Post by BereniceUK on Apr 17, 2017 20:02:59 GMT
6398 Lance Corporal Joseph Wilson, 3rd Coldstream Guards. Missing, presumed killed, on 25th August 1914, aged 36. Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Wilson, of Coach and Horses Hotel, Penrith; husband of Margaret Wilson, of 19, Old Lancaster Road, Morecambe. A Joseph Wilson is named on the Penrith memorial.
See 24 February 1915
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(Morecambe Visitor, 2 September 1914)
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Morecambe Ambulance Men Depart
To Assist with Wounded.
On Monday night ten members of the Morecambe Ambulance Division - two corporals and eight privates - left Morecambe for Ireland to assist in tending the wounded.
Yesterday a telegram was received, asking for seven more to be sent at once to Colchester and four are leaving to-day in response to this, whilst two more may follow to-morrow. The names of the men and their destinations are: - Corpl. Orchard and Corpl. Norman (Cork); Pte. Riley and Pte. Barnes (Omagh); Pte. Perkin, Pte. Hutton, Pte. Jackson, and Pte. G. Woodhouse (Athlone); Pte. Houghton (Grey Point, Belfast); Pte. T. Woodhouse (Ballincollig, Cork); Pte. Harwood, Pte. Bishop, Pte. Dickinson, and Pte. Smith (Colchester).
(Morecambe Visitor, 23 September 1914)
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5921 Lance Corporal Samuel Grant, 3rd Worcestershire Regiment. Missing, presumed killed, on 20th October 1914. Husband of Mrs. Grant, of 26, Queen's-square, Morecambe.
See 27 October 1915
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ROLL OF HONOUR - Men who are serving
MORECAMBE AND HEYSHAM.
Royal Flying Corps. - Geo. N. Whiteside.
Welsh Fusiliers. - Lieut. C. Gorton.
London Fusiliers. - Pte. G. Jackson.
R. M. L. I. - Pte. Edwd. Austin.
2nd Suffolk Regiment. - Pte. Hy. Harley.
East Kent Regiment. - Pte. W. V. Darbyshire.
Berkshire Regiment. - Pte. R. L. Walsh.
South Wales Borderers. - Pte. W. H. Harling.
3rd Worcestershire. - Pte. S. Grant.
10th Middlesex. - Pte. H. Gerrard.
Yorkshire L.I. - Ptes. F. Hodgson and R. Gaughan.
16th West Yorks. - Pte. H. Lobley.
King's Royal Rifles. - Pte. J. Livesey (returned home wounded), Pte. L. Alderson.
4th Irish Dragoons. - Trooper N. H. Bell.
East Lancashire Engineers. - Pte. J. W. Wilsdon.
10th West Riding Regiment. - Pte. C. Harwood.
Lanarkshire Yeomanry. - Trooper H. Newton.
South African Rifles. - Pte. E. Roberts.
6th West York. - Pte. N. Lamb.
4th Dragoons. - Trooper R. H. Stuttard.
King's Liverpool Regiment. - Sergt. A. J. Ellis.
R.G.A. - Gunners W. Allan (Malta), J. R. Norton.
Canadian Field Artillery. - Gunner J. E. Dymock.
Malay States Rifles. - Pte. T. Kitching.
Edmonton Rifles. - Pte. J. Royle.
Cheshire Regiment. - Ptes. C. Kinnett and T. W. Beck.
6th Dragoons. - Trooper N. Unsworth.
2nd Dragoon Guards. - Sergt. F. Booth, Troopers F. Siddle, Wm. Hy. Cawsey, Frank Wilde, Thos. McKean, W. Farrar, H. Hoole, H. Warbrick, T. W. S. Pyrah, A. E. Summer, E. Reidy, and J. Hall.
18th Hussars. - Troopers P. Collingwood and E. J. Airey.
16th Lancers. - Troopers J. Bland, F. W. Dibble, and D. Hadwen.
Army Pay Corps. - H. E. Bath, D. Follis.
Gordon Highlanders. - Ptes. H. Radcliffe, S. Farrow, E. Wilkinson.
R. A. M. C. - Ptes. T. B. Renwick, M. Leman, W. High.
R.F.A. - Gunners H. Garnett, J. Jackson, A. Collins, T. Thornton, H. Day.
Manchester Regiment. - Ptes. J. Brayshaw, B. Atkinson, C. O'Brien.
Westmorland and Cumberland Yeomanry. - Troopers N. T. Wilcock, J. W. Gardner, C. Gibson.
9th Yorkshires. - Pte. R. Stephenson.
Shropshire Light Infantry. - H. Hartley, T. B. Walmsley, A. Haythornthwaite, J. Southward, R. Braithwaite, S. Grant.
Royal Warwicks. - H. Batty, J. Dinsdale, F. Titeridge, W. Higham, S. Draper, H. Ford, G. H. Wilsdon, G. E. Walker, L. H. Rawnsley, C. Sherburn, A. W. Johns.
Army Ordnance Corps. - G. W. Shaw, E. Pancott, B. Parsons, W. E. Withers, C. Chadwick, S. Chadwick.
Royal Fusiliers. - A. Browning, V. H. Whitehead, F. Lambert, R. Casson, J. Clarke, A. Bond, H. Shaw, J. Brown, A. Haley, A. Unsworth, G. C. Smith.
Royal Engineers. - C. H. Miller, J. B. Miller, F. R. Gwyn-Richardson, W. O. E. C. Evans, R. Burgess, G. Stuart, W. Burns, T. Long, H. Brook, G. Rowe, T. Barlow, J. Hambley. H. H. Riley, A. Newbold.
Border Regiment. - S. Hall, M. Hall, F. Jones, R. Herou, A. McMillan, J. Salisbury, J. Fryers, R. Beattie, J. Ryan.
Seaforth Highlanders. - G. Wearing, G. Strickland, J. Condon, H. Kelly, R. Angus, J. Seddon, A. Lofthouse, J. Willshaw, B. O'Hare, E. Muston, S. B. Greenall, O' O'Hare, R. Harmer, L. Lewis, A. Balderston, G. H. Sumner, H. Jolleys, J. E. Richards.
Army Service Corps. - J. Bernard Malking, George Pearson, Harold Lennon, Leonard Sykes, William Turner, Wm. Henry Slatter, Edward Henman, Jack Turner, Rd. Cornthwaite, David Woodward, Jno. Parrington, David Bland, N. Preston, M. Corless, Jas. Parrington, Wm. Lloyd, Geo. Grinrod, E. C. Thrupp, A. Wilson, Chas. B. Wilson, Matthew Ward, T. Ward, C. Hutchinson, Simon Clark, Wm. Roberts, Warden Gilchrist, A. Yerburgh, R. Lovebond, G. Lovebond, L. Dawson, C. Blake, R. Broughton, F. R. Cowen, P. Daniels, Jas. Dempsey, John Dempsey, T. Dent, R. Dixon, W. Hayton, H. Hodgson, T. Hodgson, A. Kilgour, T. Moran, G. Roper, A. Roper, F. Brayshaw, H. Holding, A. Allan, G. H. Lee, W. L. Robinson, F. Udall, A. Bolton, J. S. Smith, J. Wightman, G. A. Hudson, S. W. Morris, B. Wheeldon, C. E. Dines, E. Maltby.
King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment.
3rd Battalion. - Ptes. G. Austin (killed in action), H. Booth, A. Rushton.
