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Men from North Northumberland Killed, Wounded and taken Prisoner in the Great War

1914-15 1916 1917 1918-19
 

Portrait Name Rank Unit Town Type Details and date published
  ADAMSON, Robert Pte. 7th North'd Fus Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. Robt. Adamson, Amble.... 01/05/15
Adamson Alnwick ADAMSON, John James Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd Drummer John James Adamson, 
7th N.F. age 28, Brass Finisher, employed by Messrs. Hardy's Bros, is the son of Sergeant Drummer James Adamson, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, Alnwick. He joined the above regiment about 7 years ago, and left for foreign service on April 20. On Friday last a letter was received, stating that he was wounded in the head but not seriously. He was removed to the base hospital. Sergeant Drummer Adamson (his father) has three sons besides himself serving in the colours, also two brothers and four nephews in the Northumberland Fusiliers. Drummer John James above wounded attended the National School Alnwick, and was secretary for the football club, and member of the town band.  08/05/1915
Gordon Ainslie AINSLEY, Gordon Pte. 7th North'd Fus Rothbury wnd Private Gordon Ainsley,
 of Rothbury, age 19, one of the Rothbury Company, is wounded. He is the son of Mrs. R. Ainslie, 5, Armstrong Memorial Cottages, Rothbury, and was employed as a gardener to Lord Armstrong at Craigside. He joined the Territorials in March 1913. 15/05/1915
George Air Chevington Drift AIR, George Pte.   Chevington Drift    
Allan ALLAN, R. Pte. 7th North'd Fus North Sunderland/
Seahouses
wnd North Sunderland and Seahouses.
News was received in Seahouses on Wednesday night that Private R. Allan, of the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, was wounded through the body and was in hospital in France. 08/05/1915
Allcorn Andrew  ALLCORN, Andrew Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Andrew Allcorn,
eldest son of Thomas Allcorn, signalman, Alnwick Railway Station, is lying in the Red Cross Hospital, Hayes, Kent. He enlisted into the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers in September. There was nothing on the card to show what he was suffering. Previous to enlisting he was employed as a railway porter.  01/05/15

Private Andrew Allcorn Wounded.

 Writing to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. T. Allcorn, Sea View Cottages, Alnwick,  Private Andrew Allcorn, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, says-

"I am keeping quite well, in fact all the boys are in the best of spirits. We have had it a bit rough, but you cannot expect anything else here. It will be nothing but hard work for a good while yet. We are in Belgium now, and doing very well with the language. I think we will pick it up easy. The Soldiers help us all they can. I am not allowed to name the place where we are. I wish I could. You would be surprised. We have not put off much time since we left Cambois. We have travelled a long way in a short time with very little sleep. I am a sound sleeper. Last night the noise was awful from the guns, but it did not annoy me. It is cold a bit at night, but after you fall asleep it's all right. I will certainly tell you a story when we come home. Don’t forget to send me some cigarettes, as the ones out here are not nice, matches are also scarce. It is just like a continuous thunderstorm here. We got a good send-off from Cambois, nearly all the people were crying."

Writing later from the Warren Hospital, Hayes, Kent, Private Allcorn in a letter received by his parents at Alnwick on Saturday morning says- "My wound is not very bad, It is just a bullet wound in my left heel. I expect to be home shortly for a time. Well I have not been away very long, but I've seen a great deal, things I will never forget. No one but those who have been in the line can have any idea of what things are like. They talk of hell let loose. I think hell would be a pleasure to the battle I went through. The fellows who have been out from the start say this was the worst they ever seen. I have not told you the name of the battle yet. Well, it was St. Julian where I fell. I have lost everything except the clothes I stand in. Don’t worry, as I am all right, they are very kind here, don’t send anything, but don’t forget the “Gazette”. With best love, will tell you all when I come home."  08/05/1915

Allison J  ALLISON, J.  Sgt. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd

Sergeant James Allison.

 7th N.F. who is a mason, was employed by the N.E.R. Company at Alnwick. He  is a younger son of Mr James Allison, Centre Terrace Alnwick. He joined the above regiment in September, and left for foreign service on April 20th. Sergeant James Allison was very popular in Alnwick among the Homing Pigeon Societies, and had some good birds himself. He was married to Miss Farr, Duke Street, and had a little daughter. 08/05/1915

George Amos AMOS, George Pte.   Broomhill wnd  
J. Amos Hartlaw AMOS, John Pte. 7th North'd Fus Hartlaw &
Shilbottle
wnd Private John Amos,
 7th N.F., only son of Mr. Andrew Amos, Ashington, formerly of Chatton and Hartlaw, Alnwick, has been wounded. Official information received by his father states that he was wounded in an engagement on May 27th, receiving gunshot wounds in both knees and left hand.
Private Amos prior to enlisting at Alnwick in September, was second horseman under Mr. Hogg, Causey Park. He is well known in Shilbottle and district. 26/06/1915
Vincent Amos AMOS, Vincent Pte.   Broomhill wnd  
Anderson J.P. ANDERSON, J.P. Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd

Private J.P. Anderson,

7th N.F., second son of Mr. Thos. Anderson, town’s waterman, Alnwick. Enlisted into the 7th Batt. About three years ago, and went out to the front with them on April 20th. He is wounded and is at present in Manchester hospital. 08/05/1915

William Anderson ANDERSON, William Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick msg Private William Anderson,
7th Northumberland Fusiliers is officially reported missing. He is the eldest son of Mr Thomas Anderson, waterman, Alnwick, and enlisted into the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (1st Line), when the 1st Volunteer Battalion became merged into a territorial unit. He being a member of the 1st V.B.N.F., for two years previous to the change. The official message states: "a report has been received this day (June 4th) that Private William Anderson, 1st/7th Northumberland Fusiliers, was missing after the engagement abroad on 29th April." His brother, Private James P. Anderson returned to Alnwick, on Friday night last, wounded, from the Front. He was struck by a bullet in the left hand. He is reported to be going on well. He is also a member of the 1st/7th Northumberland Fusiliers and received his wound on April 27, near St Julien or Hill 60. 12/06/1915
Angus William  ANGUS, William  Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd

 

Private William Angus,

second son of Mr. and Mrs. T. Angus, Union Court, Alnwick, enlisted into the 7th Batt. Northumberland Fusiliers at the beginning of the war. He was wounded and is a present in Dellaney’s Hospital, Crumpsall, Manchester.  08/05/1915

  ARCHER, ? Capt. 7th
North'd Fus
? wnd Wounded,
 News has been received that Captain Archer, Adjutant of the 7th N.F., has been wounded in action (Second-Lieut R.Lord, 3rd Batt, attached to 2nd Batt N.F.)
BALMER, James Pte. 9th
North'd Fus
Bebside
&
Wooler
kia Private James Balmer of the 9th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, husband of Mrs Balmer of Bebside and 3rd son of Mr and Mrs Balmer, late of Wooler, was killed in action France on November 21st. The deceased was 23 years of age. There are three other brothers of the deceased in the army and he was the brother of Mr Robert Balmer of Cavil Head. 4/12/1915

Former Wooler Family's Three Sons.
In September, 1914, the three brothers Balmer answered their country's call. Private James Balmer, who was employed by the Bebside Coal Co Ltd (whose photo we have already given in these columns) wrote letters which were received by his relatives on November 25th, intimating that the gallant fellow was coming home. "Welcome" preparations were made for his homecoming, and, sad to relate, the guest had passed to the hero's roll before the warm hopes of the family were fulfilled. Deceased was married only a few days before he left for France with his regiment. 18/12/1915
  BAXTER, R. Sgt 7th
North'd Fus
Bilton
Banks
wnd Shilbottle Soldier in Hospital.
News has been received by Mr George Smith, King Street, Alnwick, a relative, that Sergeant R. Baxter, 1st/7th Northumberland Fusiliers, who went out to the front with the Battalion on April 20th, is now in in Endell Street Military Hospital, London, suffering from a fracture of the ankle. Sergeant R. Baxter, a son of Mr Robert Baxter, Bilton Banks, has other four brothers serving with the colours. 20/11/1915
  BELL, Phillip Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Phillip. Bell, ....... 01/05/1915
  BELL, Robert Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Robt. Bell, ....... 01/05/1915
  BELL, Thomas Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Thomas Bell, ....... 01/05/1915
Sergeant W. Bell Rothbury Northumberland Fusiliers BELL, W. Sgt. 7th North'd Fus Rothbury wnd Sergeant Wm. Bell,
of the 7th N.F., age 25, is a grocer employed by his father, Thos. Bell, of Rothbury. He joined the above battalion when formed, and left for foreign service on April 22nd. An official postcard has been received from him stating that he was wounded, in hospital, being conveyed to base and doing well. In a letter received on Wednesday it was further stated that he was wounded in the right leg and was in Rouen hospital, Sergeant Bell was a pupil at Sharp’s School, Rothbury. 08/05/1915
Sergeant A. Best Rothbury BEST, R.J.

[+ others]
Sgt. 7th North'd Fus Rothbury wnd

Local Soldiers Wounded,

- many of the men in the Rothbury Company of the 7th N.F. have been in the battle line in France, and have been wounded. General sympathy is felt by the residents for the parents and friends of those sons and relatives that are wounded. Amongst those reported are the Hon. Wm. Watson Armstrong (Lieutenant), Cragside, who has been wounded in the chest, second- Lieutenant T. Ord Donkin, son of Mr. R. Donkin, auctioneer, wounded in the foot and now in Guy’s Hospital, London, Sergt. Best (postman), second-lieutenant Fenwicke Clennell, Harbottle Castle, second son of Mr. T.C.Fenwicke Clennell, Corpl, Wm Bell, son of Mr T, Bell (grocer), Privates J. Soulsby, wounded badly in the face, Leslie Hounam, G. Ainslie, wounded in the back, Joseph Mowitt, son of Mr. Wm Mowitt, draper, Fred Hood, Potts (Lee)  Foreman (Alwinton), C. Wood (Thropton) Lieut. Redpath, stepson of Supt, Taylor, who once resided in Rothbury, we regret to say has been killed. Nurse Webber, of the Cottage Hospital, Rothbury, has volunteered for Red Cross work in France. She has how left here with that object in view.  01/05/1915

 

Sergeant R.J. Best,

 7th N.F. age 39, postman at Rothbury Post Office, husband of Mrs A. Best, 2 Addycombe Cottages, Rothbury, has written to his wife saying he is in hospital in Folkestone. He joined in May 1913, and left for foreign service on April 20th. He was wounded by a shot from a sniper, the bullet going through his waist belt. He went through the Boer War, being a corporal in the Royal Scots. 08/05/1915

  BEVERLEY, Charles Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick kia Reported Killed in Action
Mr J.W. Young, Alnwick, has received a letter from Private Henry Hall, 7th N.F., informing him that Private Charles Beverley has been killed in action. Private Beverley was employed at Messrs. Hardy Brothers fishing rod and tackle manufactory, Alnwick, prior to the declaration of war, when he joined the 7th N.F. going out to the front on April 20th. Letter received by another person in Alnwick, also refers to the death of Private Beverley, and states that his comrades erected a small cross on his grave. 26/06/1915
Joseph Black Broomhill BLACK, Joseph   RND Broomhill wnd  
John Blackhall BLACKHALL, George Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Belford wnd Belford Men Wounded.
News has been received at Belford that Private George Blackhall has been wounded in the head, and Private John Hadden in the Shoulder. Both men were in the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, and only left for the front about a week ago. 01/05/1915
T. Blagburn Alnwick BLAGBURN, T. L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick  

Lance Corporal T. Blagburn,

 youngest son of Mrs Blagburn, Chapel Lane, and the late Mr T. Blagburn, Alnwick, has been wounded in action. Writing to his mother from in hospital in Versailles, under date of May 27th, he says that he has received a bullet wound in the left knee. Lance Corporal Blagburn, who is only 20 years of age, served as apprenticeship with Messrs. Michie and Co., Nurseryman, Alnwick, and shortly after war was declared he enlisted into the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers. He was drafted out to France with his battalion and has gone through 2 or 3 battles out there. Out on the battlefield he met with his elder brother, Trooper William Blagburn who was serving in the Northumberland Hussars. A remarkable coincidence was that they met on their birthday 13 May, both brothers having been born on that date, but with 4 years intervening, and they had not seen each other since Christmas Day 1913. Trooper W. Blagburn went out to the front with his regiment in September.

Lance Corporal Blagburn’s brother-in-law Private Hugh Miles, who went out in the same draft, has not been heard of since the 1st battle, nor has he been reported amongst the missing. The young man, who was a native of Gateshead, was sometime employed by Mr Archibald, boot and shoemaker, Alnwick, and when war was declared he enlisted into the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers. He married Victoria, younger daughter of Mrs T. Blagburn Chapel Lane.  05/06/1915

  BLYTHE, Charles Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Charles Blythe,
son of Mr. John Blythe, railway guard, wrote from the field post office on the 26th April, that he was in hospital and wounded. The letter was posted on the 27th and reached Alnwick on the 29th April. He was serving in the Territorials when called up, and had been a member of D Company for some years. He was was then employed as a railway porter at Jesmond Station. 01/05/15

Mr. John Blythe,
 railway guard, Alnwick, has received a letter from his son, Private Charles Blythe, 7th N.F., who says:- My wound is going on fine and I hope to be discharged soon. We have had a rough time of it from when we left England. When I wrote to you before, we were lying about four miles from the firing line, and the next day we were in action on Sunday, so that was only three days from when we left home we got at the Germans. Just now the fighting is very hot about where our lads are and the best of it is the Germans won't fight fair. If they would, we would give them a putting up, I can tell you. 08/05/1915
  BOWEY, J. Pte. 7th North'd Fus Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. J. Bowey, Amble.... 01/05/15
BOWEY, Thomas Pte 9th
Btn C.E.F
West
Thirston
&
Canada
died Felton. Funeral of Private Thomas Bowey.
It is with deep regret we have to record another death from our parish, due to the war. In the month of May 1911, Private Thomas Bowey left his home at West Thirston to seek employment in Canada. 2 years ago, just about this time he paid a visit to his native village, and all is friends were pleased to see him looking so well. When the war broke out he enlisted in C Company of the Canadian 9th Battalion, and returned to England on September 20th last. He had suffered from pleurisy sometime before sailing, but to outward appearance he was quite recovered. Three weeks ago he was attacked by typhoid, which might have been overcome; but, unfortunately, pneumonia intervened, and his death took place in the Military Hospital, Shorncliffe, on the 20th, just a couple of hours before his sister arrived there. He was 31 years of age. His remains were sent home, being accorded full military honours on their passage to the railway station. The body arrived at Felton on Wednesday in charge of Sergeant Andrews and Privates Lewis and Dobson, who had been sent from camp as representatives of the Battalion. The funeral took place on Thursday afternoon in the Churchyard. A firing party of 12, with bugler and 6 underbearers, were in attendance from Alnwick. The coffin was covered with the Union Jack, and bore deceased cap and belt. A very large number of mourners accompanied, the villagers showing every mark of respect. Arriving at the Church "The Dead March" was played on the organ. The 39th Psalm was chanted by the Choir. After the lesson had been read by the vicar, hymn 184, "Rock of Ages Cleft for Me" was sung. The "Nunc Dimittis" was chanted as the procession left the Church. The service at the graveside concluded, three volleys were fired by soldiers, and the bugler sounded the Last Post. 4/12/1915
  BRADFORD, Thos. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Private Thos. Bradford,

 of the 7th N.F., hedger, employed by the Duke of Northumberland, is seriously wounded. Mr T. Bradford, Duke Street, Alnwick, the father, received a telegram to that effect on Wednesday morning. 08/05/1915

Brewis Thomas BREWIS, Thomas Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Thomas Brewis,
second son of Mr. Robert Brewis, mason, employed at Alnwick Castle, wrote to his parents in Ogle Terrace " I have been admitted into hospital being wounded, but am going on well and hope to be discharged soon. I am going to be sent down to the base." Private Brewis has been a member of the Territorials at Alnwick for about 8½ years and was called up at the beginning of the war. He was employed as a plumber at Alnwick Castle. 01/05/15
Charles Brown Radcliffe BROWN, Chas. Pte. 7th
North'd Fus.
Radcliffe wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte Chas. Brown, Radcliffe.... 01/05/15
James Brown Broomhill BROWN, Jas Pte. 7th
North'd Fus?
Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Jas. Brown, ....... 01/05/1915

Private James Brown, [same man?]
of South Broomhill, is a son of Mr John Brown, of Middle Row South Broomhill. He is in the 1st/7th N.F., and has been severely wounded at front. 19/06/1915
T.J.H. Brown  BROWN, T.J.H.      Amble  wnd Wounded. 15/05/1915
BROWN, William Pte. 19th
Yorks R.
North
Charlton
kia A North Charlton Hero.
We regret to report that Private William Brown, of North Charlton, was killed in action at Loos on 27 September. He was in the 19th Yorkshire Regiment 27/11/1915
  BROWNE, Charles Nicholas Foster 2/Lieut 1st
R. Dragoons
Alnmouth/
Brunton Hall
kia Second Lieutenant C.N.F. Browne.
 We regret to announce that Second Lieutenant Charles Nicholas Foster Brown, 1st Royal Dragoons, eldest son of Captain Browne, late 15th Hussars, Brunton, Northumberland, was killed in action near Ypres, on May 13th. Lieutenant Brown was a fine looking young man of only 20 years of age. His parents are present residing at Alnmouth and have done so since the fire at Brunton Hall. 22/05/1915
John Bruce BRUCE, John   RND Wooler wnd  
Maurice Burn BURN, Maurice L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd
Lance-Corpl. Maurice Burn,
 of Alnwick, son of Mr. G.W. Burn, Queen's Head Hotel, has been wounded in head by shrapnel and foot by a sniper's bullet at St. Julien, and is now in Springburn Hospital, Glasgow. He is a member of the 7th Batt. N.F, having joined a few years ago. 15/05/1915 [also see Wilfred Carson below]
William Calvert CALVERT, William Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd

Private William Calvert in Hospital in France.

Mr. and Mrs. John Calvert, Upper Howick Street Alnwick, have received a letter from their second son, Private William Calvert, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, who went out to the fighting line with his Battalion on April 20th. He states-

"I was wounded in the thigh by a bullet on April 26th, but I am glad to say that I don’t think it is much, thought I can hardly walk with the pains in my legs through lying out in the rain with my wet clothes on and drying on me. A lot of our lads have been wounded by shell fire. I am quite happy here. The sisters are very nice and kind. When the air raids were on in England, the people got a fright, but they should be out here and see towns in ruins, and churches on fire and men and horses lying dead all around, and shells flying about. Yesterday a shell struck the hospital, killing two sisters and wounding a lot of others. If the enemy would only fight fair the war would soon be done. We have been fighting in the worst part of the fighting line, at a certain hill which you will no doubt have read about in the papers, hundreds killed and wounded nearly every day. Our battalion has had hard luck. Only at the front a week and lost a lot of men. But never mind the second line will make up for it when they come out here from England. It is hoped they will have better luck than we have had. " 08/05/1915

Thomas Carmoodie Alnwick CARMOODIE, Thomas Pt. Argyll & S. H. Alnwick kia Private Thos. Carmoodie, of Alnwick,
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, was killed on May 25th. He joined when was broke out. Deceased lived in Spours Yard, and worked for a little time with the Co-operative Society's butcher. His father is fighting in the Dardanelles. 10/07/1915
  CARR, Andrew Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd

Private Andrew Carr,

 7th N.F. age 20, miner at Shilbottle, is the son of Mr and Mrs. Carr, Gas Cottages, Alnwick. He joined the Battalion three years ago, and left for foreign service on April 20th. A card received says that he was shot through the eye, and is at Lincoln Hospital, progressing favourably.

William Carr Hepburn Bell CARR, W. Pte. 7th North'd Fus Hepburn Bell kia [Wooler Killed and Wounded]
Private W. Carr, son of Mr. John Carr, late of Hepburn Bell, of the 7th Northumberlands, has been killed in France. He was buried and a simple cross put up by some of his comrades. A sergeant read the burial service. He was spoken of as a good soldier. 26/06/1915

Private Wm. Carr, Hepburn Lodge.
Mr. John Carr, of Heburn Lodge (formerly Hepburn Bell), Old Berwick, has received official notice from the war office, together with an expression of the King's sympathy, that his son, Private Wm. Carr, of the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, was killed in action on the 16th inst. 10/07/1915
  CARR, William   7th North'd Fus Glanton Station wnd

Private William Carr,

 7th N.F., son of Mr Carr, Porter at Glanton Station, arrived home on Saturday from the Front. He is badly wounded in one arm. 29/05/1915

Wilfred Carson Alnwick CARSON, Wilfred L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Lance Corporal Wilfred Carson,
of Hall's Buildings, Pottergate, Alnwick, 7th N.F., has been admitted to hospital. Going on well. 1/05/1915

Word from Wilfred Carson -
Writing to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Carson, Pottergate, Alnwick, on Saturday. Private Wilfred Carson, 7th N.F., informs them that he is shot through the arm, and is now in hospital in Kent. "I was near Maurice Burn of Alnwick, when he was struck by a bullet on the head. I stopped to bandage him up and then started away by myself to catch up to my Company. We had to lie down. Just as we were getting up a bullet went through my arm. We lay about two hours until the firing slowed down then I bolted back for the trenches, where a few lads slit my coat sleeve and bandaged my arm. 15/05/1915
Charlton J.D. CHARLTON, Jos Pte. 7th North'd Fus Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Jos. Charlton, ....... 01/05/1915

Private J.D.Charlton.

