well known and highly respect in the town and district, and his many friends will regret to hear of his death. Much sympathy is felt for the parents (who have another son serving in the Navy, and another who has been discharged from the Army) in their sad loss.
Sp. Mem.B.1. Rolincourt Valley Cemetery.