4th Battalion. - Col.-Sergt. W. Walker.
Kitchener Battalion. - H. Booth, C. Dalton, J. Peel, E. Hibbert, G. Miller, J. A. Cook, F. C. Dixon, T. Muldon, G. Stewart, J. Swales, Wm. Armistead, F. Gough, Jno. Woodhouse, Jas. Woodhouse, T. H. Davies, R. Williams, L. Hannah, R. Smith, F. Roberts, W. Dyke, Jos. Perry, D. G. O. Hepworth, J. E. Reeves, R. Salt, H. Bradshaw, J. Jones, H. Asquith, R. Boyd, Jas. Jennings, Wm. Wilson, J. Theobald, Jos. Markin, W. Atkinson, G. D. Jones, Albert E. Dickinson, H. J. Huddleston.
5th (Imperial Service) Battalion. - Major J. H. Bates, Capt. W. O. Wright, Lieut. H. Coupland, Lieut. and Quartermaster Hodgkinson, Colour-Sergt. E. Greenwood, Sergt. G. F. Dixon, Sergt. H. Gill, Sergt. G. R. Snowden, Lance-Sergt. T. Ellison, Corpl. J. Richardson, Corpl. W. Parr, Lance-Corpl. A. E. Barber, Lance-Corpl. J. W. Carter, Lance-Corpl. T. W. Brayshaw, Lance-Corpl. Bindloss, Lance-Corpl. Harry Wright, Lance-Corpl. H. Holmes, Lance-Corpl. R. S. Brockbank, Privates A. E. Airey, T. Airey, F. Bird, A. Brayshaw, C. Brayshaw, G. Cooper, L. A. Dixon, W. H. Dixon, P. A. Hancock, S. Houghton, W. E. Hoyle, J. Janson, W. P. Jackson, R. Mansfield, T. McCormack, J. McTigue, E. Moran, W. H. Osborne, H. Parkinson, T. Siddle, R. Ralph, G. Hillman, A. Sterland, G. Timperley, J. Toulmin, H. Verden, Reg. Vere Whitehead, H. E. Waite, W. Walls, J. Willacy, J. Woodhouse, W. Worby, H. Bibby, F. Brear, C. Cotton, J. Newboult, P. Redhead, F. Waddington, A. E. Helme, G. Downham, J. Mabbs, H. N. Thacker, G. E. Worden, J. Douglas, O. Proctor, C. N. Holmes, A. Robinson, C. Roscoe, C. Robinson, A. Mogg, R. Yates, W. H. Allen, J. Nixon, J. H. Wren, H. Boustead, H. Lapworth, Wilfrid Thompson, Thos. Holding, T. Timperley.
5th (Reserve) Battalion. - Major B. W. Hogarth, Lieut. S. T. Scott, Privates P. H. Atkin, F. Ashworth, J. Armistead, A. V. Ashton, Geo. Anderton, W. A. Armistead, H. Armistead, W. Armistead, P. Armistead, J. Armitage, J. Berry, Geo. Hodgson Ball, E. Bell, E. G. Baker, W. Brayshaw, J. H. Battersby, T. Brown, W. Baxter, F. Brooks, H. Briggs, R. Bartholomew, C. E. Bradley, J. Blacow, A. Birchall, H. T. Barker, F. Brayshaw, H. Bell, A. Baron, J. W. Barrow, L. Boothroyd, R. E. Baynes, L. Bellott, W. Bartholomew, W. Bunting, T. Blacow, G. Baynes, James Henry Casson, F. Clarke, M. Clarke, F. Cantrill, C. Collier, H. Clarke, J. Curwen, J. Casson, J. S. Clark, C. Dunn, J. Dodgson, A. Downham, H. Dugdale, R. Dugdale, J. Dodgson, T. Edmondson, W. Elkin, F. Escolme, W. Escolme, W. French, W. H. Freeman, G. W. Fish, W. Fleetwood, H. Fearnly, P. S. Greenwood, H. Galloway, J. Groves, H. Gerrard, G. Gerrard, W. Gerrard, F. Gorst, H. Gorst, J. R. Griffiths, F. Gibson, H. Geldert, L. Green, A. Grey, J. A. Halmes, M. Hodgson, A. Hodgson, Wilf Hodgson, F. H. Horner, E. Hayton, F. Holgate, Wm. Hall, A. E. Harrison, E. Hadwin, A. Hadwin, A. J. Hadwin, Holmes, H. Hillman, T. Hepworth, L. Headlands, A. Haley, H. Hodson, W. Hodgson, J. Harrison, T. Heath, Ed. Heath, B. Hilton, T. Hadath , Rd. Holme, John Hodge, T. Isaacs, E. Jackson, J.Jackson, A. Johnson, G. Kirkby, Wm. G. Kellett, H. C. Lund, R. Lee, G. Locock,J. Longmire, F. Lupton, D. Lee, F. Lee, O. Lamb, J. Marshall, A. Moore, Wm. Mortimer, R. Mason, N. Meadowcroft, C. Milnes, T. Masters, J. Mayor, J. McMeeking, B. McMeeking, W. Newton, C. G. Norton, L. V. Nicholson, M. Newton, J' O'Brien, R. Prosser, H. Parker, J. H. Procter, A. E. Procter, Jas. Parkinson, B. Parrington, W. Petty, H. Rawes, J. P. Riley, W. Ross, H. B. Roper, T. Rawson, J. Rawson, W. A. Sankey, N. Sands, T. Swain, J. Swain, C. Simmons, J. Swain, W. B. Slater, A. L. Slater, J. Steel, J. Swaites, J. W. Scott, A. Swindlehurst, J. Townley, J. Thornton, F. Tory, H. Threlfall, H. Taylor, F. Thompson, J. Travis, J. Threlfall, L. Woodhouse, R. Whinray, J. Woodhouse, Wm. Woodhouse, F. Woodward, E. Whitaker, C. Williams, T. Woodhouse, H. Wilkinson, C. Whitehead, D. Woodhouse, P. E. Wilcock, H. S. Webster, W. Waugh, T. C. Weatherill, T. Wigglesworth, F. Woodward, J. Willacy, J. Walsden, W. Whitehead, H. Whitfield, J. Latham, J. Haythornthwaite, R. Cookson, J. W. Nellis, J. W. Bradley, J. Gill, T. Lawrance, O. Hodgson, A. Curwen, J. Parr, P. Parr, W. S. Holt, R. Birch, G. Moran, A. Clarke, A. Barton, W. Haywood, E. H. Wilkinson, D. R. Gardner, L. J. Haberlin, J. Tomlinson, J. H. Dennison, T. Moore, G. Bond, H. Stevenson, T. E. Richardson, G. Brazier, J. Hogge, W. A. Meredith, A. Hadwen, F. S. Oxley, G. Lamb, J. Jackson, K. S. Bracewell, H. C. C. Wells, W. Clarke, A. H. Sutcliffe.
AMBULANCE DIVISION
8th Field Ambulance. - Pte. G. Douthwaite.
At Various Hospitals. - Corpls. H. R. Orchard and E. H. Norman, Ptes. A. Barnes, f. W. Riley, G. Woodhouse, R. S. Hetton, J. R. Jackson, H. Perkis, H. Houghton, T. Woodhouse, R. Harwood, F. Bishop, P. Dickinson, A. Smith, G. Dixon, G. Brown, A. Waltho, M. Hatfield, H. Tuner, N. Hasker, J. Titterington.