7th Northumberland Fusiliers, son of Mr. Joseph Charlton, miner, Chevington Drift. Wounded in the hip....08/05/1915

Thomas Chrisp Wooler CHRISP, Thomas Pte.
&
Sgt.
Durham L.I. Wooler
&
Alnwick
wnd Private Thomas Chrisp, of Wooler.
Information has been received by his friends that private Thomas Chrisp, son of the late Inspector Chrisp, Wooler, has been wounded in action. Private Chrisp is an old Duke's School boy. 08/05/1915

Sergeant Thomas Chrisp of Alnwick
Sergeant Thomas Chrisp, Durham Light Infantry, (Bede College) is expected to arrive in Alnwick at the end of the week. He is the oldest son of Mrs. Chrisp and the late Inspector T. Chrisp, Northumberland Constabulary, Wooler, and a nephew of Inspector A. Sanderson and Mrs. Sanderson, Alnwick Castle Gardens Lodge. Sergeant T. Chrisp went out to the front with his battalion on April 19th and in the battle at Hill 60 on Sunday, April 25th, he was wounded, being shot through the left thigh and in the shoulder. He has been treated in several hospitals and latterly in a convalescent home at Derby. Sergeant Chrisp, (Reserve Machine Gun Section) is in his 23rd year. He has a brother and seven cousins serving in the Army. An old Duke's School boy he was a prominent player in their football team. Prior to entering Bede College, Sergeant Chrisp was a pupil teacher at the National Schools, Alnwick, and is well known to the young men of the town. 03/07/1915
  CLANCY, W.J. Sgt. 7th North'd Fus Radcliffe wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Sgt. W.J. Clancy, Radcliffe..... 01/05/15
J. Clark Belford CLARK, J. Pte.   Belford kia  
George Clarke Belford CLARKE, George Pte. 7th North'd Fus Sea Houses wnd Private Geo. Clark,
of Sea Houses, joined the 7th N.F. after the outbreak of war and is now in Oxford, wounded rather badly in the right arm. 26/06/1915
Walter Clarke CLARKE, Walter [sp. Clark?] Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick kia Private Walter Clark, Alnwick.
Private Walter Clark, 7th N.F., youngest son of Mr and Mrs R. Clark, Pottergate, Alnwick, is reported to have been killed in action. He served as apprenticeship as a brass finisher with Messrs. Hardy Bros, fishing rod and tackle manufacturers, Alnwick, and enlisted into the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers at the beginning of the war. The young soldier was very popular in Alnwick and athletics circles, being a keen footballer and was distinguished as a swimmer. In a letter to his wife at Dispensary Street, Alnwick, dated May 21st, Sgt. J. Donahoe, 7th N.F., says: — 'Private Walter Clark, I’m sorry to say, got knocked out the other day, and one or two of our men were wounded.' Another letter received by a friend in Alnwick states that: — 'Private Walter Clark was shot by a sniper.' His parents had received no official information up to Wednesday night. 5/06/1915
  CONNELL, James ? 6th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd

James Connell,

 of the 6th Batt, Northumberland Fusiliers, age 22, labourer, employed by Messrs, Green Bros, contractors. And son of Mrs Connell, Blythe's Yard, Alnwick, has been wounded. He left for foreign service on the 19th April. He attended St. John’s R.C. School, Alnwick.  1/05/1915

  CONNELL, James Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Private James Connell,

of the 7th N.F.  sends a letter to his parents. Mr and Mrs. James Connell, 3 Tower Lane, Alnwick- I have been wounded, and I am on my way to Dublin. It is not much, just a hole through my right arm. I got hit at Ypres on Monday afternoon, April 26th, Jim Davidson and I are together, and a lot more Alnwick lads. We have not been long away but we have seen a lot. We were in both of the charges made by the Canadians on Sunday and Monday. I have lost my kit, and almost everything. On April 30th we arrived at Dublin, It is great being in a ship with a lot of wounded soldiers. The men with two hands wash the faces of the men with one hand. 08/05/1915

  CONNOR, James Pte. 6th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private James Connor,
6th Battalion N.F., son of Mrs. Annie Connor and the late Mr. Michael Connor, Clayport Alnwick, is in hospital wounded. 1/05/1915
Bertie Cook Alnwick 1915 COOK, Bertie L/Cpl 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick kia Corporal C.B. Cook
Official news has been received by his parents, Mr and Mrs. C.H.G. Cook, of Barndale, Alnwick, that their second son, Corporal C.B. Cook (Bert.) has been killed in action on May 25th, the locality not being stated. Corporal Cook went to the front with the 1st/7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers on April 20th, and was engaged on the 27th. On May 10th (19th?) his 21st birthday was spent in the firing line. Bert was a scholar in the Duke's School, and afterwards was employed in the office of Mr. George Reavell, A.R.I.B.A., who is at present Lieut.-Colonel in command of the 7th Battalion (3rd Line). The young man was an apt pupil and made good progress in his procession under the direction of his employer and Mr. W. Arthur Tebbs. Always anxious to improve he became a pupil of the International Correspondence Schools, and made very promising headway. In a communication to Bert's father the Chief Correspondent states:- "We are indeed glad to say that while a student of the school your son made excellent progress, particularly in the drawing section of his course. He appears to have had extraordinary aptitude in the technical details of architectural drawing, and we are sure that had he been spared to you he would have been an ornament to his profession."
He received 96 out of 100 per cent marks for his drawings.
When a Boy Scout he attained to some distinction. He was a member of the 1st Alnwick Troop, Mr. C. Goodman head Scout Master. As a King's Scout he represented the Alnwick Troop at the Royal Rallies of Boy Scouts in Windsor Park on July 4th 1911. He subsequently enlisted into the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers and at the time of mobilisation was also secretary of the Boy Scouts Association, previously held by Mr. Euan Sanderson, Eastfield Hall. He was extremely fond of all outdoor sports. As a member of the Alnwick Amateur Swimming Club he gained the certificate and later the medallion for life saving. He had been a life long abstainer, his name standing second on the register of the I.O. Rechabites (Percy Tent) having joined when only six years of age, but at 15 years he transferred to the Hotspur Tent. He enlisted into the 7th N.F. two years prior to the declaration of war, and was one of the orderly room staff.
Bert was a fine lad and made friends of all, and his loss is regretted by everyone who knew him. In a letter to his friends, Private Arthur Fullerton (since killed) stated he buried Bert's body with as much care as possible and put a cross with his name over the grave, about 500 yards out of St Jean. 26/06/1915
Copeland_matthew COPELAND, Matthew Dmr. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Drummer M. Copeland.
Information has been received by his father, Mr. John Copeland, tailor, Alnwick, that his son Drummer Matthew Copeland, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, is lying wounded in hospital. He joined the fife and drum band of that battalion about three years ago. 01/05/1915
COTTERILL, Thomas Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Thomas Cotterill, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers.
Information has been received by his grandfather, Mr. John O'Brien, Correction House Lane, Alnwick, that Private Thomas Cotterill is in Hospital, having been wounded and gassed on May 9th. Private Cotterill was a member of the 7th N.F., prior to being mobilised. He was a postman at Alnwick Post Office. 10/07/1915
A. Coultard Alnwick COULTARD, A. Pte.   Alnwick kia  
George Cram CRAM, Geo. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill/
Chevington Drift
wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Geo. Cran, ....... 01/05/1915 [Spelling Cran v Cram]
  CUNNINGHAM, John Pte 7th North'd Fus. Radcliffe wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. John Cunningham, Radcliffe.... 01/05/15
J.D. Cunningam CUNNINGHAM, J.D.     Alnwick wnd (
  CURRY, Geo. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Geo. Curry, ....... 01/05/1915
Thomas Cuthbertson Sea Houses CUTHBERTSON, Thomas L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Sea Houses kia Death of a Sea Houses Soldier. —
 The news was received at Sea Houses on Friday evening, of the death from wounds received in action of Lance Corporal Thomas Cuthbertson, 7th N.F., at the General Hospital, Wimereux, Boulogne. Lance Corporal Cuthbertson, who was the youngest son of Mrs Cuthbertson, the respected hostess of the Bamburgh Castle Hotel, Seahouses, was in the service of the Bank of Liverpool at their Belford Branch. A member of the Territorial Force, he offered himself for foreign service on the outbreak of the war. He was only in his 19th year, and was a fine manly fellow, a typical soldier, and very popular was a large circle of friends. 19/06/1915
  DALBY, P. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... P. Dalby, ....... 01/05/1915 [Initial 'P' believed to be a misprint; two Dalby brothers from the Drift were with the regiment at this time; James and William. See forum thread]
W.E. Dalby DALBY, W.E. L/Cpl   Chevington Drift    
Darling, G.E. DARLING, G.E. Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd

Private G.E. Darling,

7th Northumberland Fusiliers, age 20, A grocer employed by Mr. Proctor, Morpeth and son of Mr. Thos. Darling, 12 King Street, Alnwick, is wounded. He joined the above regiment on Sept 6th and left for foreign service on April 20th. He writes “ I got wounded on Wednesday morning but am progressing A1. A 'Jack Johnson' burst and caught eight of us. At the time I was on duty for Major Joicey, taking his wallet. They took me Boulogne on Friday. I was brought over to England and I am in Huddersfield Royal Infirmary". ..08/05/1915

  DARLING, W.O.F. Lieut 3rd
R.I.R.
(attached
1st)
Co. Wexford
+
Carham
 &
Rock
kia Late Lieutenant W.O.F. Darling.
Lieutenant W.O. Fortescue Darling, 3rd Battalion (attached 1st), Royal Irish Rifles, who was killed in action France on October 16th, was eldest son of the late Reverend Oliver W. Darling, Rector of Killesk parish, County Wexford (formerly vicar of Carham and later of Rennington and Rock, Northumberland), and grandson of George Newman Dunn, of Summer Kinsale, Co. Cork. Born at Carham, September 11th, 1892, he was educated Braidlea, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, at Haileybury College, Hertfordshire, where he became a member of the O.T.C., and on the "Medway", one of the mercantile marine training vessels under Lord Brassey's scheme, serving with Messrs. Westcott and Lawrence from November, 1913, he returned home to volunteer on the outbreak of war, and was gazetted to the 14th Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles in September, 1914. Transferred to the 3rd Battalion in April, 1915, he was sent to France early in August, and was promoted lieutenant during the same month. A superior officer writes: — he had done excellent work whilst serving with this Division, and was a most prominent officer he was killed when out in charge of a patrol between our lines and the enemy. "You have every reason to be proud of his gallantry and his devotion to duty." — Sydney papers please copy. 6/11/1915
Private Alexander Davidson DAVIDSON, Alexander Pte.  7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Alexander Davidson,
oldest son of Mrs. and the late Mr. Ralph Davidson, grocer, sent to his mother an official card stating that he was wounded and in hospital. He was a member of D. Company, and for several years was on the band. Shortly before being drafted to France he left the band and volunteered for service abroad. While in the trenches at Cambois he was bugler for the Berwick Company. In his daily avocation he was a printer.
With the exception of Private Davidson, the postcards were all signed by the men themselves. Private Davidson's is supposed to have been written by the hospital nurse. 01/05/15

Private Alexander Davidson,

 In a letter to his sister in Lisburn Street, Alnwick says “ I got shot at--- on Sunday (April) 25th . One bullet went through my thigh and one through the top of my ankle. Both went right through for a good job. I am going on famous” the message was sent from the new Central Branch of the Manchester Infirmary. 08/05/1915


  DAVIDSON, Andrew Sgt-
Dmr.
7th North'd Fus. Alnwick kia Alnwick Soldier Reported Killed.
A letter received this week from Sergeant-Drummer R. Anderson by his friends in Alnwick, conveyed the sad news that Private Andrew Davison, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, has been killed in action. Private Davidson was the second son of the late Mr. Geo Davidson, Stoney Hills, and Hope House. 26/06/1915
  DAVIDSON, R. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Wooler wnd [Wooler Killed and Wounded]
Private R. Davidson, of Wooler, who is with the 7th Northumberlands out in France, has been wounded by shrapnel on the back of the neck. Before the war he worked as a tailor with Messrs. Atkinson and Son. 26/06/1915
James Davison, Alnwick DAVISON, James Pte 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Private James Davison,

7th N.F., employed by Ashington Coal Co., the second son of Mr. John Davison, 66, Clayport St. Alnwick, is wounded in the right hand, and is now in the British Red Cross Hospital in Dublin. He left for foreign service on April 20th.  08/05/1915

John Davison Longframlington DAVISON, John Pte.   Longframlington kia  
  DAWSON, A.B. A.B. RND Amble
Radcliffe
kia A.B. James Dawson, of Amble, Killed.
We regret to have to report the death of Able Seaman James Dawson, R.N.V.R., Collingwood Battalion, who was killed in action in the Dardanelles, June 17th, 1915.
He is the son of Mrs. Ellen and the late George Dawson, 2 Westcott Terrace, Penshaw, and late of Radcliffe Colliery. He also lived at Amble for some time. This brave youth was a good son, and a happy natured lad, and was most popular with his many friends. His untimely death is deeply deplored. Sympathetic references were made to his death at the the Amble Wesleyan Church on Sunday morning last, where he attended. He is one amongst the many brave young lads who have laid down their lives for their King and country in a great fight for civilisation and freedom. 3/07/1915
Adam Dennison DENNISON, Adam Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. Adam Dennison, Amble.... 01/05/15
  DEVON, D Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... D. Devon, ....... 01/05/1915
James Dixon Wooler DIXON, James Cpl   Wooler wnd  
George Dodds DODDS, George Sgt.   Alnwick wnd

News from Sergeant George Dodds.

On the a postcard written to his aunt, Miss J Dodds, 2 Lisburn Street, Alnwick Sergeant George Dodds, under date of the 29th May, informs her that he was wounded on Monday the 21st instant, by shrapnel above the eye. The piece was taking out on the 27th, and he was going on well. He was sorry to say he would not get home — hard luck. A good lot of ours have been lost, and his only hope was that the war would soon be over.

Sergeant George Dodds is the elder son of Mr George Dodds, formerly manager of the Alnwick working men’s club, and enlisted into the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers early in September he is a Duke’s School scholar. 05/06/1915

  DONKIN, Thomas Lieut. 7th North'd Fus. Rothbury wnd Lieut. T. Donkin, of Rothbury.
Two telegraphic messages received this (Friday) morning state that Lieut. Tom Donkin, son of Mr. Robert Donkin, auctioneer, of Rothbury, who is with the 7th, was wounded in the foot by a shell. 01/05/1915

Second-Lieut. Donkin,

of the 7th N.F. age 20, is an auctioneer with Messrs. J. Thornborrow & Co, of Penrith, and the son of Mr. R. Donkin, of Rothbury.  He joined on December 1914, and left for foreign service on 19th April. He has been wounded in the right foot by shrapnel, and is now in Guy’s Hospital, London. Lieut, Donkin is a Corchester School and Sedbergh College boy.  08/05/1915

Douglas J.B. DOUGLAS, J.B. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. J.B. Douglas, Amble.... 01/05/15 [photo]

[same man below?]
Amble Soldier describes scene in a trench.

Private John Douglas, of 41 Gordon Street, Amble, who is at present in hospital at Oxford, writes home to the effect that he got laid out at the charge of Hooge on Wednesday, June 16th by an explosive bullet, but he is little the worse. The bullet burst on his face and shaved his head. He feels worst about his eyes. He is having a good rest. He thinks there would be little of the 7th left, for they got an awful cutting up. They lost a lot of men that day, but the Germans lost thousands. They were throwing their dead up on the top of the trench by scores. The Northumberland Fusiliers took three lines of trenches in twenty minutes off the Germans. As soon as the enemy saw the cold steel they all started squealing and shouting for mercy, but they got none. The dug-outs in the ground were full of Germans. They would not come out, so the bomb throwers just threw a bomb or two in and blew them out. There was one poor lad about 14 or 15 years of age lying in the first trench that was taken with his leg broken, saying his prayers when we got up to him. There were old men too. If it had not been their (the British) own shells bursting amongst them they would have cut the Germans to pieces, for they had them on the run. 26/06/1915
             
T.E.M. Dover DOVER, T.E.M. Cpl. 7th
North'd Fus.
Alnwick wnd Corpl. Thomas E.M. Dover,
 “D” Company, 7th Batt. N.F. is 20 years of age and a joiner at Mr. Hugh Archbold’s. He is the eldest son of Mr. J.R. Dover, baker, Alnwick. He was a member of the “D” Company, N.F. (Territorials). He joined the regiment about three years ago and volunteered for foreign service. A letter received on the 29th April, stated that he had been wounded through the ankle, and was lying in the field hospital. When last heard from he was going on well.  08/05/1915
DRYDEN, Robert T. Pte. 8th
North'd Fus.
Ilderton wnd Private Dryden of Wooperton.
News has been received from the war office by Mr and Mrs Dryden, Ilderton, informing them that their son Private Robert T. Dryden, 8th Northumberland Fusiliers, was wounded in action on November 5th. 27/11/1915
G. Dunn Low Hedgeley DUNN, G Pte. 2nd
North'd Fus.
Low Hedgeley wnd Private George Dunn, of Low Hedgeley.
News has been received by Mr and Mrs Dunn, from their son Private George Dunn, at the front, stating that he was wounded in the leg caused by a big shell in the great battle of Ypres on Whit-Monday. He was on the machine guns section 7th N.F., and went out with his regiment on April 20. He is now in Liverpool infirmary; doing well. 12/06/1915
  EAMES, Cyril Pte. Royal
Engineers
Alnwick wnd [list: Alnwick men wounded in the war]
 
Private Cyril Eames of the Royal Engineers, struck by a shell splinter, slight wounded, now in hospital at Stobhill, Glasgow. Private Eames is the youngest of two sons of Mr. T.B. Eames, postmaster at Alnwick, and is expected to be at home with his parents in the next few days. 10/10/14
  EDRIDGE, P. L/Cpl. 7th
North'd Fus.
Alnwick
 Moor
wnd

 Lance-Corpl. P. Edridge,

 7th N.F. age 20, warehouseman with Messrs, Graham & Henderson, residing with his relative, Mrs. Hook, at the Summit, Alnwick Moor, joined on the 7th September 1914, and left for foreign service on April 20th. On May the 3rd a postcard was received saying he was wounded in the right shoulder. He is in hospital. Lance-Corporal Edridge attended the National School Alnwick, and is a member of the Oddfellows Lodge. Mrs. Hook has two sons serving in the 7th, one in France and one at home.

Lance Corporal Edridge, of Alnwick, on Strange Coincidence.