(Lancaster Guardian, 19 December 1914)
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Naval Captain's Thanks.
To Central School Pupil.
An instance of the appreciation with which the men on active service receives gifts of articles of warm clothing knitted for them is afforded in a letter which has been received by Miss Ina Dugdale, of Euston-road, Morecambe, a pupil at the Central Girls' School. Miss Dugdale has knitted several woollen articles for the sailors, and Capt. George Borrett, of H.M.S. Warrior, has written her the following letter, under date, December 20th: -
"Dear Ina, - Thank you very much for the nice warm present you sent for my men. We are all so grateful for the way everyone at home is working for us, and you may be sure your work will be of use to your country as a warm sailor is worth two cold ones when it comes to fighting. A Merry Xmas to all the girls at your school. - From yours very sincerely,
GEORGE BORRETT, Captain."
(Morecambe Visitor, 30 December 1914) en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Borrett
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10258 Lance Corporal Archibald 'Archie' Holden, 2nd King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Died 9th February 1915, aged 18. Son of John and Ellen Holden, of 12, Osborne Road, Morecambe.
HOLDEN. - Died in France, on the 9th Feb., Lance-Corpl. Archie Holden, aged 18, 2nd Bn. The King's Own Royal Lancaster Regt. "He gave his life for his country." - Father, Sister, and Brother.
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On Sunday news was received by ex-Colour-Sergeant-Instructor Holden of the death of his son, Lance-Corporal Archibald Holden, a promising young soldier only 18 years of age.
Lance-Corporal Holden was serving with the 2nd Battalion, the King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment which was stationed at Barrackpore, near Calcutta, India, at the time of the outbreak of war.
In November last the Regiment received orders to proceed to the Front and embarked along with 70,000 Indian troops, in 81 transports.
They were escorted by French and British Gunboats from India, the Indian troops, as is well known, disembarking at Marseilles.
The Royal Lancasters came on to England, and were located at Winchester until January 14th, when they went to France and into the fighting line.
Lance-Corporal Holden has been in the army close upon 5 years, and previous to joining he visited many parts of the world with his father who is a well-known Service man.
The news that he was seriously ill was received from the Chaplain to the forces on February 9th, and on Sunday came the further message that he died on the 9th and was buried on the 10th.
These are the only particulars received up to the time of going to press.
Great sympathy is extended to ex-Colour-Sergeant-Instructor Holden, who is highly esteemed in Morecambe, and his family.
(Morecambe Visitor, 17 February 1915)
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6398 Lance Corporal Joseph Wilson, 3rd Coldstream Guards. Missing, presumed killed, on 25th August 1914, aged 36. Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Wilson, of Coach and Horses Hotel, Penrith; husband of Margaret Wilson, of 19, Old Lancaster Road, Morecambe. A Joseph Wilson is named on the Penrith memorial.
(Morecambe Visitor, 24 February 1915)
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10709 Private Arthur Hamnett, 2nd Duke of Wellington's (West Riding Regiment). Killed in action on 7th March 1915, aged 23. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Hamnett, of 43, South Grove, Morecambe.
The other Morecambe man, whose death is reported, is Private Arthur Hamnett, eldest son of Mr. Hamnett, of 43, South-grove, who carries on business as a greengrocer in Derby-street.
He enlisted at the outbreak of war in the 2nd West Riding (Duke of Wellington's Own) Regiment, and Corp. Davey, in the same regiment, writing to Mr. and Mrs. Hamnett acquainting them of their son's heroic end, said that Hamnett was shot in the head, and he (Corporal Davey), who was by his side, sat with him until he died.
Private Hamnett was one of the best men he had in his section, and he felt his death very keenly.
Just before the young soldier passed away he gave instructions that certain things should be sent to his mother. He was 23 years of age and married, but leaves no children.
The greatest sympathy is felt with Mr. and Mrs. Hamnett in their sad bereavement.
The deceased formerly assisted his father in the business for some time, and since joining the colours he has sent home many touching letters, and his mother was well nigh prostrated with grief when the sad intelligence was received.
Private Hamnett was very courteous and obliging, and immediately after joining the regiment he became very proficient, for he wrote home with pride on one occasion to say he had got four bulls-eyes and two inners.
Strange to sat the last letter from him, dated the 2nd of March, was received on March 7th, the day of his death, in which he referred to the terrible slaughter that was taking place, and at the same time wished his younger brother, Sam, whose birthday was on March 10th, many happy returns of the day.
(Morecambe Visitor, 24 March 1915)
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1655 Private William Walls, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed in action on 8th March 1915, aged 19. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Walls, of Pedder Street, Morecambe.
WALLS. - Killed in action near the Belgian Frontier, on Monday, March 8, 1915, William Walls, aged 19, of the 5th Batt. King's Own, Royal Lancaster Regiment (Territorials); son of Mr. and Mrs. Walls, of Pedder-street and Queen-street, Morecambe.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.
MR. & MRS. WALLS and family desire to thank their many friends for their kind expressions of sympathy in their bereavement by the death of their son, William, at the Front.
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Morecambe "Terrier" Killed.
Pte. Walls Hit by a Sniper's Bullet.
Grave Dug in an Orchard.
LOCAL LADS IN THE TRENCHES.
The news of the first casualty amongst the 5th King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment (Territorials), who recently went from Sevenoaks to France, was conveyed in a letter from Sergt. H. Gill, of "C" Company, to his mother.
The letter is dated March 9th, from France, and in it Sergt. Gill says: -
"I am still keeping well and I hope all at home will continue to keep in good health. We have now been into Belgium. Greenwood, myself, and three of my Company officers went into the trenches on Friday night, and stayed there until Saturday night. We had a taste of both German rifle fire and artillery fire. Their rifle fire is not up to much, but their artillery don't half give you what for. Their shells make a terrible hole when they explode and throw stones and mud up in the air.
WHOLE COMPANY IN THE TRENCHES.
We came out on Saturday night until Monday night. We passed through some small villages in Belgium on our way to the firing line, and it is a very sorrowful sight to see. The square has some big holes in the road where the German shells have dropped, and quite a lot of houses are completely demolished by the German artillery. We also saw a hospital which the Germans had shelled on Friday morning, and it was a complete wreck and several wounded English soldiers were killed.
"The Belgian people have to leave the town during the day while the place is being shelled, and they return after dark to sleep. I think they are all leaving now, because the Germans seem determined to completely destroy the place. Most of the Belgians in the place were removing all their furniture out of their homes this morning (Tuesday)."
"The people of the house where we slept on Monday night were leaving their home this morning, and it made us feel sorry for them to see mother and daughter in tears.
HOW PRIVATE WALLS DIED.
"We have also had the bad luck to lose one of the Morecambe boys yesterday (Monday). This was William Walls, son of Mr. Walls, the sugar boiler of Queen-street. The poor lad was shot by a German sniper about 7 on Monday morning, and he was buried at night about two miles from the firing line in Belgium. He was in my section, and I stopped behind to see him buried. The grave was dug in an orchard adjoining a farm house, and the burial service was read over the grave in the light of only a small electric torch, and a very weird service it was.
"We came back from the trenches covered all over with mud, and it is a sight to see the fields that ought to be getting prepared for sowing grain, trampled into a mudpool by the troops passing to and from the firing line. The Germans are quite a tricky sort of people, and at night they are continually sniping, throwing up flare lights to see what we are doing.
SHELLS DROPPING TEN YARDS AWAY.
"Yesterday, while we were in the trenches our artillery shelled the German trenches and they did some good work. The Germans then shelled us with shrapnel, but they did not hit our trench once, although some came as near as ten yards from the trench. You must not worry about me, I shall do my best to take care of myself, and hope (God willing) to be spared. The people in England cannot realise what an awful war this is. It is horrible, and I for one shall be glad when it is over and we are all safe back in England. Please give my best respects to all my friends in Morecambe."
Pte. Walls joined the Morecambe Company of the Territorials some months before the outbreak of war, and was called up for active service early in August along with the rest of the company. He was well known and much liked in Morecambe, and to his family messages of sympathy and regret have poured in.
(Morecambe Visitor, 17 March 1915)
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3316 Private Albert Mogg, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed in action on 12th March 1915, aged 17. Son of Henry and Annabella Mogg, of 19, Tunstall Street, Morecambe.
Private Albert Mogg, who joined the Morecambe Territorial Company on September 3rd and was killed in action on March 12th. It is a rather strange coincidence that Pte. Mogg's father, who was formerly a Corporation employee and who also enlisted in September and has already seen service in the firing line, was at home, owing to wounds, when the news came to hand. He is in the 2nd Welsh Regiment, which has earned distinction in the field and has been twice wounded. Pte. Mogg, senior, has previously been in the regular army. He was with the 39th Regiment, 1st Dorsets, and later transferred to the 5th Dragoons, and served in Egypt. He had completed his time, but volunteered for active service on September 2nd, the day before his son enlisted, and joined the Welsh Regiment.
On the second occasion on which he was wounded he had a very narrow escape, a rifle bullet passing through the top of his cap, and inflicting a flesh wound on the head.
CAPTAIN'S TRIBUTE TO PRIVATE MOGG'S DEVOTION TO DUTY.
A fine tribute has been paid to the manner in which the late Pte. A. Mogg conducted himself in the army by the officer commanding his company. Writing to Mrs. Mogg, who is living at Tunstall House, Edward-street, Captain F. Eaves says: -
I am commanded by Lt. Col. the Rt. Hon. Lord Richard Cavendish, Officer Comdg. the 5th King's Own, to express to you his sincere sympathy in the loss of your son Pte. A. Mogg, who (as you will no doubt have already been informed by the War Office), was killed in action on the 12th inst.
"As officer commanding the Company to which your son belonged, I can only speak with the greatest gratitude and admiration of his devotion to duty, and can assure you that the loss of such a good comrade and friend is deeply felt by all ranks of his company.
"Your son's personal belongings will be despatched to you in due course."
(Morecambe Visitor, 24 March 1915)
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(Morecambe Visitor, 31 March 1915)
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(Morecambe Visitor, 31 March 1915)
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FOUR GALLANT MORECAMBE LADS.
BRAVE WORK UNDER HEAVY FIRE.
It must have been Hell
Major Bates' tribute to the Four Morecambe Lads.
A letter from Major Bates, Second in Command of the 5th King's Own Territorials, bears testimony to the gallant and efficient way in which the regiment is conducting itself and carrying out their duties in the most trying conditions in the trenches.
Major Bates also refers to the incident in which four Morecambe lads distinguished themselves. He says: -
"The occasion was the latter part of last week. You would see we had a big fight, lost a number of men, and got about 10,ooo Germans. That was the occasion. We were not in the thick of it, but if it was any worse than on our little stretch it must have been hell. The guns began to shell thousands of rounds an hour. They can pitch them straight and marvellously accurate, to a few yards.
"Right in the thick of it orders came down the trenches. 'All stretcher bearers out.'
"They were not under rifle fire, but the shelling was awful.
"Out these three Morecambe lads went - Waddington, Greenwood, and Cotton. Brear was also out, but not with this particular party. Their job was to carry wounded down to the dressing station; go back and back again for more, under the hottest shell fire that could be brought to bear on them. Pluck is not the word for it. How they came through it can only be put down to God's good will. They were out for hours and did splendid work. Stanley saw it all. He was in the trench (firing line) immediately behind them. He told me of it and expressed the opinion if these chaps did not get the D.C.M. it was not worth having.
"I was proud of the lads.
"I have seen one of them several times since, but all he will say is, 'He was jolly frightened when he set off, but he got used to it.'
"Stanley also had a rough time. He was shelled for twelve solid hours. To make things more unpleasant our own guns went short and plugged a dozen shells on top of his sandbags before he could stop them by telephone. He lost one man and had another wounded. A couple of feet more would have wiped them all out. They are only lads, but men in pluck. I was talking to their Commanding Officer and he told me they had no fear."
Speaking of the work of the Battalion, he says: -
"It's a rough job, but we are as happy as larks. The good folks at home have no idea of the hardships, not to mention danger, these splendid fellows are undergoing for the benefit of the old country.
"Remember me most kindly to all Morecambe, for they are my friends."
Cyril C. Cotton
Frank Brear
Percy Greenwood
Frank Waddington
((Morecambe Visitor, 31 March 1915)
A Gallant Lad.
Pte. Greenwood, writing to his mother, says: -
"We have at last had a taste of actual warfare. We had two days in the fighting line, and a very busy time we had too.
"We marched to the trenches, got there about 10 p.m., and were under rifle fire before we got there.
"'C' Company and four of us, stretcher bearers, marched in with a certain regiment of regulars and were in for two days. I say we, but I mean all but stretcher bearers. We, the stretcher bearers, were in a farm near the trenches, and near in case of need. Well, we had a quiet night, with a few shots, just to show our fellows were not asleep. Well, about three p.m., our artillery started, and for about two hours the place was like I don't know what, French 75 centimetre guns, our own quick firers, and shrapnel bursting all about.
"About four o'clock there was a call for all stretcher bearers, so Brear, Cotton, Waddington, and myself started out, and my word we did have a time, as the shrapnel was bursting in all directions, and German rifle bullets flying in all directions. Well, we finished carrying the wounded and dead by about 4-30 in the morning, and my word we were tired, as we had to carry all the cases about two miles to the nearest field dressing station. We had two men in 'C' Company killed with rifle bullets.
"Ernest and myself are both well. He was rather surprised when he saw us from the trenches carrying the men off under fire."
((Morecambe Visitor, 31 March 1915)
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9672 Lance Corporal Joseph George Spencer, 1st King's Own Scottish Borderers. Killed in action on 26th April 1915. Son of Mrs. Spencer, of Euston Road, Morecambe.
MORECAMBE MAN KILLED.
Scottish Borderers in the Dardanelles.
News has been received that Lance-Corpl. Joseph Spencer, son of Mrs. Spencer, of Euston-road, Morecambe, has been killed during the landing operations in the Dardanelles. He was a fine type of the British soldier, standing well over six feet, and during his twelve years' service with the Scottish Borderers his character had been exemplary. After the declaration of war the Scottish Borderers were sent to France, where a long period of hard fighting was experienced, the famous regiment suffering heavily, Lance-Corpl. Spencer being amongst the wounded - in the hand. He recovered and later the Borderers were ordered to the Dardanelles, where Lance-Corpl. Spencer met his death. This sad intelligence came as a sad blow to the family and their many friends, and they are to be deeply sympathised with in their painful loss.
(Morecambe Visitor, 26 May 1915)
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Imaginary 'Zeppelins' turn out to be only Passing Clouds.
Unfounded Rumour.