An interesting letter has been received by Messrs. Graham and Henderson from one of their employees now serving at the front “somewhere in France,” viz., Lance Corporal Edridge, 1st/7th N.F., of the Summit, Alnwick Moor. He expresses thanks for pipe and tobacco and cigarettes, and says that he shared that kindness amongst his friends. Of the fighting he reports that the had taken some machine guns. He says: — although we lost heavily, the enemy lost more. In the charge alone “the Kilties” lost only ten so that will tell you. Do not think that we have lost heavily, only some killed and a few injured. It was an awful day of bombarding, from 3 a.m. till 5 — 1 continual bark of our guns, then a whistle, then quietness — only for a second — and after that the explosion. You see trenches, men, guns, and sandbags flying in all directions. Then there is the charge, but they cannot face our steel. About turn, double! — And they do run! I wrote to you about two weeks ago. I expect you got my letter. I see Mr J. Godfrey has lost a brother killed in action. He was on the 1st Canadians. There are rumours going here that we are coming back again to England; but it is too good to be true. One has no idea of the state of things here. War is war, but this is not. The enemy is very treacherous, especially to our wounded when they find them; but we are steadily gaining ground… [continues]  26/06/1915

  ELLIOTT, J. Pte. 7th
North'd Fus.
Wooler/Morpeth wnd Private J. Elliott,
 No. 2312, 7th Battalion N.F., of 3 Pretoria Avenue, Morpeth, formally of Wooler, is wounded in hospital at Dundee. 15/08/1915
ELLIOTT, James D. Cpl Royal
Engineers
Togston accd
wnd
Accident to a Togston Soldier.
Corporal James D. Elliott, Royal Engineers, of Togston Barns, Acklington, is now in hospital in Kent through an accident he met with in France. 18/12/1915
  ELLIOTT, J.W. Pte. 7th
North'd Fus.
Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte J.W. Elliott, Amble.... 01/05/15
ELLIOTT, Robert Pte.   Amble
&
Alnwick
wnd Private Robert Elliott Wounded.
Private Robert Elliott, has been wounded in the hand and gassed. He is the eldest son of Mr John Elliott, late of Alnwick, now residing at Amble, and is now in hospital, in Hubenham Hall*, Norfolk. *Hedenham Hall? 6/11/1915
W.P. Elliott Alnwick ELLIOTT, W.P. L/Cpl. 10th
D.L.I.
Alnwick
&
Ashington
kia Lance Corpl. Wm. P. Elliot,
10th Durham Light Infantry, younger son of Mrs. and the late Mr. Geo. Elliott, Queen Street, Alnwick has been killed in action. The painful intelligence was received on Sunday morning in a letter sent by Captain Braithwaite, commanding 'C' Company 10th Durham Light Infantry. After expressing his deep regret, Captain Braithwaite says: "Your son was killed in action. His death was instantaneous owing to being shot in the head. He was buried with full military honours on active service, Kindly accept the deepest sympathy from the officers, non-commissioned officers and men of C Company. His loss was greatly felt here, as he was a good soldier and respected by all ranks. He died as he lived, a good and faithful soldier and servant of his king and country.
L.-Corpl. W.P. Elliot, who attained his 23rd year on the 4th June, prior to enlisting at the outbreak of the war, was a teacher in the school at Ashington, being certified from Rutherford College. 10/07/1915
George Egdell EGDELL, George W. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Stirring Narrative by an Alnwick Terrier.

Private George W. Egdell. Of the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, writes from Castle Hospital, Dublin, to Mr. John Archbold, draper, Fenkle Street, Alnwick, as follows:- You will perhaps think by now that I have forgot all about writing, but I have never had the chance to let you know how I was getting on or where I was. I will tell you as much as I can now. You will know we left Cambois on Tuesday, 20th April, at 1pm, and were in France by 3-30 the next morning- a very quick bit of work. If the train had gone a few yards further it would have gone into the sea. We got on to the boat, and were off in 15 minutes, and crossed the Channel in one hour and twenty minutes… That night (Wednesday) we marched about 12 miles to the station. And then what a ride in cattle trucks, about 70 in each, hardly room to stand, never mind sleep, for we were all tired and hungry. We travelled six hours this way, and then had to march about another 15 miles. We landed about 8pm, on Thursday, and cooked our food and slept in a wood with one blanket. A good job it was a warm night. We were by this time just behind the firing line. And could hear the guns and rifles going all night- in fact half of our battalion were put in the reserve trenches. We got up the next morning to find they put a big gun in the same field as us, and it was doing some good work, as our aircraft was directing its shooting. The aeroplanes here were like flies, three our four in the air at once. We moved off again at night, (we were now in Belgium), and marched until we came to Ypres. There was, we were told about 10,000 on that march, and we were near the end. We got into the middle of the town and then stopped. We had just stood ten minutes, when a shell burst beside us, and then they came like hailstones, setting fire to a good few houses quiet close to us. Then one burst above us. It hit the lad next to me and wounded four of our lads. We now went towards the firing line with shells coming at us like hailstones- and it was raining. We got there about four on Sunday morning and had to lie down waiting for orders. We now made a charge of about a mile and a half and lost a good many. We fell back a bit for the night and made another attack on Monday afternoon. It started about 3-30, and what a sight. I got right up to them and was hit with a big shell. I crawled up a ditch. It was full of dead. So after my brother dressed my wounds. I shook hands with him and ran as fast as I could across the field. I went about four miles and got dressed. The shell had caught my left cheek and a bit of my nose and upper lip, and had split the back of my left hand, but I think they will mend all right. Tell me if you can how the other lads are going on. But I hope I will be with you all soon, and also the tailors as well. I will tell you more the next time I write. I was 60 hours on the water, and just got off the boat last night, and have just got this writing paper from the hospital. I can eat all right, in fact it seems to have made me eat more. They have had the X-Rays on my hand, and the second finger joint is not much hurt.  08/05/1915

FALLOW, George Pte. 1/5th
HLI
Bilton
&
Alnwick
dow Private George Fallow of Bilton.
Private George Fallow 1/5th Highland Light Infantry died on 27th November at Floriana Military Hospital, Malta, from wounds received at the Dardanelles. He was a son of Mr B. Fallow, signalman Alnmouth station, and many in Alnwick will remember him. He served an apprenticeship with Messrs J.M. Scott, and son, drapers, Alnwick. About four years ago he removed to Glasgow and was employed by Arthur and Co. Ltd. until the war commenced when he immediately enlisted and went through the necessary training at Leven. He was sent to the Dardanelles in June, where he received a gunshot wound in the neck on the 16th, injuring his spine and causing complete paralysis. 11/12/1915
Farr O  FARR, Oliver Pte. 7th
North'd Fus.
Alnwick  wnd

Private Oliver Farr,

 7th N.F. age 19, apprentice engineer with the Alnwick Foundry, is the son of Mr. and Mrs John Farr, 16 Duke Street Alnwick. He joined on the 3rd of September, and left for foreign service on April 20th. A postcard states that he is in the Canadian Hospital with shrapnel wounds to the head. Private Farr attended the Duke’s School Alnwick.

  FENWICK, William Pte. 10th Yorks
Regt
Whittingham wnd Whittingham Man Wounded.
Mr and Mrs A. Fenwick, Whittingham, have received official information that their son, Private William Fenwick, 10th Yorkshire Regiment, has been wounded. A month ago it was reported that their son had been killed in action. 6/11/1915
  FENWICKE-CLENNELL Lieut. 7th
 North'd Fus?
Harbottle wnd Rothbury and District Wounded.
 Lieut. Fenwicke Clennell,

of Harbottle, was wounded on April 26th. He has arrived in Newcastle and is going on well.  08/05/1915
John Fife FIFE, John Pte. 7th
North'd Fus.
Alnwick wnd

Private John Fife of Alnwick.

Mrs. Fife of Patten’s yard, on Tuesday morning received a field postcard from her son John Fife of the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers in France, stating at he was wounded. By the same post she also received a postcard from Southampton dated [?] May, stating “ I am leaving Southampton for Aberdeen, for hospital. I will not be long in being home to see you.” His mother relayed to us “I am pleased we've got him home in England.”  He is the elder of Mrs. Fife's two sons, both of whom are under the colours, the younger one Private Wilfred Fife, in the Army Service Corps, is now in [...?...], was employed at Shilbottle Colliery.  John the wounded one is 22 years of age and was employed at the Shilbottle coal depot, Alnmouth Road. Mrs. Fife  came from Wooperton to Alnwick 17 years ago.   ..08/05/1915


Private J. Fife, of Alnwick,
Referred to in another column, writes to his mother from hospital in Aberdeen, saying he is progressing. He describes the journey across to France and the march through Ypres into the trenches. " I had to stop with the Colonel's horse at the village where I was wounded. I was getting some things off the pack-horse when a big 'Jack Johnson' came over and blew the horse's head right off and I got the rest. I have got 22 Shrapnel wounds in my leg, arm, shoulder and hip. The doctor says I will soon be better and home to see you all." 08/05/1915
Alexander Fletcher FLETCHER, Alexander Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick kia Private Alexander Fletcher,
 7th N.F., Alnwick, has died of wounds. The deceased was engaged as a shop assistant with Messrs. Reavell Bross., hardwaremen, and when war was declared he enlisted into the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, and with his battalion went out to the fighting line on April 20th. He received a bullet wound in the head and another in the leg. He was treated in a hospital in France and subsequently sent to Carlisle hospital, where he died from his wounds on Saturday. His remains were conveyed to his home at Galashields and interred in the cemetery there on Tuesday afternoon. While in Alnwick Private Fletcher lodged with Mrs. Sergeant, Hope Cottage, Percy Terrace. 15/5/1915
  FLINTOFF, Jack Pte.   Alnwick kia Private Jack Flintoff,
youngest son of the late Churchill and Mrs. Flintoff, formerly of Bondgate Hill, Alnwick and now of Heighington, Durham, has been killed in action at the Dardanelles. The deceased was a very popular young man during his residence in Alnwick. He took an interest in athletic affairs, especially in football, and was one of the leading playing members of the Percy Rovers Club. He was also well known on the local concert platform. Jack Flintoff is remembered for his happy and sunny disposition and a wide circle of old chums and friends will sincerely regret his loss. He was an old Duke's School boy. 26/06/1915  [Arthur John Flintoff, Watsons Bay, Sydney, Australia, joined the 4th Battalion AIF and was killed in action on the 1st May 1915, Gallipoli. A widower, his will left his estate to Miss Dora Read, Watsons Bay, Sydney. Jack is not recorded on the Alnwick War Memorial]
George Foreman Alwinton FOREMAN, George Pte.   Alwinton wnd  
  FOREMAN, Ted Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Rothbury
/Harbottle?
wnd Private Ted Foreman,
7th N.F. age 19, employed at home, is the second son of Mr. and Mrs. G. Foreman, he joined on February, 1914, and left for foreign service on April 21st. A postcard has been received from him saying he is in hospital in France. “Am keeping well and wound going on all right, I am going to have the piece of shrapnel extracted. John (brother) was all right when I left him,” Private Ted Foreman was wounded with shrapnel on the left shoulder. He was a scholar of Harbottle School. He has two brothers and a cousin all serving in the 7th N.F. Three of them are in France.  08/05/1915
FORSTER, John Spr. Royal
Engineers
Alnwick   Roll of Honour.
Killed
Sapper Jno. Forster, formerly of Alnwick 27/11/1915
  FULLERTON, Arthur     Abbey Lands kia Word about fallen Alnwick soldiers.
The cowardice of Germans.

In a letter dated June 17th received from the Font by Mr Frank Smith, Clayport, Alnwick, his nephew Sergeant Rd. Smith, who is serving with the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, gives the following interesting information, while expressing sincere regret at the loss of some of his comrades-in-arms. "In one engagement, " he says, "we took a lot of German prisoners, but at what a cost! The Germans made an attack on our trenches on Tuesday night. They got about half way towards our trench when our men went out to meet them-and what a slaughter! The Germans got down on their knees and cried for mercy. But, if you had seen what I have seen, you would not give them any mercy. Last night (Wednesday), our lads had had that game played on them before too often. We have had a very heavy loss, a good number of Alnwick lads being killed, including poor Arthur Fullerton of Abbey Lands. He was killed last night (June 16th). He worked at the Dairy. His brother Jim is all right yet. Tomorrow is Waterloo Day, and I expect a wholesale slaughter." In a postscript he adds, "Mrs Gray's son, Andrew, was killed last night (June 16th). Mrs. Gray lives in Green Bat. 26/06/1915
  GEECH, J.W. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Stobswood/ Alnwick wnd Private J.W. Geech,
who was employed as a barber by Mr. John Brown, Market Street, has written to some friends in Alnwick that he is in hospital wounded, but going on quite well. Geech, who is a native of Stobswood, enlisted into the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers just after declaration of war........ 01/05/1915
G.W. Geggie Amble GEGGIE, G.W. Pte.   Amble kia Lance Corporal J.W. Geggie, of Amble,
Mr George Geggie has had word from the War Office with reference to his son. The document runs as follows: — "I regret to inform you that a report has this day (June 4th) been received from the War Office to the effect that number 2362, Lance corporal J.W. Geggie, of the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, was posted as missing after an engagement abroad, on 29 April." It is the fervent wish of all his friends and Amble that he will be heard of again, for he was, like Private Harbottle, much respected in the town. 19/06/1915
  GIBSON, Geo. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Geo. Gibson, ....... 01/05/1915
Goodfellow GOODFELLOW, Adam Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Private A. Goodfellow,

of the 7th N.F.. was a pitman employed by the Shilbottle Coal Company, and a son of Mr Adam Goodfellow, Clayport Street, Alnwick. He left for foreign service on 20th April. His wife received a telegram on Tuesday saying he had been wounded on the left leg and was in hospital, but was going on well. Private Goodfellow joined the above regiment a good many years ago. .. 08/05/1915

 

Private Adam Goodfellow,

 1st 7th N.F. third son of Mr, Adam Goodfellow,  Clayport, Alnwick. He enlisted into the 7th N.F. about 8 years ago and went on foreign service on April 20th. He was wounded in the left leg by shrapnel, but says not seriously. He is at present in hospital at Clitheroe, Lancashire. He is employed at Shilbottle Colliery. He is married and has a family.  08/05/1915

James Goodfellow GOODFELLOW, James L/Cpl 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Lance-Corpl. James Goodfellow Killed in Action.
Official news was received on Sunday morning by Mr and Mrs Matthew Goodfellow, Bondgate Tower, Alnwick, from the Territorial Forces Record Office, York, that their son Lance-Corpral James Goodfellow has been killed in action, the locality not being stated, on the 26th April.
Accompanying the ill-tidings was the following message:- "Mr, M. Goodfellow: The King commands me to assure you of the true sympathy of His Majesty and the Queen in your sorrow. - Kitchener."
Lance-Corporal James Goodfellow was the second son of Mr. Matthew Goodfellow, who has a tobacco manufacturer's business in Paikes Street, Alnwick. He was 31 years of age. He served his apprenticeship for a grocer with Messrs. Sanderson, Corn Exchange Buildings and was afterwards employed for a number of years behind the counter of the Co-operative Society in Fenkle Street. He won the best esteem of his employers. When the war broke out he enlisted for foreign service into the 7th Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers, into the same company in which his father had served forty years and who was for several years Colour-Sergeant of the Company. His elder brother Luke Goodfellow, was a sergeant in the company. Mr Matthew Goodfellow while serving was generally recognised as one of the best volunteers. He was present at Her Majesty's Review in Queen's Park, Edinburgh, in August 1881, and then held the non-commissioned rank. He distinguished himself as a marksman both at the Wimbledon and Bisley meetings, as well as at local and county competitions. Among other prizes he holds the Chipchase Cup, won in 1883 when the Sniders were in use. Much Sympathy is felt in the town for the bereaved family. 22/05/1915
  GRAHAM, George Arthur   7th North'd Fus. Belford wnd Private George Arthur Graham, of Belford.
7th N.F., age 22, is a baker, employed at his mother’s bakery, High Street, Belford. She received a letter from him stating that he is in St. Bartholomew’s Hospital London. He is wounded in the ankle. He joined the above regiment 7 years ago and left for foreign service a fortnight ago. He attended the National School, Belford, and is a member of the Belford Lodge of Oddfellows. 08/05/1915
W. Graham, Belford GRAHAM, W. Sgt.   Belford    
             
Robert Green GREEN, Robert L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Lance-Corpl. Robt. Green,

 7th N.F., draper, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. William Green Fenkle Street and Paikes Street. Alnwick is wounded. He joined the above regiment on September 11th, and left for foreign service on April 20th. Lance-Corpl. Green was a prominent member of the Alnwick Cricket Club, and being a good bass singer, was connected with the musical societies in Alnwick. He frequently appeared in concerts in the town and was much appraised. He attended the Duke’s School, Alnwick. 08/05/1915

J. Gregory, Bamburgh GREGORY, J. Pte. ? Bamburgh wnd Bamburgh and North Sunderland.
 Private J. Gregory, of Bamburgh, (a joiner with Mr. R.R. Mackenzie, of Seahouses), wounded in the foot is in hospital in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, and Private Wm. Taylor of Bamburgh, is in hospital in France with an arm wound. Both are doing well. The Vicar of Bamburgh has enquired through the War Office about the Brothers Wake of Bamburgh. No information has been received there.  08/05/1915
J.R. Haddon Belford HADDON,
 John Robert
Pte 7th North'd Fus. Belford wnd  Belford Men Wounded.
News has been received at Belford that Private George Blackhall has been wounded in the head, and Private John Hadden? in the Shoulder. Both men were in the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, and only left for the front about a week ago. 01/05/1915

Private John Robert Haddon,

of Belford, 7th Batt. N.F. age 27, gamekeeper with Mr Blackett-Ord of Whitfield, and son of Mr. and Mrs. Haddon, North Lodge, Belford, sent a field postcard to his mother saying he was wounded. His wife, Mrs. Haddon, received at Belford, on Tuesday last week, a letter from the hospital in France stating that the wound was in the left shoulder caused by shell. He has again written from the red cross hospital at Hayes, Kent saying that he was still in bed, that the wound was jagged one and it would be probably six weeks before he could get home. He writes of the terrible and exciting experiences he went through, and also of the fine treatment he is receiving in hospital. Of Private Haddon’s two children, one a baby boy, has been born since his father enlisted. Mrs. Haddon has two brothers in France in the 7th who left for the front on the same day as her husband. A letter was received from them on Tuesday saying they were well. Private Haddon attended Belford School and was a member of the Belford Young Men’s Society.  08/05/1915
Phillip Hall Amble HALL, Phillip Pte. A.I.F. Amble kia Private Philip Hall Amble and Ashington.
Mrs. Thompson of Ashington has received the sad news of her brother, who died of wounds received at the Dardanelles, on May 15th and was laid to rest at Alexandria, in Egypt. He was a painter with Mr Neil Young, of Amble. He emigrated to Australia in 1911 and when war broke out enlisted for service in the Australian contingent. 10/7/1915
  [His Australian service papers have his trade as a "Paper Hanger", apprenticeship served with Mr Young, 5 years. He enlisted on the 13th October 1914 in Western Australia, aged 23 years and 9 months. He was 5' 9", Dark complexion, blue eyes, dark brown hair. His next of kin was his brother John, also living in Australia.  He joined the 16th Battalion and proceeded to Gallipoli on the 12th April 1915. On the 2nd May he received a gunshot wound to the abdomen, and was evacuated the next day to the 17th General Hospital at Alexandria, arriving on the 6th. Here his wounds are described as 'gunshot wounds to lower spine and left and right thigh - severe.' On the 13th he is described as dangerously ill. On the 16th he died of wounds and was buried on the 22nd in Chatby Military Cemetery. Surviving Army correspondence with his next of kin reveal another brother; 5023 Private William Hall 28th Battalion A.I.F. was also killed in the war, so three brothers were at one time in Australia, with a married sister left in Ashington.]
Andrew Hanton Alnwick HANTON, Andrew Dmr. 7th
North'd Fus.
Alnwick dow Drummer A. Hanton, of Alnwick, Dies from Wounds.
 Andrew Hanton, of the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers a reel-maker with Messrs. Hardy Bros., and son of Mr and Mrs William Hanton, of Roxburgh Place, Alnwick, has, we regret to state, died from wounds. His parents have received information of the sad occurrence from a nursing sister at No.2 casually clearing station of the Expeditionary Force, through the Rev Canon Mangin . He was brought into this hospital very severely wounded in the head, and quite unconscious. Everything possible was done for him by the surgeon and nurses, but they had no hope for his recovery. The staff at the hospital express sincere sympathy with the bereaved family. Four years ago the lad enlisted into the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, and his time of service was just about expired when he was called up, the first night that war was declared. He went to the front with his battalion on the 20th April. Drummer Hanton’s father was a soldier in the 27th Scottish Rifle Brigade and was engaged in the Ashanti war in 1873-4 and holds the Coomassie Medal and bars. 29/05/1915
  HANVEY, Cpl 15th
North'd Fus.
(Attached
8th)
Alnmouth kia An Alnmouth Hero.
Corporal Hanvey, Alnmouth, 15th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (attached to the 8th), has been killed in action, on October 12th, at the Dardanelles. 13/11/1915
William Harbottle Amble HARBOTTLE, William Pte. 7th
North'd Fus.
Amble kia Private W Harbottle Dies from Wounds.
We regret to announce the death of another of our young soldiers, the news of which was sent by his Captain. We refer to Private William Harbottle, who died "somewhere in France" from his wounds. He is the son of Mr William Harbottle, of Middleton Street, Amble, who has another son fighting for his country. He like many others of our young men, soon after war was declared, took up arms for his country against the enemy. The deepest sympathy is manifested for his parents in their sad loss. The letter from his officer, Capt N.E.Smail sent to to Private Harbottle's father, was as follows: — "I am very sorry to have to report to you that your son, No. 2414 Private W. Harbottle, No. 1 Company, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, died of wounds on the 2nd instant. He was shot through the head by a sniper on or about 30th May and was conveyed to hospital. I have official intimation that he had died yesterday, and that he had been duly buried. Please accept my sincere sympathy." 19/06/1915
Leslie Hardy  HARDY, Leslie  Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Leslie Hardy, Alnwick,
of 7th N.F., age 19, employed with messrs. Hardy Bros., Ltd., Alnwick, son of Mr. Foster Hardy, 61 Pall Mall, London, and nephew of the Messrs., Hardy Bros., is in hospital. He joined the above regiment in September, and left for foreign service on April 20th. He was wounded by a bullet in the head. As a result he underwent an operation and it was found necessary to extract the right eye. He is going on satisfactorily by the latest account received from Boulogne Hospital. 08/05/1915
  HAYNES, John Pte. 3rd North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private John Haynes,
3rd Battalion N.F., son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Haynes, Stamp's Yard Alnwick is lying in hospital wounded in the foot. He has sent a cheerful letter to his parents. 01/05/1915
James Hedley Alnwick HEDLEY, J.A. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick kia Private J.A. Headley,
 7th N.F., a son of Sergeant Edward Hedley, Dodds' Lane, Alnwick, is reported to have been killed in action. Though his parents have got no official information, yet letters received from brother soldiers state that such is the fact. His Company was retiring out of the firing line at Ypres, when he was struck by a shell and killed. 15/05/1915

Private James Hedley, Alnwick.