Shortly after nine o'clock on Sunday night Morecambe's serenity was disturbed by the sound of three thrilling blasts of the Corporation siren - the signal announced to be given to warn residents of the approach of hostile aircraft.
People rushed out into the streets to learn that a Zeppelin had been seen. Anxious eyes turned up to the moonlit sky, and much excitement prevailed.
The commotion was based upon information laid by a special constable and a number of soldiers looking across the bay outside the Grand Hotel, who declared they had seen an aeroplane hovering over the bay in the direction of Ulverston.
They watched it so long and became so convinced that it was some "engine of destruction" that the special constable telephoned to the police station that an aeroplane had been seen hovering over the bay in the direction of Ulverston.
This information was then sent to the Corporation gasworks, and the "buzzer" sounded three times in accordance with prior orders issued by the Corporation as the signal of the approach of hostile aircraft.
By this time crowds of people had gathered on the Front, and to make matters more thrilling, buglers paraded nearly every street giving the signal for the Manchester troops to "fall in."
Hurrying and scurrying of troops along the streets and their assembling together naturally created alarm. Lights were extinguished and all sorts of silly prophecies were made. Some joked and others ridiculed the idea that Zeppelins could ever reach this part of Morecambe.
After waiting some time no signs of an aeroplane or Zeppelin could be seen. Telephone enquiries by the Morecambe police at Barrow and Ulverston failed to shed any information on the matter, in fact all round the district nothing at all had been seen or heard.
The crowd then began to regard the rumour as a silly scare. The troops dispersed, and shortly afterwards Morecambe was fast asleep, except those residents whose nerves had naturally been upset by the unfortunate alarm.
It behoves persons who are looking across the bay to be more careful and see that they are quite sure of their vision before giving information to the police. By so doing such scenes as were witnessed on Sunday night will be prevented in the future.
The alarm has its cheerful side, for it is said that at least two of the Morecambe young men of eligible age recruited next morning.
(Morecambe Visitor, 30 April 1915)
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Morecambe Man Wounded.
Private G. Downham, son of Mr. and Mrs. Downham, of Moss-lane, Morecambe, has been wounded in the head, just above the eyes, and has been at the Stationary Hospital at Boulogne nearly a week. "We are pleased to say," says the Chaplain in a letter to his mother, "that he is making satisfactory progress, but it is slow business with such a serious wound."
Mr. and Mrs. Downham have two other sons serving their King and Country.
(Morecambe Visitor, 5 May 1915)
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907 Lance Corporal James William Carter, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). 4th May 1915, aged 23. Son of James Carter, of Clarence Street, Morecambe; husband of Florence Carter.
Lance-Corpl. Carter.
of the 5th King's Own.
News of the death of Lance-Corpl. W. Carter, of the 5th King's Own Rgt.., has been received during the week. He was killed whilst on duty in the trenches on the 4th of May. To his young wife, who lives at Carlston-road, Lancaster, and to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Henry Carter, of Clarence-street, Morecambe, this sad intelligence came as a great blow, and much sympathy is felt for them in their bereavement. Lance-Corpl. Carter was a member of the 5th King's Own Territorial Battalion, and he went to France with the first drafts of men ordered out. Before being mobilised for service he was employed at Messrs. Williamson's, Lancaster, where he was very popular and highly regarded.
Writing to the widow on the 6th of May, Capt. F. Eaves, Officer Commanding "C" Co., says: -
"Dear Mrs. Carter, - Colonel Lord Richard Cavendish desires me to express to you his deepest sympathy in the loss you have sustained by the death of your husband, Lance-Corpl. Carter, who was killed in action on the 4th inst., while on duty in the trenches at Frezenberg. I can assure you that his loss is deeply felt by me and his comrades in the company, and it will be some consolation to you to know that he died like a soldier and a hero. Your son was laid to rest the same night in a soldier's grave by his comrades."
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
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3078 Private George Shuttleworth, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed on 4th May 1915, aged 21. Son of James and Agnes Shuttleworth, of 10, Rose Street, Morecambe.
Pte. Shuttleworth was killed by a bursting shell on the 4th of May, whilst doing duty in the trenches with the 5th King's Own. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Shuttleworth, of Lord-street, Morecambe, to whom we feel sure, deep sympathy will be extended in their sad bereavement. Previous to the war Pte. Shuttleworth worked as an agricultural labourer for Mr. Hargreaves, of Sunderland, and he was held in very high regard by his employer and the family. He joined the King's Own Regiment when the country first began to call for men, and received his early training at Blackpool.
"LAID TO REST IN A SOLDIER'S GRAVE."
This week his father received a letter conveying the sad news from Capt. F. Eaves, C.O. of "C" Co., who wrote as follows, from Ypres: -
"Dear Mr. Shuttleworth, - Colonel Lord Richard Cavendish desires me to express to you his deepest sympathy in the loss you have sustained by the death of your son, Pte. Shuttleworth, who was killed in action on the 4th inst., while on duty in the trenches at Frezenberg. I can assure you that his loss is deeply felt by me and his comrades in the company, and it will be some consolation to you to know that he died like a soldier and a hero. Your son was laid to rest in a soldier's grave by his comrades the same evening."
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
MR. & MRS. SHUTTLEWORTH desire to express their thanks for the many kind expressions of sympathy received in their very sad bereavement.
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
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1032 Private James McTigue, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed on 4th May 1915.
Private McTigue was a member of the 5th King's Own Territorial Regiment, having many years' service in when the great conflict commenced last August. With his colleagues he went out with the first contingent of the King's Own, and from that time up to his death, he was with his regiment in many important engagements.
Prior to August he was employed at Messrs. Ward's, shipbreakers, and was well known and respected in the town. He resided in Sun-street, Morecambe, at which address his widow received the sad intelligence that he had fallen.
HIS LAST LETTER.
A few days prior to being fatally struck by a shell, Pte. McTigue, writing to his wife, said: -
"We are out of the trenches after five days under heavy fire, and you would not think a sparrow could escape death - so terrible is the firing. Six Lancaster men quite recently were blown to pieces by a 'Jack Johnson.' Myself and Jim (stepson) came out unhurt, although we were right in the thick of it, and our losses were heavy. I hope the war will soon be over, and we manage to get home safe and sound, for I should look upon a nice sleep away from the awful noise of the guns as a luxury. Keep your heart up, for with God's help I will return to Morecambe.
DIED LIKE A SOLDIER.
A few days later Mrs. McTigue received the following: -
6/5/'15.
Dear Mrs. McTigue,
Col. Lord Richard Cavendish desires me to express to you his deepest sympathy in the loss you have sustained by the death of your husband, Private McTigue, who was killed in action on the 4th inst., while on duty in the trenches. I can assure you that his loss is deeply felt by me and the remainder of the company, and it will be some consolation to you to know that he died like a soldier and a hero. Your husband was laid to rest the same evening in a soldier's grave behind the trenches.
- I am, your sincerely, F. Eaves, Capt.
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
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"MORECAMBE IS PROUD OF YOU,"
Attack Over Open Country
Pte. George Bell, of the 5th King's Own, was formerly a member of the "Visitor" printing staff. He joined the army after the outbreak of war, and since going out to the theatre of operations he has been in the midst of some of the hottest fighting in the campaign. He writes: -
"By jove! we have gone through it this last week and no mistake, and when the report is published in the papers you will be proud of the 5th Battalion, Unfortunately, we have lost heavily, although a good number of the casualties are only slight wounds. Billy Jones and P. Greenwood have been hit, but both were only slightly wounded. We have been engaged in what the 'old swot' out here term 'the toughest battle yet fought in the war,' and one chap, who went through Neuve Chapelle, said 'the last do was worse even than that memorable affair.'