Official information was received on Monday by Quartermaster Sergeant T.R. Hedley, Dodds Lane, Alnwick that his son Private James Hedley, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, had been killed in action on 29th April.

Lieutenant Colonel G. Scott Jackson, commanding the 7th N.F., writing to the parents of the deceased soldier, says: — “I am very sorry to inform you that your worst fears are correct. Your poor son was killed in action by the bursting of the shell. He was properly buried. He died the soldier’s death, and was a very good soldier too. I deeply regret his loss, and you have my most heartfelt sympathy.”

Further confirmation of Private James Hedley’s death is given in a letter received from Company Quartermaster Sergeant Cutler, and further that his remains were buried at St Julien.

Private James Hedley had served three years in the D. Company (Alnwick) 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, and was drafted with his battalion to the front on April 20. He was an employment of Messrs. Hardy Bros., Fishing rod and tackle manufacturers. Private Hedley’s father, Quartermaster Sergeant T.R. Hedley is an old campaigner and is still serving with the colours he joined the King’s Own Scottish Borderers when a young man and with this regiment he fought in the Nile expedition. He holds the Egyptian Medal and the Khedive’s Star. He subsequently came to Alnwick as a reservist, and when the South African war broke out he was called up to join the colours and was garrisoned at Edinburgh Castle. On again returning to Alnwick he was employed by Messrs. Hardy Bros. Keen for soldering, when the National Reserve was formed in the town he enrolled as a member and served in that unit until the present war was declared, when he volunteered as a National Guard. He was stationed at Wallsend Slipway, and it was not long before he was promoted Sergeant. Quite recently he was raised to the higher rank of quartermaster Sergeant. After hearing of the death of his boy he volunteered for active service at the front and was accepted, and on Tuesday last he departed for France with the draft from the Northumberland Fusiliers. 29/05/1915

A. Henderson  HENDERSON, A  Pte. 7th
North'd Fus.
Branton wnd

Private Adam Henderson,

of the 7th N.F. age 19 a gardener employed at Branton, and nephew of Mr. J Thain of Grey Croft, Alnwick, who joined in September, and left for foreign service on the 19th April, has been wounded in the hand and is in hospital in Belfast. He attended Ingram School. 08/05/1915


Private Adam Henderson,

 of the 7th Batt. N.F., aged 19, gardener, employed by Mr. W. Pringle, Branton, is the son of Mrs. Henderson, of Branton, daughter of the late Adam Sisterson (Gamekeeper to Major Joicey at Linhope). He joined the above regiment at the outbreak of war and left for foreign service on April 20th. He has sent a postcard to his mother saying he is wounded in the left hand and is in hospital at Belfast. Private Henderson went to Ellingham School, in which district he lived before going to Branton. 15/05/1915
  HENDERSON, G.H.   Pte. 6th
Royal Scots
Wooler sk In Hospital. —
Mr W.A. Henderson, Draper, Wooler, has received news that his eldest son Sergeant G.H. Henderson, 6th Royal Scots, is suffering from dysentery, and in hospital at Cairo, Egypt, but is now progressing favourably. The above will be remembered by many as an old Duke School boy. 6/11/1915
John Alfred Henderson Wooler HENDERSON, John Alfred Pte. 6th
Manc. R.
Wooler wnd Wooler Territorial Wounded at the Dardanelles.
Writing from a hospital in Malta on the 11th inst., to his parents at Wooler, Private John Alfred Henderson says he has been wounded, having received a bullet wound through his left thigh, but that no bones were damaged. On falling he got another shot in the middle of the back, which hit his razor and brush, smashing them to atoms, which was probably the means of saving his life. "I got shot (he writes) when we were making a bayonet charge. The Turks could not face the cold steel, but jumped out of their trenches and ran, and they can run, too! I am proud of the 6th, as they stuck it well...[section difficult to read in our copy].......after leaving the Duke's School at Alnwick he went to serve his apprenticeship as an electrical engineer, with the British Westinghouse Co., Trafford Park, Manchester. He joined the 6th Manchesters (Territorial) over two years ago. The Regiment volunteered for active service at the outbreak of the war, and was sent to Egypt in September where they underwent their training. 26/06/1915
J.W. Henderson HENDERSON J.W.     Chevington Drift    
  HENDERSON, Wm. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Wm. Henderson, ....... 01/05/1915
Harry Hetherington Alnwick Moor HETHERINGTON, Harry Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick Moor kia

Private Harry Hetherington Killed.

Official news was received on Tuesday night by his parents, Mr and Mrs T. Hetherington, Alnwick Moor, that private Henry Hetherington, their 3rd son, had been killed in action on 15th May. The deceased leaves a widow and 5 young children. He enlisted into the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (1st Line), at the beginning of the war, and went out with his battalion to the front on the 20th April. The father of the deceased was for many years a member of the Common Council of the Borough of Alnwick, and in the early years of the 2nd Northumberland (Percy) Volunteer Artillery was one of the bandsman of the brigade. 05/06/1915

Private Harry Hetherington,

7th Northumberland Fusiliers, who was killed in action on the 15th May, was the fourth son of Mr and Mrs Thomas Hetherington, Alnwick Moor, and enlisted into the 7th Battalion at the beginning of the war. Private Harry Hetherington was 33 years of age, and for 9 years was employed under the Duke of Northumberland prior to enlistment. Mr and Mrs Hetherington have other two sons at the front, the eldest, Cpl Saddler John T. Hetherington, and Sergeant Tom Hetherington their second son. Both are in the 13th Hussars, and went through the Boer War together. 12/06/1915

 

  HETHERINGTON, Henry   6th North'd Fus. Alnwick kia Corporal Henry Hetherington
We understand that Corporal Henry Hetherington, 6th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, Newcastle, was killed in action on April 28th official news to that effect having been received by relatives. Corpl. Henry Hetherington was well known in Alnwick, amongst the younger generation as a youth of sterling qualities. He was apprenticed for a printer at the works of the "Alnwick and County Gazette," during which time he became associated with the Swimming Club and other athletic institutions, and was also enrolled as a member of the 7th Battalion N.F. On leaving the town he transferred into the 6th Battalion and went to the front with this unit. It will be in the memory of a good many people in the district of a railway accident at Whittingham Railway Station through which his father "Harry Hetherington" met his death, and who had been himself a soldier. 26/06/1915
Hewitt, W. Lesbury HEWITT, W. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Bilton wnd Private W. Hewitt,
7th Battalion N.F. aged 28, engine driver employed by the Shilbottle Colliery, has sent a postcard to his wife, Mrs. Hewitt, Bilton, Lesbury, stating that he is wounded in the head, leg and arm. He joined the above regiment several years ago, and left for foreign service on the 18th April. A later communication was received from him on the 3rd May. In this he said he was going on well. School soldier attended: Lesbury. Member of Oddfellows Lodge. Private Hewitt is on the Transport of the 7th Batt, N.F. and is lying in the Base Hospital in France. 08/05/1915
Thomas Hogg HOGG, Thomas Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Thomas Hogg,
7th Northumberland Fusiliers, who was previous to enlistment, work as a Mason in Alnwick, has been wounded by a German sniper. He was hit in the leg, which was broken by the bullet, and is lying in hospital "somewhere in France." 12/06/1915
  HOGG, William Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Private William Hogg, second son of Mr James Hogg, flour dealer, returned home to Alnwick on Saturday night, wounded. Shortly after the war was declared, he enlisted into the 7th N.F., and was drafted out with his battalion to the front on the 20th April. He was on the signalling detachment, and was struck by a bullet, wounding his left hand, on April 25th. He was first treated in the Canadian Hospital in France and was thence transferred to a hospital in North Wales. He is going on very well 29/05/1915

J.F. Hood HOOD, J.F. Sgt. 7th North'd Fus. Rothbury wnd Sergeant J.F. Hood,
1st Line 7th N.F. age 19, saddler, employed by Mr. J.S. Hunter, is the son of Mr. and Miss Hood, Rodsley Place, Rothbury. He went on foreign service on April 19th. He wrote from a hospital in Rouen stating that he had been wounded in recent fighting but hoped to be out soon. He liked the Belgians they were so kind. A box of matches was a penny. Sergeant Hood attended Thomlinson’s C.E. School. 08/05/1915
Leslie Hounam HOUNAM, Leslie L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Rothbury wnd Lance-Corporal Leslie Hounam, 1st 7th N.F., age 24, postman at Rothbury, is the son of Mrs. J.S. Hounam, Prospect House, Rothbury, who has three sons serving their country, one with the St John Ambulance, and another at the front with the 1st 7th Northumberland Fusiliers. Lance-Corporal Leslie Hounam joined the above regiment in 1913, and left for foreign service on April 13th. He was educated at Thomlinson's School Rothbury. This was the same soldier that walked from Morpeth in the snowstorm. 15/05/1915
Hudson John S. HUDSON, John S. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Chevington Drift wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... J. Hudson, ....... 01/05/1915
Hugh Hudspeth Seahouses HUDSPETH, Hugh Pte   Corbridge/
Late Seahouses
kia  
  HUNTER, George Edward Capt. 6th North'd Fus. Alnwick kia Late Mr. G.H. Thompson’s Grandsons Killed.
The two sons of Mr. Edward Hunter (Hunter and Henderson, stock and share-brokers, Newcastle) were on Monday reported missing and believed to be wounded. They are Captain George Edward Hunter and Captain Howard Tomlin Hunter, 6th Northumberland Fusiliers. Captain G.E. Hunter, who is senior captain in the battalion, is a partner in his father’s business, and Captain Howard Hunter is a doctor. Information was officially received in Alnwick on Wednesday morning that Captain George Hunter and Captain Howard were killed in action on April 27th. The bereaved mother is an Alnwick lady, being the only daughter of the late G.H. Thompson, of Alnwick and the deepest sympathy is with her in the sad blow she has sustained.  08/05/1915
  HUNTER, Howard Thomlin Capt. 6th North'd Fus. Alnwick kia [see Hunter, George Edward above] 08/05/1915
  HYNES, John Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private John Hynes, of Alnwick.
Private Jno. Hynes, writing to his friends at Alnwick says - Thursday, April 26th. Just a few lines, hoping you are all well. I am quite well, only I have a very bad wound in my right foot. It was part of a big shell that came flying into our trench that wounded nine and killed four. We had been in the trenches three days and nights, and on Sunday, which is the Germans great day for fighting, they started off with their big guns shelling our trenches from about five in the morning and in the shells they were firing there was an awful quantity of gas which blinded all in the trench. Then the Germans thought they had a picnic, for they came flying over to our trenches, thinking the gas had knocked us all out. But they had “slept in” this time, for we give them the hottest they had had for some time, and they all made it back into their own trenches, I may tell you that only one third of them were lucky to get back. They left about 120 dead and wounded behind. We also got about 385 prisoners. I think I hit one or two. But I got a touch, and had to sit behind a lot of sandbags till things got a bit quiet, and I was told to get out if I could manage, which I did with the kind help of a stretcher bearer, who put me on his back and carried me to hospital, where I am now, and am being well looked after. Dear ones at home do not fret, for I expect to be sent home in the next few days. You can tell all my friends I am asking for them, and tell them I am in good spirits. You can put the same address, but I am a long way from my regiment. Tom Brewis and Charlie Thompson are here wounded. Brewis’s parents live in Tower Lane and Thompson’s in Pottergate New Row. They are getting on well. They are on the “Terriers”. They say Mike Quinn is all right. They have been out only a week. I was asking Brewis what he thought about it. You can tell Mrs. Brewis I was talking to her son. So good night, and good luck to all. Hoping I may soon be with you again.........08/05/1915
John Johnson JOHNSON, John Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private John Johnson,
son of Mr. Richard Johnson, Hotspur Place, Alnwick, has written that he is wounded and in hospital. He is a member of the Alnwick Town Band, and joined the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers when war was declared. 01/05/1915

Private John Johnson.  
Private John Johnson, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers (Territorials) has written a letter to his parents, Mr. and Mrs, Johnson, Hotspur Place, Alnwick. In it Private Johnson says- I am all right now. When we reached ____, we stayed there for about ten hours under canvas, then we had to march to a place six miles away, to get a train, or rather cattle trucks. When we got out we marched to a place with a funny name on the way to ____, where we stayed for the night in barns, and I expect we would not have shifted yet, only the Algerians of French let the Germans through, therefore we got rushed by forced marches right through____. Then we had to go through Ypres - thereby hangs a tail! The fighting was beyond Ypres. Germans started to shell the place. There were shrapnel and “Jack Johnson’s” galore. And I shall never forget it. We thought we should never get through alive. We only lost about a dozen men here, so we got off lucky. The Germans evidently know we were coming through. After various escapes on our way to the trenches we arrived in time to take part in a big attack on the Germans, which I think failed partly. We were the 3rd Reserve, and we had to lie on our stomachs for about six hours awaiting the word to advance. The shells were dropping all around us. There is a lot that I can not tell you on here, but I will at some future date, we did very well that day, for we advanced a long way farther than some of the Regulars. We lost 74 Men (killed and wounded) that day. A day or two afterwards I got my little lot. There was going to be a very big action. I never heard such an awful row in all my life. It simply rained shells. We had to rush between some barbed wire and then extend and lie down, but a lot got knocked down before then by a maxim which was trained on this opening. Well I got through and lie down with the rest. Then we had to advance by short rushes and keep down. After a little, when I was lying prone, I felt something strike me on the back and I shouted to Harry Hall, an Alnwick Painter, that I was hit, for it was giving me great pain. He shouted and said he would help me back to the hospital, but it was not paining me much at that time, and I said I would go through. We advanced again. I managed to keep up with the rest till I got a bullet through the wrist. It was an awful job trying to bandage my hand myself. After that I lay about two or three hours in a ditch because the snipers are always on the look out for any wounded and then would soon pop them off. We went to the field hospital and found it had been blown to pieces, so I had to walk through Ypres again to____, and I got bandaged at the Canadian Hospital, all the other places being full. We could not get away from ____ that night, as they were shelling the only road. I got away safely next day. In the fight there was almost every regiment you could mention, both black and white. I have seen some awful sights, and will never forget them. Nearly all our officers were wounded or killed. 08/05/1915
Knox, E. KNOX, Edward Pte. 7th
North'd Fus?
South Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men -
During the last week the effects of the war have been brought very near to us at Broomhill, since so many Broomhill and Chevington Drift men have been sent to the front. Scarcely a post arrives without news of some of their number being wounded. Private Edward Knox, of South Broomhill, writes to his wife: "After being wounded on Monday, while advancing into action, I arrived in England on Wednesday night, and have been brought to St. Bartholomew's Hospital. A German sniper caught me through the left leg, the bullet going straight through the left leg and also wounding my right leg. The bullet dropped into my stocking. I was also shot in the head, but pleased to tell you I am progressing satisfactorily, being well treated in hospital".........[continues with a list of Broomhill and Chevington men wounded]...01/05//15
  KNOX, Hargrave Pte. 2nd
North'd Fus
Alnwick wnd
&
pow

Private R.C.Knox, of Alnwick,

 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers has received word from his brother, Cpl Hargrave Knox, of the 2nd Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers, who has been missing, that he is a prisoner of war in Germany, and was Wounded on May 8th but is going on all right. 05/06/1915

LAIDLAW, Daniel Ppr. 7th
KOSB
Alnwick wnd Piper Daniel Laidlaw, Alnwick.
Information has been received by Mrs C. Goodman, Wagon Way, Alnwick, that Piper Daniel Laidlaw was wounded at Loos, having been shot in the ankle, and is now lying in Lord Derby's Hospital, Warrington. Piper Laidlaw enlisted into the King's Own Scottish Borderers and with his regiment served for several years in India. On completing his time soldiering he returned to England and for a few years was employed at the co-operative society stores at Alnwick. At the outbreak of the war he rejoined his old Regiment and went through several engagements until being wounded. He is married, and is wife and family are at present resident at Doddington, Wooler. Piper D. Laidlaw has two brothers serving with the colours, Farrier James Laidlaw, Royal Horse Artillery, and Driver George Laidlaw, Royal Engineers, who has been at the front for some months, and before the war broke out was groom with Mr Hutchinson, Bamburgh. 13/11/1915 (Laidlaw, the famous piper of Loos,won the VC for his bravery on the day he was wounded)
Seargent F Laidlaw Rothbury LAIDLAW, F. Sgt. 7th
North'd Fus
Rothbury wnd Sergt. F. Laidlaw, of Rothbury,
of the 1st/7th N.F., has been wounded. His right arm is broken and he has received wounds about the face. He is the brother of Mr Thomas Laidlaw, of The Farm, Cragside, and he has two other brothers serving, viz., Private R. Laidlaw, 39th Batt. Zwick Island Ontario, Canada, and Private Clive Laidlaw, A.S.C. 26/06/1915
  LAMBTON, John

+others
Capt. ? Kirknewton, Wooler wnd

The War has been brought home to us all more forcibly since the news arrived that our local Terriers had gone right into the fighting line in France, taking part in a great battle near Ypres. Fortunately we have not heard of any Wooler men in the casualty list, although the death of Brigadier-General Riddell (who was a native of Wooler) has been received with deep regret by those who are old enough to remember the family when they resided at St, Ninian’s and were extremely popular. We learn that Thos. Wright, a son of Mr B. Wright. Akeld Station, has received a flesh wound and is in Hospital. He joined the Queen Victoria Rifles, London, and has been at the Front for some time. He was in the light at Hill 50, and came out without a scratch, but received a bullet wound in the calf of the leg shortly after. He is now lying at the Red Cross Hospital, Manchester. We also understand Captain John Lambton, son of the Hon. F. W. Lambton, Fenton House, is wounded. Let us hope that both the above will have a speedy recovery. A son of Colonel and Mrs. Anderson, of The Thirling, is reported to be wounded.  01/05/1915

LANDERS, James Pte. K.O.S.B. Longhoughton
or
Lesbury?
dow A Longhoughton Hero.
Private James Landers died of wounds on 20th November (received on 18th) at the Dardanelles. He was one of the first three lads to answer their country's call on the 29th August 1914. Having joined the Royal Army Medical Corps he afterwards transferred and went out to do his bit with a draft from the King's Own Scottish Borderers. He had only sailed from England 2 months ago, the news came as rather a shock and was deeply felt throughout the village. Poor Jimmy was a great favourite amongst us, and everywhere he went he had a cheery word for everybody and looked at the sunnyside of all difficulties. As a member of the village football club he was a good sportsman and put up some splendid fights against his opponents. He was well liked in all the villages around about and at dances he eagerly supplied the violin music, and spent some enjoyable evenings with the rest of our lads who are now doing their share. This is the 2nd of our heroes to lay down their lives for their king and country, and he is greatly missed by all his comrades. 25/12/1915 (Photo published on the 18th states of Lesbury?)
  LEATHER, Gerald Lieut RN   kia The Late Lieutenant Gerald Leather.
In memory of a son, Lieutenant Gerald Leather, R.N., who lost his life when HMS Pathfinder was torpedoed off the Berwickshire coast, Mrs Leather has named a bed in perpetuity in the Seamen's (Dreadnought) Hospital, Greenwich. 4/12/1915
  LEATHER, P.C. du S. Capt. 4th Yorks. R. Middleton Hall wnd Captain P.C. du S. Leather wounded.
Captain P.C. du S. Leather, 4th Yorkshires, who is reported wounded, had association with lawn tennis in Newcastle, for he played in the final of 1888, when the Hon. P. Bowes Lyon won for the third successive year. This final was played under cover in a drill hall, the weather for the last days of the Northumberland Tournament being such as to render the ground unfit for play. Captain Leather is the second son of the late Mr. Frederick J. Leather, Middleton Hall, Northumberland; Leventhorpe Hall, Yorkshire; and The Friary, Tickhill, Yorkshire, and was born 1867. He was formerly a captain in the 5th Northumberland Fusiliers, and afterwards went to Ceylon. Last September he joined his present regiment with the rank he previously held. In 1891 Captain Leather married a daughter of the late Sir James Laing, Eatal Manor, Northumberland. 10/07/1915
  LENNON, James Sgt. 7th North'd Fus Radcliffe wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Sgt. James Lennon, Radcliffe.... 01/05/15
  LIDDLE, Thomas M. Pte 7th North'd Fus Radcliffe wnd Private Thos. Liddle of Radcliffe, Killed.
Official information has been received by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Liddle of 7 Cross Row, East Radcliffe, of the death of their son, Private Thomas M. Liddle of the 7th Batt. N.F., who was killed in action in Flanders on the 31st of May, 1915. Private Liddle was in his 20th year, and previous to his enlistment, was a miner at Radcliffe Colliery. The first intimation of his death was contained in a letter to his parents from his comrade, Private James Luke, also of Radcliffe, who is now at the front. The deepest sympathy with his sorrowing parents is manifested by the community of Radcliffe and Amble. 26/06/1915


Amble Terrier not killed but wounded.
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Liddle, of 7 Cross Row East, Radcliffe, have received information from the Territorial headquarters, York, that their son Private Thomas M. Liddle, who was reported killed in action on May the 31st, is now reported wounded, and admitted to Bevan hospital on June 16th. The news was very gladly received by the parents, and the many friends of a brave lad who had fought for his King and Country. 3/07/191
  LINDSLEY, A. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... A. Lindsley, ....... 01/05/1915
LITTLEFAIR, John Pte.   Rothbury kia Rothbury Youth Killed in Action.
Private John Littlefair son of Mrs Littlefair (Turk's Head Hotel) Rothbury and the late John Littlefair late of Grey Horse Inn, Camperdown, was killed in action in France on April 29, of this year. He was 19 years old. He died as he lived bravely doing his duty. 6/11/1915
  LORD, R. 2/Lieut 2nd North'd Fus   wnd

Second Lieutenant R. Lord missing.