"To begin at the beginning. We were relived from the trenches a week last Saturday, and went into billet in an asylum, where we landed at 3 on Sunday morning. The enemy then commenced to bombard the town, and the second night it was too hot to stay any longer, so we took to the fields for safety, where we stayed for two days and a night. Twenty-four hours later we got orders to move, and ultimately landed as support to certain attacking regiments. We dug ourselves in on the side of a road, and on the night of the 23rd we got right into 'the soup.' And the 'soup' was hot, too. You may imagine our lads' feelings when the order came to fix bayonets! But they didn't hesitate. The position we had to attack was over open country, and the enemy were holding a strong place on the top of a slope. It was all over in an hour, and our battalion came back about 200 short.
"The following day we went into a park, and on the 27th we had again to go into support. We set off at 4 in the afternoon, and got a couple of miles across the country when the German artillery found us. We hurriedly dug ourselves in, but one 'coal box' found some of our chaps, killing ten and wounding five. It was awful while it lasted, and when the order came saying we were to be relieved every man of us was thankful."
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
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1621 Private Louis Warwick, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed on 8th May 1915, aged 17. Son of George Albert and Annie Jane Warwick, of 29, Connie Street, Openshaw, Manchester.
KILLED IN ACTION,
PTE. L. WARWICK, FORMERLY OF MORECAMBE.
News has been received that Private L. Warwick, of 5th King's Own, was killed at St. Julien during April. He joined the Territorials before war was declared, and went to the front with the first contingent. Pte. Warwick's family now reside in Manchester, but formerly they were residents of Morecambe.
(Morecambe Visitor, 2 June 1915)
"THE DEATH PLAIN"
Morecambe Soldier Killed.
HIS LAST LETTER HOME.
Writing to his mother, who resides at Openshaw, Private Louis Warwick (formerly of Morecambe), a member of the 5th King's Own, who was killed a few days after writing, says: -
"Up to the present I am well, but we have had a hot time in the trenches, losing seventy-two men killed and injured. The danger is worse, however, getting in and out for we have to cross some land called "The death plain." (It sounds a bit unhealthy). To tell the truth I am tired of it all, and the sooner peace is declared the better.
"The other day we were just tackling breakfast, when the Germans sent a shell tearing into the trench. It exploded near to me, wounding three of my mates, and throwing me over with my nose in the frying pan. Needless to say, the breakfast was lost.
"Reuben Bartholomew was wounded in the arm by shrapnel, but it was not severe enough to get him a passage home. Remember me to sister Hilda and kiss the 'kiddies' for me."
(Morecambe Visitor, 23 June 1915)
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Lieutenant Stanley Knight Bates, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed in action on 9th May 1915, aged 17. Son of Lieutenant Colonel John Henry Bates, T.D., 1st/5th King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment, and Sarah Eleanor Bates, of Fir Bank, Fell Lane, Penrith.
Lieut. S. K. Bates Killed in Action.
News of the death in action of Lieut. Stanley Knight Bates, the 5th King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment, son of Major Bates, of Fir Bank, Fell-lane, Penrith, manager of the Bank of Liverpool at Penrith, and formerly of Morecambe, has occasioned great sorrow. The deceased was an Old Boy of Lancaster Grammar School, being an Ashton House exhibitioner and prefect of the School House. He took keen interest in the work of the O.T.C. from its commencement, obtained his colours in the Rugby team, and was also in the school cricket team. At the outbreak of the war he obtained a commission in the regiment of which his father was the second in command, and crossed with them to France on February 14th. He was a zealous young officer, and it is a touching circumstance that he and another Old Boy of the school, Pte. A. G. Ripper, fell together.
The young officer was but seventeen years of age, and Major Bates, who has nobly given his best in this, our country's sternest trial, will be greatly condoled with in his greatest loss - condolence that will be extended to every member of his family.
Lieut. Bates met his death while trench fighting, an enemy bullet passing through his neck as he stood at the post of duty. His end was quick and merciful, for he only lived ten minutes after being wounded.
Sincere sympathy in their very sad bereavement will go out to Major and Mrs. Bates from Morecambe, where they were so well known, and formed so many pleasant associations.
(Morecambe Visitor, 19 May 1915)
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Sergt. G. R. Snowden Wounded.
STRUCK BY SHRAPNEL.
Sergt. G. R. Snowden, of "B" Co., King's Own R.L. Regt., from whom we have received several interesting letters since he went out to the front, has been wounded. He was struck on the head on May 5th by a piece of flying shrapnel, and he is now in the General Hospital, Lincoln, where his progress is reported as satisfactory.
(Morecambe Visitor, 19 May 1915)
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OH! LISTEN TO THE -
Bantams Band.
Amongst the many happy features connected with the stay of the Bantams' Battalion in Morecambe have been the splendid musical evenings held week after week. The members of the band of Bob's Own have co-operated to produce concerts of genuine merit, and their efforts have been eagerly supported by a company of real enthusiasts, not the least energetic being Miss M. H. Brown. Her talents were quickly enlisted on the troops' behalf, and she has a fine record of service to her credit.
"The Song of the 8th" (to the air of "Tipperary"), composed by Mr. Austyn Bryde and Miss Brown, has been one of the many successes, the boys frequently singing it with heartiness and gusto. Here it is: -
Into dear old Morecambe came Bob's Own," the 8th, one day,
Telling tales of Kitchener to cheer them on their way;
Now that they've got settled here they say they want to stay,
But when he gives the order they'll go singing on their way.
We're only little fellows, but we're every bit as keen
As any other Briton to fight for King and Queen;
So send us out to battle and let us prove to you,
That mighty hearts are beating in these lads of five foot two.
We're only little fellows and no doubt it made you smile
When first you saw us marching, but we keep on mile by mile;
So give us your assistance and cheer us on our way.
Our King and Country need us and we're ready to obey.
(Morecambe Visitor, 19 May 1915)
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The Fighting Strain of Old England.
Remarkable Morecambe Record.
Four Brothers Opposing the Enemy.
One on Board the "Goliath."
Remarkable records of many members of one family serving King and Country have come to light since last August, but few parents can point to a better record than Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey, of 14, George-street, Morecambe. They have six sons, four of whom, in the early stages of the present conflict, were demonstrating the fighting strain of old England both on land and sea. The other two boys still go to school.
All the four lads have been right in the thick of it, and Pte. William Dempsey, of the Loyal N. Lancaster Regiment, was taken a prisoner of war last September. Before the declaration he worked at Heysham, being on the First Class Reserve, Manchester Regiment, with which regiment he had served in South Africa and India. He went to France at the beginning of August, and after a period of hard fighting was captured and taken to Germany.
His brother, James, joined the Navy two years ago as a youth. He was trained on H.M.S. "Powerful," afterwards being transferred to the "Royal Arthur," and finally to the "Goliath," which was torpedoed in the Dardanelles last week. Twenty officers and 160 men were saved, and over 500 lives lost.
(Morecambe Visitor, 19 May 1915)
J/27138 Signal Boy James Joseph Dempsey, Royal Navy. H.M.S. "Goliath" Died 13th May 1915. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey, of 14, George Street, Morecambe.
On Board the Goliath
Morecambe Sailor's Fate.
HIS MAJESTY'S SYMPATHY.
Last week we published a photograph of the four Brothers Dempsey, of George-street, Morecambe, each of whom has played his part in the fight against Germany. One brother, James, was on board H.M.S. "Goliath," which was torpedoed in the Dardanelles nearly a fortnight ago. Twenty officers and 160 men were saved, and over 500 lives lost. Hope was entertained that young Dempsey was amongst those rescued, but the official intimation of his death, recently received by the bereaved father, finally extinguished it. In their sad loss Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey will be sincerely condoled with.
HIS MAJESTY'S SYMPATHY.
Writing to the young hero's father, the First Lord of the Admiralty says:
"The King commands me to assure you of the true sympathy of his Majesty and the Queen in your sorrow.
W. S. CHURCHILL."
(Morecambe Visitor, 26 May 1915)
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FROM THE DESK TO THE GUN!
Mr. S.H. Evans, clerk in the accountant's department at the Visitor Office, bade good-bye to his friends yesterday. He has joined the County Palatine Royal Field Artillery. Mr. Evans came to Morecambe from Nottingham some twelve months ago, and proved himself a very capable member of the staff. Gunner S. H. Evans, the best of luck!
(Morecambe Visitor, 26 May 1915)
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27096 Private Richard Stanley Hutton, Royal Army Medical Corps. Died 16th June 1915, aged 22. Son of Richard Robinson Hutton and Agnes Mary Hutton, of 45, Regent Road, Morecambe.
Drowned Whilst Bathing.
Tragic End of a Morecambe Soldier.
COMRADE'S GALLANT ATTEMPT AT RESCUE.
News was received on Thursday of the death of Pte. Stanley Hutton, of Regent-road, Morecambe, as the result of a bathing accident in Ireland. Pte. Hutton had been a member of the St. John Ambulance Morecambe Division for several years, and left for service on the war breaking out. He was sent to hospital at Athlone. This is the first death or casualty reported amongst the Ambulance men from Morecambe since they left for active service.
Writing from the Military Hospital, Athlone, to Mr. and Mrs. Hutton and family, Regent Road. Bombardier E. Lymn, who injured his hand in a gallant attempt to effect a rescue, says:
"It is my sad duty to write you respecting poor Stanley. We were both out bathing together yesterday (June 16th), when he met with the terrible mishap. It was off Carrberry Island, Loch Rae, where we were bathing, and about 75 yards away were the rocks, towards which we commenced to swim. I considered the distance too much for Stanley, and I suggested I should swim back for a boat. When half way on the return journey I heard a splash, and I at once noticed him coming to meet me. Shortly afterwards I saw him throw up his arms and I knew he was in difficulties. At once I dived from the boat and caught him under the arm, trying hard to get him towards the shore. He was, however, very quiet, and appeared to be unconscious. I kept him up for two or three minutes and shouted for help, but I could not hold out long enough, as I was swallowing water very much. A second time I dived, and I just felt my foot touch him, but was unable to bring him to the surface.
"After a while I got assistance, and Stanley was eventually brought to the shore, where artificial respiration was unsuccessfully tried.
"I can only say how sorry I am for you all, and I hope God will bless and comfort you in this hour of great trial. I trust you will accept my keenest sympathy."
(Morecambe Visitor, 23 June 1915)
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HEAVY SHRAPNEL FIRE,
Morecambe Man Struck on the Head.
Pte. John Douglas, of Pedder-street, Morecambe, has been wounded in the head. He is a married man, and as a boy worked for Mr. George Standen. Describing his injuries, in a letter to his mother, he says: -
"I have been wounded in the head by shrapnel, but it is nothing to worry about. It was about half-past eleven on Monday night when I was hit. We were building a fire trench with sand bags, when the enemy shelled us heavily. It continued all night, but the job had to be finished before daylight. Eventually, the enemy managed to drop a big one amongst us, killing one poor fellow, and wounding nine others.
"At present, I am in hospital in France, and I expect being sent down to the base."
(Morecambe Visitor, 9 June 1915)
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MORECAMBE CHUMS FALL IN ACTION.
Miraculous Escape from Death.
SHOT THROUGH THE FACE.
Pte. Jack Woodhouse, son of Walter Woodhouse, of Euston-grove, Morecambe, has had one of the most miraculous escapes from death it is possible to imagine. He is a member of the 5th King's Own (Territorials), and on May 5th, whilst fighting in the trenches at Ypres, he was struck in the face by a piece of flying shrapnel. It entered the face just in front of the left ear, passing clean through and out on the other side. Medical men agree that it is remarkable to find Pte. Woodhouse alive to tell the tale, for if the piece of steel had deviated from its course by a hair's breadth shocking injuries, and more probably death, would have resulted. As it is, he is practically sound again, having been released from the Southend Naval Hospital successfully cured.
Pte. Woodhouse was formerly an assistant in Mr. Anderton's boot stores, going out to France with the first contingent of Territorials. He has, therefore, been through some of the fiercest engagements of the campaign, and, singular to relate, he was destined to experience further shell fire even on reaching England. Zeppelins have twice raided Southend-on-Sea during the last few months, and on both occasions Pte. Woodhouse was there in hospital, near to which, it will be remembered, the enemy's explosives were perilously dropped.
The day following Pte. Woodhouse's injury, his chum, Pte. Toulmin, fell wounded in the leg. He was taken to base hospital and later to Epsom. Formerly Pte. Toulmin worked for Mr. Blakeborough, confectioner, Queen-square.
(Morecambe Visitor, 9 June 1915)
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THE FIGHTING BRAYSHAWS
Two Wounded and One Missing.
A Remarkable Record.
One of the most remarkable records of patriotic service held by a Morecambe family is that held by Mr. and Mrs. John Brayshaw, of Hampton-road, who have five sons and eight nephews serving with the colours.
News, however, has come to hand that Corporal C. C. Brayshaw is missing, not having been heard of since the fighting at St. Julien on May 9th. He was a member of the 5th Battalion of the King's Own. His brother, Private John Brayshaw, of the 2nd Manchester Regiment, is also out of action; he was wounded on May 7th at Hill 60.
The third brother, Corp. T. Brayshaw, also of the 5th King's Own, was shot in the arm and thigh at St. Julien, on April 23rd.
Two yet remain doing splendid service. Stoker Frank Brayshaw, of H.M.S. "London," and Pte. A. Brayshaw, of the 5th King's Own.
(Morecambe Visitor, 16 June 1915)
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Morecambe Soldier Woun
See 24 February 1915
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(Morecambe Visitor, 2 September 1914)
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Morecambe Ambulance Men Depart
To Assist with Wounded.
On Monday night ten members of the Morecambe Ambulance Division - two corporals and eight privates - left Morecambe for Ireland to assist in tending the wounded.
Yesterday a telegram was received, asking for seven more to be sent at once to Colchester and four are leaving to-day in response to this, whilst two more may follow to-morrow. The names of the men and their destinations are: - Corpl. Orchard and Corpl. Norman (Cork); Pte. Riley and Pte. Barnes (Omagh); Pte. Perkin, Pte. Hutton, Pte. Jackson, and Pte. G. Woodhouse (Athlone); Pte. Houghton (Grey Point, Belfast); Pte. T. Woodhouse (Ballincollig, Cork); Pte. Harwood, Pte. Bishop, Pte. Dickinson, and Pte. Smith (Colchester).