 The following officer, previously reported missing, is now reported wounded and not missing: — Lord, Second Lieutenant, R. , 3rd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, attached 2nd Battalion. 12/06/1915

  LYALL, J. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... J. Lyall, ....... 01/05/1915
Fred Lyons Felton LYONS, Fred Pte. 7th North'd Fus Felton kia Death of Private Fred Lyons of Felton.
Official notice was received on Saturday last by Mr and Mrs Lyons, the Garden House, Morpeth of the death of their son, Fred Lyons, a private in the 7th N.F. The announcement said he was at first posted as missing but now they had definite information of his death. Private Lyons enlisted in August last and was called to the colours in September. His earlier training was at Alnwick and later at Cambois, where he was stationed until the 7th left for the front on April 20th. He seems to have come out of his first engagement unwounded, for on a postcard received from him dated May 3rd he informs his friends that he was quite well. Another postcard dated May 5th reached Felton from Private Lambert and said Fred had been killed, having been shot by a sniper through the back. This news caused sad forebodings for all knew that Fred was well known to the writer of the postcard. Hope was not altogether abandoned, however, until Saturday. His death cast quite a gloom over the village. While at Felton he was employed by the Cooperative Society, and his bright and cheery disposition, with a kind word for everybody, made him a general favourite. During the football season his spare moments were usually devoted to that pastime. His services as goalkeeper were highly appreciated at the Felton Club, and in that capacity he was a familiar figure on the grounds covered by the North Northumberland League. He played occasionally at cricket but football was his strong point. Being the first from Felton to give his life for King and Country he will be long held in remembrance. He was in his 31st year.
The Vicar from the pulpit on Sunday evening said the sympathies of the congregation would go out to deceased’s parents and relatives on this sad occasion. A special holy communion service was held on the following morning in memory of the fallen brave. 22/05/1915
Fred Lundy  LUNDY, Fred  Cpl. 1st North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd/
missing
Corporal Fred Lundy,
 1st Northumberland Fusiliers, husband of Mrs. M. Lundy, Correction House Lane, Alnwick, is reported wounded and missing since the 4th March. His wife has received word to that effect from the War Office; He is the son of the late John Lundy, of Clayport, Alnwick. 15/08/1915
J.S. MacKay Rothbury MacKAY, J.S. L/Cpl.   Rothbury wnd Lance Corporal J.S. Mackay, of Rothbury,
was wounded at Ypres on Monday by shrapnel in right arm and left knee. He is now in hospital at Aldershot and doing well. He is the son of Mr W.G. Mackay, ironmonger, Bridge Street, Rothbury. 12/06/1915
yes MacLAUCHLAN, Peter Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Peter MacLauchlan,
second son of the late Mr. Peter Maclauchlan, had served about 6 years in the D Company of the Northumberland Fusiliers before being called up. He was employed as a miner at Shilbottle Colliery. He is married and his wife and three children are residing in Craster Place, Fenkle Street. On the official post-card he says "I have been admitted into hospital wounded."
Writing to his wife who received the letter on Thursday. Private Maclauchlan, says: "I am not very badly wounded, only shrapnel wound behind the knee. I was wounded on Saturday night. There  was about 20 of us wounded. I will be able to get back amongst our men in a day or two. 01/05/15
T.W. McDougall Belford McDOUGALL, T.W. Pte.   Belford wnd   22/05/1915
  McGOWAN, Dan Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Corpl. Dan McGowan, Amble.... 01/05/15
  McGOWAN, Larry Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. Larry McGowan, Amble.... 01/05/15

Private McGowan, of Amble.

The pluck of the North Country Terriers, even when wounded is very well demonstrated by a letter which has been received at Cambois from Private Lawrence McGowan, 7th Batt. N.F. who belongs to Amble. He says- “I am leaving tonight for England. I am writing this is the trenches. The big guns are going strong. I am wounded but getting on fine. The Germans are getting some stick. I am still as happy as ever”. ...08/05/1915

  MARSHALL, George Pte. 7th North'd Fus Radcliffe wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. George Marshall, Radcliffe.... 01/05/15
James Marshall, Fenwick Steads MARSHALL, James Pte.   Fenwick Steads wnd Belford and District Wounded.
 Sergeant Joseph Purvis, of the 7th, and Private James Marshall, of Fenwick Steads, have informed their friends that they have been wounded, so also has Lance-Corporal Skinner, of the 7th, of Adderstone.
2/ Lt. Roger Marshall Durham Light Infantry MARSHALL, Roger 2/Lt Durham L.I. Annstead, Chathill kia Killed in Action: Late Second Lieut. Roger Marshall of Annstead
Widespread sympathy is felt with the family of Lieut-Colonel Marshall, of Annstead, whose youngest son, Second- Lieut. Roger Marshall, of the Durham Light Infantry, was killed in action on the 20th ult. This was a brave young life given up in the service of his country, and Lieut Marshall's name has thus passed to the great roll of honour. He was a young officer of unmistakable promise His experience as an airman in the army gave him that steadiness of nerve and sans peur which were bound to have been useful to him in his future career, and no doubt in the fighting line won for him the hearts of the Durhams among whom he fought and died. He was of bright and loveable disposition, and a favourite with those amongst whom he moved. His visits to Alnwick and the neighbouring villages won him the high respect of the tradespeople with whom he came into contact.
The late second-Lieut. Roger Marshall was born on the 25th January, 1891. He was a very delicate boy and was a very good athlete, and passed from R.F.A. Special Reserve, and received commission in 2nd Battalion Durham Light Infantry in June 1914. He had previously obtained his aero certificate, and did useful work flying in connection with range finding. He was very reticent about anything he did, but he was entertained at dinner by officers of the Flying Corps and presented by them with the propeller of an aeroplane. He unwillingly abandoned flying to join the infantry. A wounded N.C.O now in hospital, speaks most highly of his conduct through the fighting in which he was killed, summing up by saying, "He was grand" 10/10/14
Mattison A. MATTISON, A. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Private A. Mattison,

 of the 7th N.F. age 24, painter, employed by Messrs, Adam Robertson and son, is the son-in-law of Mr. J. Thain, Grey Place. He joined in September and left for foreign service on the 19th April. His left hand is injured. He is now in Leeds Hospital, He attended the Borough School Alnwick.  08/05/1915

  MERIVALE, Vernon Capt. 7th North'd Fus. Broomhill   Captain V. Merivale,
7th Northumberland Fusiliers, son of Professor Merivale, Broomhill, is reported wounded. 26/06/1915
H. Miles Alnwick MILES, Hugh Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick [kia]

Alnwick Soldier Among the Missing.

The latest list of casualties contends the name of another well known North country athlete. H. Miles, of the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, who has been missing since April 29. And native of Gateshead, Miles as a member of the Gateshead A.S.C., twice swam into second place in the Northumberland and Durham breaststroke championship. He was a member of the St Mary’s Harriers, and when this organisation became defunct he joined the Congers, among whom he was recognised as a powerful and courageous distance runner. Only 25 years of age, he had been married several months, and his relatives trust that anyone who may have any knowledge of this soldier’s whereabouts, or of his fate, will communicate with his parents at 19 Rectory Road, Gateshead. He was married to Miss Victoria Blagburn Chapel Lane, Alnwick daughter of Mrs Blagburn and the late Mr Thomas Blagburn. He was employed as a shoemaker with Mr A. Archibald, Clayport. 12/06/1915 [See BLAGBURN]

  MILLER, Henry J. Pte. 8th North'd Fus. Amble kia Amble Man Killed.
Mr George Miller, of 20 King Edward Street, Amble, has received word from the war office that is only son, Private Henry J. Miller, 8th Northumberland Fusiliers was killed in action at the Dardanelles on August 7th. 27/11/1915
Arthur Mitchell East Fleetham MITCHELL, Arthur Pte. 7th North'd Fus. East Fleetham wnd Private A. Mitchell, of Fleetham Shot in the Arm.
Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell, East Fleetham, Chathill, received news by postcard on Saturday, that their son, Private Arthur Mitchell, has been wounded. In a letter from him since written with his left hand, he says he received his wound on the 16th June (his 20th birthday) by a shrapnel bullet in the right arm while in the first line trenches. He is the only son of Mr. Thomas Mitchell, farmer, East Fleetham, and enlisted at the beginning of Sept for foreign service. He joined the 1st/7th Northumberland Fusiliers at Alnwick, and left Cambois on April the 20th. He has three cousins serving in the same Battalion (the Foremans, Alwinton) Ted, who was with him, has been wounded the second time. Before enlistment he was employed by his father on the farm.
  MITCHIESON, Robt. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Robt. Mitchieson, ....... 01/05/1915
James Moir Chevington Drift MOIR, James Pte. 7th North'd Fus Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Jas. Moir, ....... 01/05/1915
J.W. Mordue Alnwick MORDUE, J.W. Pte.
L/Cpl.
Dmr.
7th North'd Fus Alnwick dow Drummer J.W. Mordue,
 1st /7th N.F., has been seriously wounded. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. G. Mordue, Craster Place, Alnwick, received information this (Friday) morning, from Sister Carnegie, at Boulogne Hospital, that Drummer Mordue had been admitted two nights before the date of the letter, suffering from a gun shot wound in the back, which had fractured a rib and slightly damaged the left lung. The nurse adds, "He is a brave lad, and I am proud that he is a Territorial. He is so patient." He is receiving every possible care and attention. 26/06/1915

Lance-Corporal Drummer J.W. Mordue.
L/Cpl. Drummer J.W. Mordue, 1st 7th N.F. who was reported last week as being wounded and lying in hospital at Boulogne, we are sorry to say has since died. A telegraphic message received on Saturday night by his parents, Mr. and Mrs George Mordue, Craster Place, Alnwick, conveyed to them the unwelcome news that their son died in 13 General Hospital, Boulogne, on June 25th, from wounds. 3/07/1915
Mossman Amble MOSSMAN, R.S. Pte. 7th North'd Fus Amble kia?

Two Amble Brave.

Captain Merivale Reports on Sergeant Mossman.

Sergeant R.S. Mossman, according to a letter from Captain Vernon Merivale, who speaks very highly of him, was last seen on Monday, April 26th. He had apparently been slightly wounded and was making his way to the dressing station. In the ordinary course of events he would have been taken from the dressing station to some hospital. Not having heard of him since, the Captain is afraid he must have been shot on the way back. The Captain describes Sergeant Mossman as being most popular as a man, and as a soldier. His rapid promotion speaks for itself. Sergeant Mossman is the son of Mr Robert Mossman of Wellwood Street, Amble, and grandson of Mr William Scott, of Alnwick. He joined the territorials about 7 years ago. At the outbreak of the war he went to Blyth, to Gosforth and then to Cambois for training, and in April to the front. He got through without a scratch, and had a few days rest out of the trenches. He went back into action on the 26th, and has not been seen again alive. Sergeant Mossman was employed for many years with the Amble Cooperative Society and was well known in Amble. It is very interesting to record that Mr and Mrs Mossman have another two sons fighting for their country. 12/06/1915

Sergeant Mowitt Rothbury Northumberland Fusiliers MOWITT,  Joseph W. L/Sgt. 7th North'd Fus Rothbury wnd Lance-Sergt, Joseph W. Mowitt,
7th. N.F. age 23, a draper with his father, Mr Wm. Mowitt, Rothury, joined about four years ago, and left for foreign service on April 20th. In a letter received from him written by himself in hospital on the 27th ult, he stated he was wounded in his feet by shrapnel at the battle of Ypres.  08/05/1915
  MITCHIESON, Robt. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Robt. Mitchieson, ....... 01/05/1915
G.E. Murray MURRAY, G.E. AB RND Amble   Able Seaman G.E.Murray,
 of Amble, who was wounded at the Dardanelles on May 29th, was a Mason with Mr R.C.Brown, Amble. He joined the Royal Naval Division. 12/06/1915
  NICHOLSON, P. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... P. Nicholson, ....... 01/05/1915
  NICHOLSON, R. Pte. 7th North'd Fus Broomhill wnd

Private R. Nicholson, of Broomhill.

Private R. Nicholson, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, of Broomhill, who has been wounded in France, writing to his friends at Bedlington says: “ We were rushed straight into the biggest battle in the history of mankind- the battle of Ypres. We had heavy losses, although we did some good work. We advanced for two days”.  08/05/1915 [See P. Nicholson above; probably the same man]

Robert Nicholson South Charlton NICHOLSON, Robert Pte. 7th North'd Fus South Charlton
&
Amble
wnd South Charlton and Amble Territorial Killed.
Private Robert Nicholson, of South Charlton of the 7th N.F., was killed in action at Ypres, on the 26th of April. Deceased was 40 years of age and third son of Eleanor Nicholson, late of South Charlton and now of Amble. The deceased lived at Hirst for some time and was also billeted for several weeks at the Horse Shoes Inn Alnwick. He was mobilized in the first week week of October in the 1st line of the 7th and left Cambois on the 20th April. He went into Action on the 23rd and was killed on the 26th at Ypres where there were so many casualties in the Battalion. 10/07/1915
Alfred O'Brien Alnwick O'BRIEN, Patrick Alfred Pte. 2nd North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Alnwick soldier walks about with shrapnel in splintered arm.
Private Patrick Alfred O'Brien, 2nd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, of Ivy Cottage, Turk's Head Yard, Alnwick, is home wounded from the front. He has had some thrilling experiences in action. A lump of shrapnel has been taken out of his shoulder and seven smaller pieces remain in the shoulder and arm. He is in remarkably buoyant spirits, and excellent type of the plucky English soldier. He says: —
"It was at the battle of Ypres when the 2nd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, on the 2nd of February, 1915, went into the trenches. The very 1st day I got struck by shrapnel in the muscle of my arm. Having been put in a place of safety in a dugout, I lay there for two days. After that they removed me to the dressing station, and from there to the field hospital and from there to Boulogne hospital, where I stayed for about 6 hours. Then I was removed to England, where I landed at the 3rd Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, on the 8th of February. On the 9th I went under an operation a piece of shrapnel was very successfully removed out from under my collarbone; the weight is two ounces, and it is two inches long I am very pleased to say that the doctors and nurses of the 3rd Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, were very good to me and took rather a great interest in my case. The ladies of Sheffield treat the wounded soldiers very kindly, and I wish them all a very best of luck. I joined the Army in 1907, and was stationed at Newcastle upon Tyne. After I had passed the doctor, I was sent to Aldershot on account of my being in the Alnwick Militia in the years 1905-1906-1907. The same year I went into the line Battalion — the 2nd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers at Aldershot. I was about 3 months in Aldershot. The Battalion shifted to the Citadel Barracks, Dover. I was not long there. I was drafted out to India on the 5th of November, 1908. My very first station was on the North-West Frontier, Peshawar, and I was very pleased with the station indeed, but it was rather hot for me. There are some beautiful sights to see out in India. The 1st Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers moved from Peshawar to Rawal Pindi in the year 1909. It was the very best station in India. I was in Rawal Pindi for close on 3 years, when it was too hot on the planes the Battalion used to go up to the hills to a place called Garrial. That is only two miles and a half from Murrie. I went there one day to see a football match. The very same day, after eating rather a lot of fruit, I got enteric fever. I got over that and went to the Delhi Durbar, 1911 it was a magnificent sight. The Battalion next went to be stationed at Dolalty and Bombay, where we stayed about 6 months. The next station was Mhow, it was very hot there indeed. We used to do drills before breakfast, and after that we hardly did anything on account of the heat. The 1st Battalion came to England. I stayed in India, and got transferred to the 2nd Northumberland Fusiliers, which Battalion came from Sheffield to Ambala and Subaltlin [?] I had just come over from India to England (22nd December, 1914). I was at Winchester. I came home for 5 days leave before I went out to the front. 19/06/1915
  OGDEN, E.W.P. Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Berwick wnd Wounded Berwick men of 7th N.F.
Corporal E.W.P. Ogden, of Berwick, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, has been wounded in the head. He is a good all round sportsman, and well known in the Border district as a cricketer and hockey player. He has been in the Territorials for two years. Private John Heslop, 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, who is wounded, is a clerk in the Border Brewery Company at Berwick. He has a brother and a cousin serving in the same regiment. 26/06/1915
  OLIVER, James Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick Moor wnd

Private James R. Oliver,

 enlisted into the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers in January, and went to the front on April 20th. In an engagement on April 26th he was wounded in the leg by a bullet, and is now in a convalescent home in Birmingham. He is a son of the late Mr James Oliver, Stoup Hill, Alnwick Moor. 29/05/1915

John Oliver OLIVER, John Pte.   Stamford
Crossing
wnd

Private John Oliver, of Stamford Crossing,

7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, son of Mr James Oliver, platelayer, who went out to the front on April 20th, has been wounded by a bullet which is embedded in his thigh. He was in the desperate fighting near Ypres amongst his comrade in the 7th, and he was only 2 days in the trenches when he was hit. He lay for an hour and a half, and then managed to struggle over a mile, when he was picked up by a stretcher bearer. He was taken to a field hospital and after his wounds were dressed he was taken to the Duchess of Sutherland’s Hospital at Dunkirk. Her Grace herself wrote the first letter on his behalf to his parents at Stamford Crossing, Rennington. When the Germans began to shell Dunkirk the wounded were removed and he was taken with others to the Army Nursing Home, Folkestone, where he now lies. He has gone through an operation, but the bullet has not been extracted. Private Oliver was employed at Little Mill Quarry and went to Rennington School. 29/05/1915

  OLIVER, Thomas. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Thos. Oliver, ....... 01/05/1915
  OWENS, W L/Cpl 7th North'd Fus. Radcliffe wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Lance-Corpl. W. Owens, (5th N.F.), Radcliffe.... 01/05/15
Walter Owens  OWENS, Walter      Amble ?     same as above? 
PARK, Thomas Pte 8th
S.L.I
Radcliffe wnd
&
msg
Private Thomas Park Wounded and Missing.
Private Thomas Park, 15869, 8th Battalion Somerset Light Infantry, has been wounded and missing since September 26th. He took part in the battle in the Loos Sector. His sister, Mrs J. Dunn, Alnwick Moor, will be glad of any information concerning him. 13/11/1915

Radcliffe Soldier Wounded and Missing.
Mr Thomas Park, 4 Leslie Row, Radcliffe Colliery, Acklington, has been notified by the war office that his son, Private Thomas Park, 15869 Somerset Light Infantry has been wounded and missing since September 25th. He is 19 years of age and lately lived at the Wynd, Amble. 11/12/1915
E. Patterson Sea Houses PATTERSON, E Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Sea Houses msg Private E.Patterson, Sea Houses,
 of the 7th N.F., who has been officially reported missing since 26th April, is a native of Sea Houses. If any of his companions happened have seen or heard anything of him they might communicate with his parents, who reside in Sea Houses. Private Patterson was well known locally as a footballer. He captained the North Sunderland eleven in its latter days and later played for Belford. 19/06/1915
  PATTERSON, George Cpl.   Berwick kia Corporal George Patterson,
of Berwick, has been killed in action. Whilst at Blyth, in April last, he risked his life to save a comrade from drowning. 19/06/1915
  PATTERSON, Thomas Pte. Cold. Gds Alnmouth wnd Alnmouth Man Wounded in Aisne Fight.

Private Thomas Patterson, Coldstream Guards, a son of Mr. John Patterson of Wooden Crossing, Alnmouth Station is at present living in the Northern Military Hospital in Lincolnshire, incapacitated by a wound caused by a shrapnel shell in an engagement on the Aisne.

When War was declared he was called up, and went with the first drift of his regiment to France, and went through the fighting in which the Coldstreams were engaged until he received his wound.

When interviewed in hospital he was very cheerful, and did not seem to worry about his nasty shell wound. “I got it” he said, “on a Friday I was lying in the trenches and they started with lyddite shell. We had got very near to them then. At any rate shells were dropping 200 yards ahead of us. Four or five shells burst practically together one just over our heads, and from that one I got my little lot. We were lying full length with our heads and bodies under cover and our legs out.”

  “The enemy’s big difficulty was finding our artillery. Their aeroplanes have been cruising about but our guns were hidden and they could not locate them.  They made a few night attacks and we always found a heap of their dead in the morning. In our last advance we passed through a village just evacuated by the Germans and the streets were stewn with bottles.”

    Mr. John Patterson has another son John Wesley Patterson in the Coldstream Guards, who is also engaged at the front. Both were Reservists of the regiment and when called up were serving on the constabulary. Tom at Scotswood and John Wesley at Whitley Bay. A third son, Ralph, is with the Territorials (7th Northumberland Fusiliers) at Gosforth Park. 10/10/14

Pigg J. C. PIGG, J.C. Sgt. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Sergeant  J.C. Pigg,

 7th N.F., age 21, plumber, employed by Messrs. Wilkin and Co., is the son of Mr. C. Pigg, ex-policeman, Walkergate, Alnwick. He joined the above regiment three years ago and left foreign service on April 20th. He was shot in the arm, and is now being treated in Hospital at Dublin. He attended the Duke’s School, Alnwick.

Christopher Plaice Radcliffe PLAICE, Christopher Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Radcliffe wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. Christopher Plaice, Radcliffe.... 01/05/15
  PRINGLE, R. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Kyloe wnd Private R. Pringle,
7th N.F., of Kyloe is wounded 08/05/1915
Alex Purvis Alnwick PURVIS, Alex Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Alex Purvis, 7th N.F.,
wounded in the hand 22/05/1915
Joseph Purvis, Fenwick PURVIS, Jos. Sgt. 7th North'd Fus. Fenwick Steads? wnd Belford and District Wounded.
Sergeant Joseph Purvis, of the 7th, and Private James Marshall, of Fenwick Steads, have informed their friends that they have been wounded, so also has Lance-Corporal Skinner, of the 7th, of Adderstone.
M. Quinn  QUINN, Michael L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Lance-Corporal Michael Quinn,
 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, son in law of Mr. John Appleby, tailor, Alnwick, was wounded, and is now in a hospital in England.15/05/1915
  REDMAN, A. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... A. Redman, ....... 01/05/1915
  REDPATH, Fred Pte. 8th North'd Fus Wooler wnd Wooler Man Wounded.
Mr John Redpath, carrier, Wooler, has been informed that his 4th son, Private Fred Redpath, 8th Northumberland Fusiliers, has been wounded in the right hip and foot at the Dardanelles. He is now in the hospital at Malta and getting along all right. 6/11/1915
  RITCHIE, Wilfrid Pte. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick? wnd

Private Wilfrid Ritchie,

7th N.F.. is wounded in a hospital in Boulogne, suffering from a shot wound through the thigh. He is reported to be going on very favourably. He was employed in the firm Messrs. Hardy Brothers, fishing rod and tackle manufacturers. 08/05/1915

  RIDDELL, J.F. Brig-Gen 149th Infantry Brigade Lesbury kia Brigadier-General J.F. Riddell
An official message was received at Lesbury House, on Thursday morning conveying the information that Brigadier-General J.F. Riddell had been killed in action in France. Brigadier-General Riddell began his military career in the 2nd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers as a subaltern, and graduated to higher ranks. He attained the position of Major when transferred to the 3rd Battalion, and eventually retired with the rank of Colonel. Subsequently he was appointed Brigadier-General of the Northumberland Infantry Brigade, succeeding Brigadier-General W.E. Sturges. Brigadier-General Riddell married Miss Scott, daughter of the late Sir Henry Hall Scott, of Hipsburn and Alnham, who played a noble part in the South African War by being instrumental in raising a troop of Yeomanry Cavalry in the county. General Riddell was probably killed, therefore, in the first engagement into which the brigade entered.
He was well known in North Northumberland and had a long service with the "Fighting Fifth." He joined the regiment in 1880 and served in the Hazara Expedition 1888, for which he received the medal and clasp; and also in the South African War, from 1900 to 1902. He held the Queen's medal and three clasps for the latter campaign.
A keen soldier and strict disciplinarian, he worked hard to advance the efficiency of the Territorials whom he has commanded for the past four years and of whom he was in charge when he met his death. For some time he was in command of the 3rd Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers, which was disbanded several years ago, and whose colours now hang in St. Nicholas' Cathedral, Newcastle.
Much sympathy will be felt with Mrs. Riddell in the great loss she has sustained by the death of her husband. Mrs. Riddell has taken a close sympathetic interest in the Territorial Brigade, and has done much to secure comforts for its active members on active service.  01/05/15

How Brigadier- General Riddell Died

 Lieutenant-Colonel G.R.B. Spain, commanding the first line 6th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, writing from somewhere in Belgium, under date 28th April, to Lieut-Colonel Kayll, commanding second line 6th Battalion, with reference to the operations in which this battalion along with the rest of the Northumberland Brigade (i.e. 4th, 5th and 7th) were engaged on the 27th April, speaking of a certain phase says-

“Up the rise we began to meet machine guns, bullets in streams, rifle bullets from every angle, and the the high explosive coalboxes or Jack Johnsons.” The corps still pushed forward losing terribly, but behaving in a way that has been admired by all who saw the fight. The 7th N.F. joined us and with great dash, surged up to the outskirts of the village, where the ground was covered with dead Germans weeks old. Here we were pinned to the ground absolutely by the intense fire.

After a description of the terrible time through which the Brigade then passed, Colonel Spain refers to the death of the Brigadier saying- “Brigadier-General Riddell came up the road past me, and I explained the situation to him. He then ran forward, leaving me and saying, “Well done the 6th, Push forward men”, and instantly fell shot through the head”.

There is one further item with reference to the same occasion, in Colonel Spain’s letter, which is permissible to publish and of which the Northumberlands may be proud. He says- General Hull, commanding the 1st Canadian Division published the following order to his command next day- “Headquarters Commander wishes to congratulate the Northumberland Infantry Brigade on the excellent manner in which they carried out the attack on” —


V.C. Roberts  ROBERTS, V.C. Sgt. 7th North'd Fus. Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Sergeant V.C. Roberts, Amble.... 01/05/15

Sergeant V.C. Roberts,
7th Batt. N.F., is in the 1st Scottish General Hospital, Aberdeen, and in a letter to Alnwick, graphically describes the battle in which the local Territorials were engaged. 08/05/1915

Tom Robertson ROBERTSON, Tom 2/Lieut Royal Fusiliers Alnwick wnd

Lieutenants Tom Robertson and J. Parker Simpson Wounded.

Official information was received on Saturday by his relatives in Alnwick at 2nd Lieutenant T. Robertson, Royal Fusiliers, was missing since the 25th May. In a telegraphic message received by them the next day (Sunday) it was stated that 2nd Lieutenant T. Robertson, previously reported as missing was wounded and missing. Second Lieutenant Thomas Robertson is a younger son of Mr William Robertson, of Alnwick and Alnmouth and who previous to the disbandment of the 2nd Northumberland (Percy) Volunteer Artillery held the rank of Major. A telegraphic message was also received on Friday morning last week by Mrs J.P. Simpson Ravensmede, that her younger son, 2nd Lieutenant J. Parker N. Simpson, of the 3rd Battalion Royal Fusiliers, had been wounded in action. Both he and 2nd Lt T Robertson enlisted in the Public Schools administration of the Army, and subsequently they both took Subaltern commissions in the 5th Royal Fusiliers at Dover, they were then sent out to the front with a draft of their Battalion. 05/06/1915

  ROBINSON, George Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Alnwick Fusilier Wounded.
News has been received by Mr William Robinson, Queen Street Alnwick, that  his son Private George Robinson has been wounded in a recent battle in France. He was in the employment of Messrs. Adam Robertson and Son, as a painter, and when the war broke out he enlisted into the 7th Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers (1st Line). His younger brother, Private Edward Robinson has come across the Atlantic this week with the 2nd contingent of the Canadian Mounted Field Corps, to take his part in the war. Prior to emigrating to Canada, the young soldier was employed at Messrs. Hardy Bros. fishing rod and tackle Manufactory, Alnwick.  05/06/1915
Robson, C.R. ROBSON, C.R. Pte 7th North'd Fus. Glanton wnd

Private C.R. Robson,

7th Northumberland Fusiliers, son of Mr. Robson, insurance agent, Glanton. Wounded in the legs and is in Hospital. 08/05/1915


Private Chas. Robson,
 of Glanton, 7th N.F., has written to his parents, Mr. and Mrs T. Robinson, Glanton. He states he is still alive, and thanks God he got off with only being slightly wounded."We have have been giving the Germans some stick lately. Since we started our first battle last week we were taken straight out into the firing line in the hottest engagement that has been fought since the war began. You will guess where it took place by the papers. It was on Tuesday night when I got wounded in the left hip with a bullet, but I will soon be all right again. I have been in three different hospitals on my way down country from the firing line, just staying in each for a few hours to have my wound dressed. You will see by address that I am now at the Convalescent Camp at Boulogne, where wounded soldiers get a rest and plenty recreation for a week or two until we get our health and strength again. So you will see there is not much for you to fret about, as I am now in safety and will soon be home once more. I am keeping all right. A lot of our lads were wounded" Mr. and Mrs. T. Robson have three sons with the colours. 08/05/1915
  RODDAM, Robert Collingwood Capt. 1st North'd Fus. Roddam kia Captain Roddam Killed.
Captain Robert Collingwood Roddam is announced to have been killed in action in Flanders on June 16th. He was the only son of Lieut-Colonel and Mrs. Roddam, of Roddam, Northumberland. He was attached to the 3rd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, and went out to the front to the 1st Battalion in December last, and was made a temporary Captain in command of a company. He was promoted Captain in the 3rd Battalion on February 25th, and was recommended for the Military Cross by his commanding officer Colonel Yatman.
Lieut R.C.H. Roddam (Special Reserve), was awarded the Military Cross. 26/06/1915
  SHANKS, John E. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Amble wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. John E. Shanks, Amble.... 01/05/15
J.P.N. Simpson SIMPSON, J. Parker N. 2/Lieut Royal Fusiliers Alnwick wnd Lieutenants Tom Robertson and J. Parker Simpson Wounded...
[see ROBERTSON, Tom, 2nd Lieut. ]
  SKELTON, Robert Pte.   Chevington Drift kia Chevington Drift Man's Death.
Mrs Skelton, 43 Simonside Terrace, Chevington Drift, has received intimation that her husband, Private Robert Skelton, was killed in action in France, on June 19th. 10/07/1915
Skinner SKINNER, J.E. L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus. Lesbury/Belford wnd

Lesbury Wounded.  Lance-Corpl, J.E. Skinner,

of the 7th N.F., age 26, gardener with Mrs Watson, of Adderstone Hall, Belford, is the son of Mrs. Skinner, Lesbury. He joined the above regiment in September and left for foreign service on April 18th. A field card has been received saying he is wounded. He attended Lesbury School, and was a member of the Alnwick Castle Lodge of Oddfellows. He has a brother in the 4th Tyneside Scottish.  08/05/1915


Lance-Corporal J. Skinner,
 of Lesbury, referred to in an earlier column, has written to his mother, that his right arm is broken and left leg wounded. He wrote with his left hand from Woburn Bedfordshire. 08/05/1915
  SMAIL, F.W. Lieut. 7th North'd Fus. Berwick wnd Local Officer Wounded. Lieutenant F.W. Smail.
Mr. H.R. Smail, proprietor of the "Berwick Advertiser," received word by telegram on Wednesday evening that his second son, Lieut. F.W. Smail had been wounded on Monday, but the nature of the wound is not stated.
Lieut. Smail was educated at Berwick Grammar School and Loretto School, Musselburgh, and afterwards was a student farmer. A year or two ago he entered the tenancy of Linton Burnfoot Farm, Kelso.
A year before the outbreak of war he was a trooper in the Lothians and Border Horse, and from that regiment he transferred to the 7th N.F. as second Lieutenant. He was keen and enthusiastic in the discharge of his duties and before the 7th left for the front he was promoted first lieutenant. His eldest brother Captain H.R. Smail, is in the same regiment.
A letter received since, states that Lieut. Smail was caught by a sniper while in the trenches at night. The bullet struck him in the back of the head, and was carried from the trench unconscious. The wound is described as serious. 3/07/1915

Lieutenant Frank Smail's Death.
Lieutenant Frank W. Smail, has died in London from wounds received in action at the end of June. He was the second son of Mr Henry Richardson Smail, proprietor of the Berwick Advertiser. He went to France in April last, and, along with his elder brother, H.R. Smail, of the same Battalion, pass through the gallant advance on April 25th and the following day, when the casualties were so numerous. 4/12/1915
  SMAILS, William Watson Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Shilbottle kia Private W.W. Smails, Shilbottle Killed in Action.
Official information has been received by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Smails of Shilbottle that their youngest son, Private William Watson Smails had been killed in action near Ypres. Soon after war was declared, Private Smails enlisted in the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (Territorials) and went to the front with the battalion on April 20th. Prior to joining the colours he assisted his father, who was a carting contractor at Shilbottle.
Lance-Corporal Michael Quin, who is at present at home in Clayport, Alnwick, wounded, told our representative that he had seen Private Smails lying dead on the field. "It was on Sunday morning April 25th" the Lance Corporal said, "I was going towards a dug-out when a private said 'Quinn, here's a fellow killed.' We went to the dug-out and found it was William Smails of Shilbottle, he had been struck in the chest by shrapnel. We could not be of any use, so we covered his face with his .... and continued our advance. 22/05/1915
Smiles John  SMILES, John Pte 1/8th Durh. L.I. Alnwick wnd

Private John Smiles,

1/8th Durham L.I. age 20, a student at Bede College, Durham, joined the regiment on September, 1913, and left for foreign service on 19th April 1915. Police Constable Wm. Smiles and Mrs. Smiles, his parents, Alnwick, received information that their son had been admitted into the general hospital at Rouen on the 29th April, seriously wounded by a gun shot in the leg which had necessitated amputation. Private Smiles was educated at the Duke’s School.

A letter received by his parents on Thursday has conveyed to them the very sad news that Private John Smile’s left leg has been amputated at the knee. He is also wounded in the right thigh and ankle. Private Smiles was some miles distant from the firing line when a shrapnel shell burst almost at his feet and inflicted the  injuries. 08/05/1915

George Snowball Broomhill SNOWBALL, G.E. Pte 7th North'd Fus Broomhill? wnd Wounded Local Men -
.....Private G.E. Snowball, in a letter to his parents, says he is in hospital with his right hand forefinger shot off.....01/05//15
  SNOWBALL, Pte Durham
Light
Infantry
Acklington wnd

Local Soldier at the Front.

Acklington man’s story of the fighting on the Aisne.

Private Snowball, Acklington, has recently returned from the front, having received two severe wounds in the engagement at the Aisne.  He enlisted in the Durham Light Infantry eleven years ago, and was on the reserve when called up at the beginning of the war. He was at the time employed as a porter at Acklington railway station on the North Eastern Railway, and resided with Mr T. Steel in the village, where he is now, after being discharged from the military hospital at Stobhill, Glasgow.

In an interview, he told how we went out with his regiment at beginning of August to France. They had two marches of 30 miles and one of 28 miles, and went direct into the trenches at Aisne. They had not been in the trenches for more than half an hour before firing from the enemy opened, and was kept up incessantly, with the results that his battalion suffered severe loss. The trenches were filled with water up to their waists, and the a had a most distressing time for the got little or nothing to eat. There were hundreds of dead soldiers. They could not get out to this bury them, for every attempt that was made they were fired upon by the enemy, and had to retire again under cover. He (Private Snowball) received a bullet from a Maxim gun which penetrated right through his left wrist, injuring the bone in its passage. He was subsequently shot in the leg by a bullet from shrapnel shell, from the effects of which he was rendered unconscious for 24 hours. For 3 days and nights he rode in a railway train to the base, and his wounds were not dressed till he arrived there. Private Snowball states that the English soldiers were well treated in France by the French people.  11/1914

John Snowdon Chevington Drift SNOWDON, John Pte. 7th North'd Fus Chevington Drift dow Private T. Snowdon of Chevington Drift, Killed.
Private Snowdon has died of wounds. He was serving with the 7th N.F. Everyone knew him as a particularly fine lad. He always placed his own wants second to those of others. If he could make others happy he was satisfied. He is now numbered with the great many who have given their all, their life, for the sake of others.
The following letter has been received by Mr. Snowdon, the father:-
"Dear Mr. Snowdon, - I regret to inform you that your son, No 2443, Private T. Snowdon, died from wounds received on the early morning of June 24th. He was shot through the head and died two hours afterwards. He never regained consciousness, and passed peacefully away. Every attention possible was given him. I always found him a quiet and respectful soldier, and greatly deplore his loss. His comrades and I unite in heartfelt sympathy for you and your family. - Yours sincerely Samuel T. Donkin. 10/07/1915 [initial as shown in text is "T"]
William Stephens Alnwick STEPHENS, William Pte. Gordon
Highlanders
Alnwick wnd Private William Stephens.
A letter dated the 4th the June, and signed "Alexander, Captain, Castle barracks, Aberdeen, " has been received by Mrs Stephens, Clayport, Alnwick. It reports that her son Private William Stephens, has been severely gassed by German bombs and hand grenades. Owing to the effect of gas he is admitted to hospital, and will be probably be on his way to England. 12/06/1915
John Stephenson STEVENSON, J. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill/
Chevington Drift
wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... J. Stevenson (painter), ....... 01/05/1915 [Spelling Stevenson v Stephenson]
H. Stewart Shilbottle STEWART, H. Pte. 7th North'd
Fus
Shilbottle wnd

Lance Corporal H. Stewart,

 of Shilbottle, 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, was wounded last week, and is in 4th General Hospital, France. He is a son of Mr Storey Stewart, of Shilbottle, and was employed at the Colliery. He went to Shilbottle School. He joined the territorials some months before the war. He was a member of the Shilbottle Boy Scouts under Mr F. Stone, and was on the football team. He states he is not seriously wounded. 29/05/1915

J.B.Stewart Alnwick STEWART, J. Pte. 7th North'd
Fus
Alnwick wnd Private J. Stewart,
1st/7th Northumberland Fusiliers, has returned to Alnwick after being wounded in action. He came to Alnwick some years ago from Forfar, his native place, and was employed as a gardener at the Alnwick Castle Gardens, Soon after war was declared he enlisted into the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers (Territorials) and went out with the battalion into the fighting line on April 20th. He was wounded on the 27th in the Battle at Hill 60 and was treated in hospitals at Rouen and Glasgow from which he was discharged and is now taking his part amongst other wounded soldiers in the marches out of the 3rd/7th Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers at Alnwick 03/07/1915 [same as below?]
  STEWART, J.B. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Alnwick wnd

Private J.B. Stewart,

Private G. Lewis, late of Alnwick Castle Gardens, has received a postcard from Private J.B. Stewart, of the 7th Batt. N.F. also late of Alnwick Castle Gardens, saying he is wounded in hospital, and hopes to be discharged soon.  08/05/1915

John T. Stewart Radcliffe STEWART, John T. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Radcliffe wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. John T. Stewart, Radcliffe.... 01/05/15

Private Stewart of Radcliffe and the Snipers.

An interesting letter from Private J.T. Stewart (Radcliffe), 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, who was wounded at the front, has been received by his parents at Radcliffe Colliery. Private Stewart describes leaving Blyth and a voyage and journey to the region where gun firing was first heard. When Private Stewart and his company were on the lookout an Uhlan patrol of 12 men went past and they never saw them come back again. He had been on duty all night and was consequently very tired in the morning. In the long march which followed they passed some fine places amongst which was a town called Poperinghe, which the Germans were engaged in shelling and which was in flames; so they had a touch of war there. He had to run through the town and along a road, being shelled all the time. It was then dark and raining very heavily and they were put into some fields, where they lay down for four hours. When they got onto the road again they thought they were getting near the trenches, for they could hear rifle firing. They passed over into Belgium and saw some fine buildings which had been devastated by the Germans. The Germans had done some awful things here. When you are passing the Belgians they give the Britishers many things, and shouted “Good English.” Night fell, finding them still on the march, but at daybreak they came within sight of the trenches. They marched as near as possible to them and had some tea in a wood. Some 20 of them were on the lookout. There were some German snipers about and the bullets were coming very near their heads. But the boys got a rest and at night, says Private Stewart, we were marched into the trenches — that was Friday. We stayed in the trenches all night, and in the morning advanced a little further, the Canadians having driven the enemy a good way back. At midnight however the Canadians retired and we took their places. We were then in the hottest of the battle, and many lay on all sides dead. On the Saturday we got plenty of fighting at night. We could see Ypres on fire. We got the order to cease fire, in order to carry the dead out of the trenches. The boys brought down an aeroplane and were mighty  pleased with that bit of work. Some of the Germans wear khaki and have just old clothes. They come out and shout for us to come up; but the British officers are too knowing for them. The “Jack Johnsons” are awful, then knock the place to pieces. We saw a bayonet charge by the Canadians which took 300 men and 30 officers. On Monday it rained all day we were an awful sight with mud, and the battle went on as hard as ever. We lay down in the trenches but the Germans had got some awful gas fumes. They throw them in the air, and the wind blew them on to our men. Once anyone got a dose he was done for. There has been a lot of Canadians knocked out with this awful stuff. At night we heard that the French had taken to trenches…[continues]... 22/5/1915

  STRAUGHAN, C. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd

Private C. Straughan, of Alnwick,

7th Northumberland Fusiliers, age 21, reel maker, was employed by Messrs, Hardy Bros, Alnwick. Mrs. Straughan, his mother resides at 8. Howick Street, Alnwick. He joined the 7th when war was declared, and left for foreign service on April 20th.  A card from the Red Cross Society states that he is lying wounded in the Scottish Hospital, Aberdeen. 08/05/15

George Straughan Longframlington STRAUGHAN, G. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Longframlington kia Longframlington Territorial Killed.
Private George Straughan, 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers died in France, of wounds by shrapnel on June 19th. He was the youngest son of Mr. Robert and the late Annie Straughan, Longframlington, and was 23 years of age. He enlisted into the 7th N.F. two years prior to the declaration of war, and went off to France with his battalion on April 20th. Previous to the war he worked at West Sleekburn Colliery. 3/07/1915
Straughan_g_w STRAUGHAN, G. W. Dmr. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Drummer Straughan, Alnwick, Shelled on Stretcher.
Drummer G.W. Straughan, of the 7th, writing this week from hospital at Aberdeen, to his mother at 8 Howick Street, Alnwick, describes the journey of the battalion from Cambois to the fighting line. He tells how they travelled to France in cattle trucks. (44 in a truck) and slept in a hayloft and all sorts of places. He proceeds:-After a few more similar marches, we passed through Ypres on the night of Saturday, April 24th, while the town was being shelled by the Germans, and that was the first time we were actually under fire, and it was quite a new experience to most of us. I thought we would all have been blown to pieces, but our Company was lucky enough to escape with several wounded. There were some of the prettiest buildings I have ever seen, either with big holes in them or else one mass of flames. We lay in an open field for the remainder of that night while it rained, the whole time nearly, and in the early hours of Sunday morning we moved to the trenches, and made an attack on the enemy. We got relieved that night by some other regiment, so we retired and dug ourselves in behind our trenches and snatched a few hours well earned sleep. After two o'clock the following afternoon we got the order to move off again, as the Germans were making a big attack on St. Julien, and our Brigade had to make a counter attack. We moved off in artillery formation, and then got the order to extend and advance in short rushes. I was just getting up to rush forward when I got a bullet through my left thigh, from a sniper I think, so I had no other alternative but to lie still and wait my chance to crawl into a trench which I had spotted a few yards behind me. In the meantime I took my kit off and used it as cover, and it was just as well that I did, as at least two bullets entered it while I was lying there. I managed to scramble into the trench and attract the doctor's attention, and he came and dressed the wound for me which was bleeding awfully. There were several wounded in the trench, and the stretcher bearers came a few hours after and put us on stretchers, but were unable to get us away that night owing to the heavy fire they were under, so we had to stay overnight, and they got us away next morning to the dressing station, and then into a motor convoy, bound for the hospital not far from Ypres. Well we had not been in this particular hospital two hours before we were shelled out of it. They were carrying me across a field on a stretcher when a shell passed over our heads and burst just about 10 yards beyond us. I thought we were all done for. It was a near thing. We got put on to the hospital train, and after a long and tedious railway journey we were put on hospital ship and arrived in England. I cannot finish letter without mentioning the good work the red cross nurses are doing and also the R.A.M.C. They deserve every credit for it.
15/05/1915
  STRAUGHAN, William Tpr. North'd
Hussars
Yeomanry
Shilbottle wnd

Shilbottle Trooper’s Letters.

William Straughan, of Shilbottle who is now in an English hospital, with bullet wounds in both legs, gives a sketch of the movements of the Yeomanry Hussars, in a letter to the vicar. He writes: —

“We had rather a rough time of it out there. Constantly on the move. We were at such a number of places, I could not remember them. So the main places were Ghent, Ostend, and Ypres and many more. Ypres was our last big place I was at. As a sample: we were billeted two nights there, and one night we had got our horses all fastened up for the night, and we got into our billets and were busy getting tea, when we got the order to move. So we had to saddle up and travel to seek another billet, which we found about 5 miles away. Then, through the day when we were out amongst the enemy our transport got shelled by the Germans and had to move. When we came back to the same place at night to billet we did not know our transport had moved, and we had just got into the field, with our horses, when the shells began dropping right beside us. So we got orders to get a move on at once, and so we shifted our billet back to Ypres again for the night. We have been always on the move since, round about.” 11/1914

W. Straughan  STRAUGHAN, W.      Alnmouth    
  TAIT, E. Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Amble kia Private E. Tait of Amble,
7th Northumberland Fusiliers, has been killed 10/07/1915
George Tait, Warenford TAIT, George Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Warenford   Two Warenford Brothers.
Private George Tait and Private Robert Tait, sons of Mr, Andrew Tait, joiner, Warenford, have both been wounded, the former in the leg and the latter a scalp wound. Robert states he is going on favourably. Both are on the 7th Battalion N.F. George Blackhall of the 7th, a son of Mr. Blackhall, shoemaker, Warenford, is also wounded. 08/05/1915
James Tait Chevington Drift TAIT, James Pte.   Chevington
 Drift
  Private James Tait, No. 1457, No. 4 Coy., No 15 Platoon, 1/7th Northumberland Fusiliers, has been missing since April 26th, 1915, after the battle of Ypres. Any tidings from any comrade will be thankfully received by his parents Mr. and Mrs. R. Tait residing at No. 28 Hedgehope Terrace, East Chevington Drift. Acklington. (pic) 10/07/1915
Robert Tait Warenford TAIT, Robert Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Warenford   See Tait, George, Warenford.
Thomas H Tait Chevington Drift TAIT, Thomas H. Pte. 7th North'd Fus Chevington Drift wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... T. Tait, ....... 01/05/1915
William Tait Chevington Drift TAIT, Willie Pte.   Chevington Drift    
Matthew Tate TATE, Matthew  Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Private Matthew Tate,
 7th N.F., son of ex-P.C. Tate, St. Michael's Lane, Alnwick, was shot through the elbow and is now lying in a hospital in Birmingham. 15/08/1915
Taylor, G. TAYLOR, George S. Dmr. 7th North'd Fus. Alnwick wnd Drummer George S. Taylor,
  7th N.F. age 24, reel maker employed by Messrs. Hardy, is the son of Mr. William Taylor, Bondgate Alnwick. He joined the above regiment in August and left for foreign service on April 20th. He is wounded in the chest, the bullet grazing his ….[left or right?]  lung after striking a scout’s knife which he carried in his right hand pocket. “The bullet striking the knife was the means of saving my life. I took off my equipment and proceed to the field hospital two miles distant. I was transferred to a hospital in Boulogne and afterwards to Monkwearmouth and Southwick hospital. I saw Philip Wood struck by a shrapnel fragment” drummer Taylor attended the National School Alnwick.  08/05/1915 [see Matthew M. Taylor]
TAYLOR, John Pte.   Brotherwick kia Brotherwick Soldier Killed.
News has been received that Private John Taylor of Brotherwick, Warkworth was killed in action in France on December 4th. He was employed on the North Eastern Railways as a shunter at New Bridge Street. 18/12/1915
  TAYLOR, Matthew W. L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus? Alnwick account

Lance-Corpl. Matthew W. Taylor,

writing to Mr. and Mrs. W. Taylor, Bondgate Alnwick, says- “I am writing from a rest camp, I have been in the front firing line for five days and took part in the great reinforcement advance. Words cannot describe the scenes, I have had some narrow escapes, but got off without injury. One day I was under fire of two machine guns, and one afternoon under the fire of snipers not less than four times in the open country. One of our chaps got wounded about four hundred yards from our trenches. I volunteered to help carry him back along with the help of a stretcher bearer of the 5th Yorks. How we got back I know not, for their shells were busting all around us, whilst the snipers spat there wicked bullets all over. But we hung on to the improvised stretcher and at last we got back with our wounded friend. I was over the same country shortly after looking for a fallen aeroplane. I am on the machine guns, having got parted from my battalion.”

In a subsequent message, Lance-Corporal Taylor says “ I have seen Drummer Alford, who told me my brother George was shot through the right lung and had been taken to hospital,”

Lance-Corporal Taylor and Private George Taylor were both musicians on the Corn Exchange orchestra at Alnwick. 08/05/1915

TAYLOR, R.R. L/Sgt   Ulgham
Grange Crossing
kia Roll of Honour
Killed
Lance- Sergeant R.R. Taylor, Ulgham Grange Crossing.
Richard Taylor TAYLOR, Richard Pte. York and Lancaster R. Alnwick dow

Alnwick Soldier Dies of Wounds.

Official news was received on Thursday morning by Mrs Taylor, Pottergate, Alnwick, that her son, Private Richard Taylor, had died on the 11th May from wounds received in action.

Private Richard Taylor, who was 32 years of age, was the only son of Mrs Taylor and the late Mr Richard Taylor, who died several years ago. “Dicky Taylor,” by which name he was familiarly known in Alnwick, was educated at the Duke’s School, after which he was employed as a clerk in some business houses in the town. Eventually he enlisted into the York and Lancaster Regiment (2nd Battalion), and served for some years with the colours leaving “on the Reserve.” When war was declared, he was called up to join his regiment, he being then employed as a male attendant at the Coxlodge Asylum, Newcastle upon Tyne. While in Alnwick he attained to some reputation as a football player. Many who knew him and still remain in Alnwick, will regret his all to untimely end 29/05/1915

  TAYLOR, Robert Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Denwick wnd Private Robert Taylor, of Denwick (7th Batt.), assistant to Mr. John Archbold, draper, Alnwick, has written home from a Manchester hospital stating that he is wounded in the hand by shrapnel after being in the firing line three days. He hopes to be out and about ??? weeks and able to return again. "This time" he adds "they will suffer for it" He joined at the outbreak of the war. 08/05/1915
William Taylor Bamburgh TAYLOR, William Pte ? Bamburgh wnd Bamburgh and North Sunderland.
 Private J. Gregory, of Bamburgh, (a joiner with Mr. R.R. Mackenzie, of Seahouses), wounded in the foot is in hospital in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, and Private Wm. Taylor of Bamburgh, is in hospital in France with an arm wound. Both are doing well. The Vicar of Bamburgh has enquired through the War Office about the Brothers Wake of Bamburgh. No information has been received there.  08/05/1915
  THOMPSON, ? Pte. 7th North'd Fus. Broomhill wnd Amble. Local men at the front -
Amongst the local men of the 7th NF who were wounded in the recent terrible fighting, when the Germans made a determined rush for Calais were the following: - [list of 18 names]  ....Pte. Thompson, Broomhill.... 01/05/15
  THOMPSON, Charles Pte ?North'd Fus? Alnwick wnd Private Charles Thompson,
eldest son of Mr. Joseph Thompson, mason, Pottergate New Row, has written that he is wounded and in hospital. His term of four years service with the Territorials was just completed when he was called up. He is a mason by trade, for which he served his apprenticeship with his uncle Mr. Chas. Thompson. 01/05/15
George Thompson THOMPSON, Geo.. Pte. 7th North'd Fus? Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... Geo. Thompson, ....... 01/05/1915
J. Thompson Bamburgh THOMPSON, John Pte. 7th North'd Fus Bamburgh wnd Private John Thompson,
 of Bamburgh, 7th N.F. has been wounded since the first lot of casualties and is now in hospital in France. He expects to be in the firing line again shortly. His home is at Bamburgh, but for some time he has been employed in Alnwick as a tailor. 15/05/1915

A good looking dead man from Bamburgh. [same man?]

Private J.T. Thompson, of the Northumberland Fusiliers, son of Mr M Thompson, of the Hermitage, Bamburgh, writes home from the front: — we have been in the trenches since last Friday. On Wednesday we were sent into the 1st line trenches, where we stayed 24 hours, and by jove it was quite long enough, as part here is a proper death trap. An attack was made on our left, by the “kilts.” Our artillery prepared the way, and bombarded for two hours before the attack. Then, when it finished, we open a rapid fire with our rifles, which we kept up for another two hours. Our rifles were red-hot. The “kilts” did not half makes the Germans run, chasing them right across the fields. They took some prisoners, dressed in civilian clothes. In the morning the Germans gave us a taste of their artillery. It was awful! The line just here is horseshoe shape, so we get bullets and shells from three sides, so to speak. Our trench was just thirty yards from the German trenches. The German infantry is not up to much, but they make up for it with their artillery. There is one place, where they had a château and we had the stables close by, only being a few yards apart. I am hardly in my right senses yet. It seems just like a dream. I’m sending you a cutting from one of the papers where my name is posted as “missing, believed to be killed.” The chap who gave it to me said I was a good looking dead man. The reason they have me down as missing is, because when I was wounded I got mixed up with the Canadians, the “I guess” men, a fine lot of fellows. One of them put a bandage on for me, after which I was shelled out of two hospitals and sent on to Le Havre. You see when you have an attack like that, where I got my wound, you sometimes get the order “scatter boys, scatter.” And you have no idea where you are bound for. It is a queer thing running about looking for Germans in the open. It is not like going into the trenches, you know where you are going then. We must put our trust in God, and look forward to the happy meeting, after this terrible affair is over, which I hope will not belong. 26/06/1915

  THOMPSON, William Pte North'd Fus Alnwick wnd [list: Alnwick men wounded in the war]
 Private William Thompson, Northumberland Fusiliers, reported wounded. Mr. Thompson is a son of Mr. Joseph Thompson, Clayport, Alnwick, and was employed as a rural postman at Longhoughton village. 10/10/14
Trotter H. Amble TROTTER, H Pte. 7th North'd Fus Amble kia

Private Trotter — a Little Cross Marks the Spot.

Private G.H. Trotter, son of Mrs Trotter, of Hope Terrace, Amble, has also been reported killed. A letter from his officer, Capt H.R. Smail says: “it is with much regret that I have to inform you of the death of your son, Private G.H. Trotter, which took place on 29 May, at about 8 pm. In looking over the parapet of our trench a stray bullet struck him on the head and death was instantaneous. We laid him to rest alongside a friend of his, Private Glass, and conducted a short service and a little cross marks the spot. His deafness was a handicap to him, and that affliction had been made worse by a shell exploding near him a few days before. I was unaware he was deaf on leaving England, and had intended on coming out of the trenches, to see about his discharge. His effects will be sent home in due course, please accept my deepest sympathy in your loss. — H.R. Smail, Captain 7th N.F.” Private Trotter joins the 1st 7th Northumberland Fusiliers in November last. He first was billeted at Alnwick and then at Seghill. He went for a course of musketry instruction and then returned to Seghill. Whilst there, volunteers for the front were asked for and Private Trotter was one of those who gallantly stepped forward. He left Blyth only 7 weeks ago for the front. 12/06/1915

Christopher Tully TULLY, Christopher Pte. 1st
North'd Fus
Howick wnd Private C. Tully,
of Howick Bathing House, 1st Northumberland Fusiliers, a letter from whom appears in another column, has been reported wounded since he wrote the letter. 26/06/1915  [letter below]

Howick Soldier in a warm place.
Drummer C. Tully, 1st Northumberland Fusiliers, writes home to his aunt, Mrs Henderson, Howick Bathing House, saying he has been in hospital twice since he went out to the front at Christmas. The rest of the time he has been in the trenches. He mentions that they are now "in a warm place and many of his chums are getting knocked over. I often think it may be my turn next, yet I believe I shall get back safely." Drummer Tully's home is at Howick Sea Houses, and he is 19 years of age. 26/06/1915

Private C. Tully of Howick.
Private Chris Tully, of the 1st Batt, N.F. of Howick Bathing House, who has been wounded in the leg writes:-
I am getting on all right. We have been in a terrible battle here; we captured five lines of German trenches. There is only 28 left in my company; it was over 200 strong before we made the charge. I have been very lucky, I only got a slight wound in the leg. I am at the field ambulance now, but I will be back in the regiment in a day or two. When we got in their trenches they just put up their hands and begged for mercy, but we had no mercy. It was the big guns that did us so much harm. We took a good lot of prisoners; some were only boys of 15 and others old men. Some people seem to think they are short of food. There was any amount of food in their trenches. The prisoners said that Italy had not started to fight against them, and Russia was beaten, so they must be kept in the dark. That is what makes them hold out so long. This is a terrible war. I cannot explain what it is like, my nerves are done for now. I feel like and old man. There was some of our chaps went mad; it is the shells that does it. Their shells are bad, but ours are ten times worse. Their first line of trenches were filled up with our shells. I think we will go for a rest after this. It will do us a lot of good. They say that we will get a furlough home then. I will come home if it is only for three days. There is plenty of German helmets here and when I come home I will bring one with me. We might all be home for good soon. I do not think it can last much longer. They must be hard up for men by what we took prisoners. I think this is all I have to say this time. Do not fret, I will come home safe. 03/07/1915
  TURNBULL, William Gnr R.F.A. Belford kia Belford Man Killed in Action.
Mrs J. Robinson, the Grange, received a letter on the 5th of this month from her brother, Gunner James Turnbull, Royal Field Artillery that their brother William, (who was also a Gunner in the Royal Field Artillery) has been killed in action in the Dardanelles. 6/11/1915
  TWEDDLE, Matthew Pte North'd Fus Alnwick wnd [ list: Alnwick men wounded in the war]
 Private Matthew Tweddle, Northumberland Fusiliers, reported wounded. Mr. Tweddle was a clerk in Alnwick Post Office, and Mrs. Tweddle is resident in Woodbine Cottage, Fenkle Street. 10/10/14
George Wake WAKE, George Pte. 7th
North'd Fus
Alnwick Moor wnd Private George Wake,
 7th Northumberland Fusiliers,....is the husband of Mrs. Wake, of Alnwick Moor. He was employed by Messrs. Hardy Bros. He has been wounded in the thigh. He is a rod maker. He joined the N.F. at the beginning of the war and went on foreign service on April 20th. Writing from Convalescent Camp, Rouen, he mentions that a bullet went through his thigh. He is going on favourably. He went to the Corporation Grammar School, Alnwick. 15/05/1915
Thomas Henry Wake

Wilfred Hereward Wake
WAKE, [x2] Thomas Henry and Wilfred Hereward Pte 7th
North'd Fus
Bamburgh kia Bamburgh and North Sunderland.
 Private J. Gregory, of Bamburgh, (a joiner with Mr. R.R. Mackenzie, of Seahouses), wounded in the foot is in hospital in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, and Private Wm. Taylor of Bamburgh, is in hospital in France with an arm wound. Both are doing well. The Vicar of Bamburgh has enquired through the War Office about the Brothers Wake of Bamburgh. No information has been received there.  08/05/1915

Bamburgh Brothers Killed in Action. Two Brothers fall on the same day.
It is with profound regret that we have to report that information was received on Sunday last, by Mr R. Wake, Bamburgh Castle, that his two sons, Private Thomas Henry Wake, and Private Wilfred Hereward Wake, had been killed in action, on April 26th, near Ypres. The two brothers were members of "C" company, 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, The first intimation was received a few days after the battle, from some of their comrades who had returned to England wounded. The sad news cast quite a gloom over Bamburgh and district.
Wilfred was called up to join his regiment at the outbreak of the war, and when a few weeks later a call for new recruits for the 7th was made, his brother Thomas was amongst the first to offer services. After a period of hard training they left Blyth for the front, but after a stay of practically only two days in France they were ordered to the fighting line and fell on the same day and within a few yards of each other, valiantly doing their duty.
They were the younger of five sons and were greatly attached to each other. Wilfred, who was 20 years old, was a tailor by trade, and employed by Messr. R. Coxon & Sons, Sea Houses. He was a member of the church choir and also of St. Aidan's Guild of Bellringers. Thomas who was 25 years of age, was a painter in the employ of Mr. R. Mackenzie, Sea Houses, when he joined the colours.
Both were fine athletes and were well known in cricket and football circles in North Northumberland and their services were highly appreciated by the village clubs, by whom they will be remembered for years to come.
"Tommy" as he was most popularly called was well known in North Northumberland Football League circles, and was often selected to represent that body in inter-league matches. He was an idol in whichever club he played and had often attracted the attention of good judges. As a player he was a most determined worker and would never acknowledge defeat till the final whistle sounded. Both had many friends and were much respected. The deepest sympathy is felt on all sides for the bereaved parents in the loss of their gallant sons, whom they so willingly gave to their king and country. A memorial service is to be held in St Aidan's church on Sunday, at 3pm. 22/05/1915
Lieutenant Watson Armstrong  WATSON-ARMSTRONG, W. Lieut 7th
North'd Fus.
Rothbury wnd Lieut. Watson-Armstrong Shot through the Chest.
Rothburians will deeply regret casualties to two of their officers.
Lieut W. Watson-Armstrong son of Lord Armstrong of Cragside, Rothbury, with the Ashington Company of the 7th, was shot through the chest. A telegram from a hospital in France to that effect was received at Craigside this (Friday) morning. 01/05/15
John R. Walker WALKER, J.R.. Pte. 7th
North'd Fus?
Broomhill/
 Chevington Drift
wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... J.R. Walker, ....... 01/05/1915
J.T. Walker WALKER, J.T.     Chevington Drift    
WALLACE, George W. Pte. North'd Fus South
Broomhill
msg Private George W. Wallace, Northumberland Fusiliers.
If this photo meets the eye of any of his chums they are requested to communicate with Mr George Wallace, South Broomhill, Acklington. 4/12/1915

Private George W. Wallace, 11318, Northumberland Fusiliers is missing. His parents at South Broomhill have not heard anything about him for quite a long time. Chums who may know anything of him, will perhaps communicate with Mr George Wallace, South Broomhill, Acklington. 4/12/1915

Broomhill.
The photo of Private G.W. Wallace appeared in the "Gazette" a fortnight ago. Nothing having been heard of him for quite a long time, his parents at South Broomhill were notified by the War Office on Tuesday morning that he had been killed in action on September 26th. Mr and Mrs George Wallace are among the old residents of South Broomhill, and are known to a wide circle of friends. The news of their son's death has called forth numerous expressions of sympathy with them in their great bereavement. 25/12/1915
  WALLACE, John Pte. 8th
North'd Fus
Alnwick wnd Roll of Honour
Wounded.
Private John Wallace, 8th Northumberland Fusiliers, Alnwick.
  WALLER, J.T. Pte. 7th
North'd Fus?
Broomhill wnd Wounded Local Men.
....News has been received that the following Broomhill men have been wounded at Ypres, and are now in hospital: [list of 26 names] .... J.T. Waller, ....... 01/05/1915 [see Walker J.T. above, probably the same man]
  WARDHAUGH, T.W. Lieut 6th
London Rifles
Chathill wnd Lieut. T.W. Wardhaugh,
of the 6th Battalion London Rifles, who has returned wounded in the arms, shoulder, and thigh, is a former Northumberland teacher. He served as a pupil teacher at Newham, Chathill, before going to Bede College Durham. for three years, Lieut Wardhaugh is the guest of Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Henderson, Aydon Lodge. 26/06/1915
  WEALLENS, Arthur Pte 1st North'd Fus? Alnwick wnd Private Arthur Weallens,
late of the National Reserve, Alnwick, has written under date of June 21st, from the base hospital to Mr. Ralph Henderson, recruiting officer, Alnwick. He says:- Just a few lines to let you know I have had the misfortune to get wounded, and I am at present in a hospital in Oxford. On the morning of the 16th our Brigade made a very successful attack on the German trenches at Hooge. Our Artillery started their bombardment at 2-15 a.m., and it continued till 4-15 a.m. and they deserve great credit, the wire entanglement in front of the German trenches was cut to shreds. We took three lines of trenches. I then got wounded by shrapnel in the right arm and left shoulder, but only slight, and I hope to be all right in a short time. Ours is the ninth brigade and consists of 1st Northumberlands, Scottish Fusiliers, Liverpool Scottish, and the Lincolns. I do not know how any of my Alnwick mates got on. I hope they are all safe. I am looking forward to short furlough before I rejoin my regiment. I had a German helmet I got in their trench, but lost it again when I got wounded. I have a few things I managed to get in my pockets. Our shells played great havoc with with the enemy's trenches, and a good many prisoners were taken. 26/06/1915
  WEDDELL, James L/Cpl 14th
North'd Fus.
Alnwick &
North Seaton
 

Military funeral of Lance Corporal James Weddell.

Lance Cpl James Weddell, aged 23 of North Seaton Village, formerly of Alnwick, who died at the V.A.D. Hospital, Aylesbury, was buried with military honours in the cemetery on Saturday week. Deceased was a member of the D company, 14th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers. A contingent of that regiment journeyed from Chesham to Aylesbury, to pay the last tribute of respect to their comrade. Major Malone was also present. The cough and was covered with the Union Jack, upon which several beautiful wreaths were placed. The Aylesbury Fire Brigade manual engine was used as a conveyance on reaching the cemetery, the deceased’s comrades carried the remains to the grave, headed by a firing party and the buglers. The band of the 10th Yorks. played the “Dead March.” A large number of soldiers billeted in Aylesbury were present. The Rev C.W.Pearson vicar of Walton who regularly conducts services at the V.A.D. Hospital, officiated 12/06/1915

Brian Weightman Shilbottle WEIGHTMAN, Brian B.   7th
North'd Fus.
Shilbottle kia

Private Brian B. Weightman Killed.

Private Brian B Weightman, of Shilbottle, who went to the front with the 7th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers has been officially reported killed in action on April 26th. 12/06/1915

J.W. Weightman  WEIGHTMAN, J.W.  Pte. 7th
North'd Fus.
Shilbottle    Private R.W. Weightman,
 7th Batt. N.F. of Shilbottle, has sent a postcard to his friend, Mr. J. Pearse, of Alnwick, saying that he has been wounded. He is in hospital in France. 15/05/1915
J. White, Belford WHITE, J. Pte. 7th
North'd Fus
Belford wnd Belford Wounded. Private Jno, White of Belford.
7th N.F. age 20, gardener at Belford Hall, and latterly employed by Captain Wilkin, of Middleton Hall, is the son of Mr. George White, of Crag Mill. He joined the above regiment on the 7th September, and left the foreign service on 20th April. A postcard was received on Saturday morning saying he was wounded. The same evening a letter came from a military hospital in Boulogne saying he was shot through both hips, but not seriously. He was going on well and hoped to get about shortly. “We have had all sorts of experiences since we came out here, but our case has been rather exceptional. I am being removed to Rouen tonight”. Private White attended Belford National School. ...08/05/1915
  WILKIE, A. Pte. 7th
North'd Fus
Wooer wnd Private A. Wilkie, Wooler. —
Mrs Wilkie, Wooler, has received news that her son, Private A. Wilkie, has been wounded in the left shoulder. He is on the machine guns section of the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers. 12/06/1915
  WILLCOX, John Pte North'd Fus Alnwick wnd [ list: Alnwick men wounded in the war]
 
Private John Willcox Northumberland Fusiliers, reported wounded. Private Willcox is the eldest son of Mr. Charles Willcox, Dispensary Street Alnwick. 10/10/14
J.A. Williams  WILLIAMS, J A.   Pte. 7th
North'd Fus
Wooler/Alnwick    Private J.A. Williams,
 of Alnwick and Wooler. - Word has been received by Mr. H. Williams, 3 Wood Street Burnopfield, Durham, that his brother Pte. J.A. Williams, 1550 of the 1st 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, has been severely wounded and has had his leg amputated at the hip, and is now lying in the Anglo-American Hospital, Boulogne, in a very critical condition. He joined the Territorials about two years ago at Wooler, and is a native of Alnwick, and is a nephew of Mr. W.T. Williams, of 2 Prudhoe Street, Alnwick. 15/05/1915
Wilson J. D. WILSON, Isaac Dixon Pte. 8th
Durham L.I.
Seahouses wnd

Private Isaac Dixon Wilson,

 of the 8th D.L.I. (Territorials), who hails from Seahouses, has been wounded. He is an old Duke’s School scholar. He joined the Durhams whilst at Bede College. He is down with a wound in the foot and is at present in hospital in Liverpool.  08/05/1915


Private I. Wilson of Sea Houses,

wrote from the Western Hospital, Fazakerley, Liverpool, on the 1st of May to his uncle, Mr. Thomas Dixon, of Cragside, Rothbury, as follows. He is in the 8th Durham Light Infantry- "Have at last got settled down, after a lot of jogging about. Had a most exciting fortnight I assure you - too exciting in some ways. We had quite a decent journey across the Channel. They then shunted us inland to a place somewhere just near the Belgian frontier. We had a few decent days there, but they did not let us rest long. On Friday we were taken up in motor buses to a place. On Saturday night at seven o’clock we moved out to occupy some reserve trenches about two miles north of ___. We had scarcely got into them when word came that we had to push on into the front trenches. Accordingly we pushed on and at 3.30 am found ourselves in trenches with the Canadians, and the German trenches 100 yards in front of us. Things were quiet until about eight o’clock in the morning, when a few stray shots began to fly about. Shortly after, they started to shell us, and kept it up until dark. It was infernal shrapnel, and “Jack Johnson's" and I don’t  know what. They kept peppering away incessantly, and our guns could give us no support, as they could get no ammunition up owing to their shelling the road. Two platoons of our company were on our left, and they got it hotter than us. The Germans had their range to an inch, and scarcely a score of them got out. In the afternoon the Germans broke through on our left and right, and then started shelling us from all sides. All we could do was to hold on in the hope of reinforcements coming up, and pot the Germans off when they appeared. About six we spotted them working round on our left to get us in the rear. It was about time to hop it then - those of us that were left. I don’t know how many of us got through, not many. It simply rained lead, shrapnel, “Jack Johnsons” , maxims galore, and rifle fire on top. I got a bullet through the foot as I was getting through barbed wire fence. It just seemed as if someone had come behind me and kicked my foot. I saw about a dozen of our chaps of our company after. Some of them had got through unscathed, but the majority had got hit somewhere. Our Captain had been hit in the arm and leg, and I suppose our junior captain and lieutenant got on I don’t know. The Germans were shelling the road all the way we were coming along, and chaps were dropping all over. The road was littered with dead horses, broken limbers, etc. Ypres was a heap of ruins before the battle, but they don’t intend to leave any of it evidently. We had to come back through it to get to the dressing station, and shells were dropping on all sides. I got through safely. However and got the motor ambulance with a lot more back to____. On Tuesday night we were put into cattle trucks - the not too serious cases - and sent down to port, 26 hours in the train. There were over 1,600 on the boat. It took us 12 hours to cross, as it was foggy. If you see any papers with our casualty list in please send it. Get cigarettes and what not galore, They seem to say here that they send you off to your own district as soon as ever they can, so I might get to Newcastle shortly- Yours, etc,.  08/05/1915
Mossman Wilson Shilbottle WILSON, Mossman Pte. 7th
North'd Fus
Shilbottle wnd Private Mossman Wilson, of Shilbottle,
who went to the Front with the 1st 7th N.F., has written home to his father, Mr John Wilson of Shilbottle, from Oakley Manor, Shrewsbury, stating that he arrived in hospital there wounded on the 21st June. In other postcards he mentions that he is slightly wounded and says he is going on favourably and is well looked after. He has just undergone an operation and had one of his toes taken off. He had a letter from the Rev. P.T Lee last week. He closes with the remark "Tell me if our second line is away out to France yet." 03/07/1915
  WILSON, William Pte. 8th
North'd Fus.
West
Weetwood
Wooler
wnd Wooler Soldier Wounded.
Mrs Wilson, of West Weetwood, Wooler, has received news from the war office that her youngest son, Private William Wilson, 8th Northumberland Fusiliers, has been wounded in the Dardanelles operations, and is now in hospital at Alexandria. Prior to enlisting in May last, he was under shepherd to Mr Barber, West Weetwood. 13/11/1915
Wood Charles  WOOD, Charles  Pte. 7th
North'd Fus
Shortridge  wnd Private Charles Wood,
7th N.F., was employed in Shilbottle Colliery. His father Mr. James Wood, has been for nearly 30 years shepherd at Shortridge. He joined the above regiment in September, and left for foreign service on April 20th.  In a letter received from the 2nd Northern General Hospital, Leeds. It said he was suffering from a wound in the left leg, but going on satisfactorily.
Charles Wood WOOD, Charles   Pte. 7th
North'd Fus
Thropton wnd

Private Charles Wood,

 7th N.F. age 23, tailor, employed by Messrs, R. Proudlock and Son, of Thropton, and nephew of Mr. James Wood, Thropton, and Mrs. R. Proudlock, Thropton, has written to his relatives, saying he was wounded in the battle of Ypres, being shot through the chin, on the 25th April, and is now lying in the General Hospital. He is going on well. He is a member of the Oddfellows' Society.  08/05/1915

wood  WOOD, Philip Scott  CSM  7th
North'd Fus
Alnwick wnd Wounded. Company Sergeant Major P.S. Wood.
Mrs. T Wood, Lisburn Villa, Alnwick, received an official postcard on Wednesday morning, written on the 26th, from her son, Company Sergeant Philip Scott Wood. It stated I am not well: admitted to hospital wounded" This N.C. Officer is the fifth son of Mrs. Wood and the late Mr. Thos. Wood, and was educated at the Duke's School. He was identified with the Percy Rovers Football Club, and was one of its most prominent players... 01/05/1915

C.S.M. Philip Wood -
 A message from Company Sergeant-Major Philip S. Wood, to his friends in Alnwick, states that he is wounded in the shoulder, arm, and throat, but is going on as well as can be expected. He is in a hospital in Cambridge. 15/08/1915
James Wood WOOD, James L/Cpl. 7th
 North'd Fus
Buston/Shortridge wnd Lance-Corporal Jas. Wood,
“E” Company, 7th N.F. was employed by Mr. F. Deuchar, Shortridge. His father Mr. James Wood, has been shepherd at Shortridge for about 30 years. He joined in September, and left for foreign service on the 20th April. A postcard from France states that Lance-Corporal Wood is wounded in the right side, but is going on favourably. He is in the best of spirits. [brother of Charles Wood/Shortridge above?] 08/05/1915
Samuel Woodland WOODLAND, Samuel Pte. 7th
North'd Fus
Alnwick wnd

Private Samuel Woodland,

of the 7th Northumberland Fusiliers, age 22, miner employed by Shilbottle Colliery, and nephew of Mrs. and the late Samuel Howard Baird, Walkergate, Alnwick, joined in August, 1914, and left for foreign service on April 20th. A card was received on April 30th from him saying, “ I have been admitted into hospital wounded, and am going on well. Hope to be discharged soon. I am being sent down to the base. Letter follows at first opportunity. 08/05/1915

  WRIGHT John L/Cpl 5th
North'd Fus
Whittingham wnd Whittingham Soldier "Gassed."
Mr John Wright, Crosshill, near Whittingham, has received a letter from his son, Lance Corporal John Wright, 5th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, now in hospital at Lincoln. He states that he is suffering from gas poisoning, being gassed at Ypres on Whit-Monday. The Germans sent it at daybreak, and as they were leaving the trenches the Germans opened fire on them with shells, maxims and rifles. He adds that when he dropped he lay for 24 hours under a very heavy fire. He was taken to Boulogne Hospital, and stayed until Sunday, when he was sent over to this country to Lincoln. "Everybody is very kind here," he says, "and I am improving every day." 19/06/1915
T. Wright 9th Lond R. WRIGHT Thomas Pte. 9th
Lond. R.
Akeld wnd

 .......We learn that Thomas Wright, a son of Mr B. Wright, Akeld Station, has received a flesh wound and is in hospital. He joined the Queen Victoria rifles, London, and has been at the front for some time. He was in the fight at Hill 50, and came out without a scratch, but received a bullet wound in the calf of the leg shortly after. He is now lying at the Red Cross Hospital, Manchester....... 1/05/1915

  WRIGHT William L/Cpl. 1st
Manc R.
Alnwick wnd

Lance Corporal William Wright wounded. —

Mr William Wright, West Parade, Alnwick, has received a letter dated 23rd of May, informing him that his grandson, Lance Corporal William Wright, and son of Mr William Wright, cabinetmaker, formerly of Alnwick, is lying wounded in the Armstrong Ward of the Royal Victoria Hospital, Newcastle. Lance Corporal William Wright is a soldier in the 1st Manchester Regiment, and after being wounded at the front he was sent back home, being conveyed all away on a stretcher, his case been marked serious. He has had every attention on the road, and it took 2 days to travel. He was very cheerful when seen by his father on Saturday. His left arm was practically in a sling, and could hardly be moved. He was hit in the shoulder and his lung is pierced. The dastardly Germans, he said, were seen by him going about and bayonetting the wounded. He fortunately hid himself in a ditch after being wounded, where he remained for 6 hours, and the wonder is that he did not bleed to death. 29/05/1915

Yeaman Jack YEAMAN, Jack Pte.   Alnwick wnd

Alnwick Soldier Wounded by Sandbag.

Writing from Rouen Hospital, Private Jack Yeaman, informed his mother, Mrs Ed. Yeaman, 16 Clayport, Alnwick that he was wounded in the hand in the battle of 24th May. In a letter which followed, received by his mother on Wednesday morning, Private Yeaman says: — “I expect I will not be long before I am back home, my hand is going on fine. Last Monday we were sent to support the 1st line. The lads have been attacked by the Germans. We were in a trench about a mile from the German trenches and were being shelled by their big guns. About 4 o’clock in the afternoon a shell burst in our trench destroying half of it. There were 5 of us in it and we were all buried in, when we were got out two of our lads were found to have been killed. David Baxter of Shilbottle, who was the second man to be taken out was deaf a considerable time, but was all right when I left him. I was the third to be taken out. I was not hit by the shell, but it blew the sandbags from the top of the trench and one fell onto the back of my hand, I think I was very lucky. The 4th one extracted was — — I think he was hit by a piece of shell and he was killed. I expect death was instantaneous”. Referring to his relationship with the dead soldier, Private Yeaman says: — “I have never given way before, and I saw many awful sights. But this time — I have lost another of my best pals……… We had been pals, and almost since I came to France the nice things sent to us were shared between us. We were always together, and I can tell you it upset me a bit.”

Private Jack Yeaman is only 19 years of age, he is the eldest son of Mrs Yeaman and the late Mr Edward Yeaman, painter, etc. Keen for soldiering he enrolled into the 7th Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers (Territorials) when only 16 years of age, and went out to France with his battalion on the 20th of April. Previous to being called up he was an assistant with Mr R. Turnbull, butcher, Clayport, and afterwards with Mr M.G.Blythe, butcher, Longhoughton and Alnmouth. 05/06/1915

  YOUNG, Adam L/Cpl. 7th North'd Fus Alnwick wnd Lance-Corporal Adam Young of Alnwick,
7th N.F., in a letter to his brother, Mr J.W. Young, Alnwick, written from the Norfolk and Norwich Red Cross Hospital, states:- I was shot in the early hours of Saturday morning in a wood at Ypres. practically at the same spot as Sergeant E. Headley's son was killed by a shell from a "Jack Johnson" in a previous engagement. I was shot by a sniper. The bullet penetrated through the right cheek and came out the left, carrying away some of my teeth with it. I was removed to the rear and was treated and made comfortable within a very short period of time. I was then sent down to a rest camp and thence removed to the Boulogne hospital, a fine and elaborate place. The nurses and doctors are British. Here I had my first night in bed and ..... ....... The bullet which travelled through my face must have been going at a rare speed. ........ good job for me that it hadn't ........ ........ .....I am thankful I have got such a clean wound. I have seen some awful sights lately at each place I have stopped at. ... I must say the medical arrangements are magnificent, and the good comradeship amongst the wounded is a thing that one cannot help but notice. We are never dull, talking about our experiences and wondering how we are going to get our knock out. 22/05/1915
             
             
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