(Morecambe Visitor, 23 September 1914)
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5921 Lance Corporal Samuel Grant, 3rd Worcestershire Regiment. Missing, presumed killed, on 20th October 1914. Husband of Mrs. Grant, of 26, Queen's-square, Morecambe.
See 27 October 1915
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ROLL OF HONOUR - Men who are serving
MORECAMBE AND HEYSHAM.
Royal Flying Corps. - Geo. N. Whiteside.
Welsh Fusiliers. - Lieut. C. Gorton.
London Fusiliers. - Pte. G. Jackson.
R. M. L. I. - Pte. Edwd. Austin.
2nd Suffolk Regiment. - Pte. Hy. Harley.
East Kent Regiment. - Pte. W. V. Darbyshire.
Berkshire Regiment. - Pte. R. L. Walsh.
South Wales Borderers. - Pte. W. H. Harling.
3rd Worcestershire. - Pte. S. Grant.
10th Middlesex. - Pte. H. Gerrard.
Yorkshire L.I. - Ptes. F. Hodgson and R. Gaughan.
16th West Yorks. - Pte. H. Lobley.
King's Royal Rifles. - Pte. J. Livesey (returned home wounded), Pte. L. Alderson.
4th Irish Dragoons. - Trooper N. H. Bell.
East Lancashire Engineers. - Pte. J. W. Wilsdon.
10th West Riding Regiment. - Pte. C. Harwood.
Lanarkshire Yeomanry. - Trooper H. Newton.
South African Rifles. - Pte. E. Roberts.
6th West York. - Pte. N. Lamb.
4th Dragoons. - Trooper R. H. Stuttard.
King's Liverpool Regiment. - Sergt. A. J. Ellis.
R.G.A. - Gunners W. Allan (Malta), J. R. Norton.
Canadian Field Artillery. - Gunner J. E. Dymock.
Malay States Rifles. - Pte. T. Kitching.
Edmonton Rifles. - Pte. J. Royle.
Cheshire Regiment. - Ptes. C. Kinnett and T. W. Beck.
6th Dragoons. - Trooper N. Unsworth.
2nd Dragoon Guards. - Sergt. F. Booth, Troopers F. Siddle, Wm. Hy. Cawsey, Frank Wilde, Thos. McKean, W. Farrar, H. Hoole, H. Warbrick, T. W. S. Pyrah, A. E. Summer, E. Reidy, and J. Hall.
18th Hussars. - Troopers P. Collingwood and E. J. Airey.
16th Lancers. - Troopers J. Bland, F. W. Dibble, and D. Hadwen.
Army Pay Corps. - H. E. Bath, D. Follis.
Gordon Highlanders. - Ptes. H. Radcliffe, S. Farrow, E. Wilkinson.
R. A. M. C. - Ptes. T. B. Renwick, M. Leman, W. High.
R.F.A. - Gunners H. Garnett, J. Jackson, A. Collins, T. Thornton, H. Day.
Manchester Regiment. - Ptes. J. Brayshaw, B. Atkinson, C. O'Brien.
Westmorland and Cumberland Yeomanry. - Troopers N. T. Wilcock, J. W. Gardner, C. Gibson.
9th Yorkshires. - Pte. R. Stephenson.
Shropshire Light Infantry. - H. Hartley, T. B. Walmsley, A. Haythornthwaite, J. Southward, R. Braithwaite, S. Grant.
Royal Warwicks. - H. Batty, J. Dinsdale, F. Titeridge, W. Higham, S. Draper, H. Ford, G. H. Wilsdon, G. E. Walker, L. H. Rawnsley, C. Sherburn, A. W. Johns.
Army Ordnance Corps. - G. W. Shaw, E. Pancott, B. Parsons, W. E. Withers, C. Chadwick, S. Chadwick.
Royal Fusiliers. - A. Browning, V. H. Whitehead, F. Lambert, R. Casson, J. Clarke, A. Bond, H. Shaw, J. Brown, A. Haley, A. Unsworth, G. C. Smith.
Royal Engineers. - C. H. Miller, J. B. Miller, F. R. Gwyn-Richardson, W. O. E. C. Evans, R. Burgess, G. Stuart, W. Burns, T. Long, H. Brook, G. Rowe, T. Barlow, J. Hambley. H. H. Riley, A. Newbold.
Border Regiment. - S. Hall, M. Hall, F. Jones, R. Herou, A. McMillan, J. Salisbury, J. Fryers, R. Beattie, J. Ryan.
Seaforth Highlanders. - G. Wearing, G. Strickland, J. Condon, H. Kelly, R. Angus, J. Seddon, A. Lofthouse, J. Willshaw, B. O'Hare, E. Muston, S. B. Greenall, O' O'Hare, R. Harmer, L. Lewis, A. Balderston, G. H. Sumner, H. Jolleys, J. E. Richards.
Army Service Corps. - J. Bernard Malking, George Pearson, Harold Lennon, Leonard Sykes, William Turner, Wm. Henry Slatter, Edward Henman, Jack Turner, Rd. Cornthwaite, David Woodward, Jno. Parrington, David Bland, N. Preston, M. Corless, Jas. Parrington, Wm. Lloyd, Geo. Grinrod, E. C. Thrupp, A. Wilson, Chas. B. Wilson, Matthew Ward, T. Ward, C. Hutchinson, Simon Clark, Wm. Roberts, Warden Gilchrist, A. Yerburgh, R. Lovebond, G. Lovebond, L. Dawson, C. Blake, R. Broughton, F. R. Cowen, P. Daniels, Jas. Dempsey, John Dempsey, T. Dent, R. Dixon, W. Hayton, H. Hodgson, T. Hodgson, A. Kilgour, T. Moran, G. Roper, A. Roper, F. Brayshaw, H. Holding, A. Allan, G. H. Lee, W. L. Robinson, F. Udall, A. Bolton, J. S. Smith, J. Wightman, G. A. Hudson, S. W. Morris, B. Wheeldon, C. E. Dines, E. Maltby.
King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment.
3rd Battalion. - Ptes. G. Austin (killed in action), H. Booth, A. Rushton.
4th Battalion. - Col.-Sergt. W. Walker.
Kitchener Battalion. - H. Booth, C. Dalton, J. Peel, E. Hibbert, G. Miller, J. A. Cook, F. C. Dixon, T. Muldon, G. Stewart, J. Swales, Wm. Armistead, F. Gough, Jno. Woodhouse, Jas. Woodhouse, T. H. Davies, R. Williams, L. Hannah, R. Smith, F. Roberts, W. Dyke, Jos. Perry, D. G. O. Hepworth, J. E. Reeves, R. Salt, H. Bradshaw, J. Jones, H. Asquith, R. Boyd, Jas. Jennings, Wm. Wilson, J. Theobald, Jos. Markin, W. Atkinson, G. D. Jones, Albert E. Dickinson, H. J. Huddleston.
5th (Imperial Service) Battalion. - Major J. H. Bates, Capt. W. O. Wright, Lieut. H. Coupland, Lieut. and Quartermaster Hodgkinson, Colour-Sergt. E. Greenwood, Sergt. G. F. Dixon, Sergt. H. Gill, Sergt. G. R. Snowden, Lance-Sergt. T. Ellison, Corpl. J. Richardson, Corpl. W. Parr, Lance-Corpl. A. E. Barber, Lance-Corpl. J. W. Carter, Lance-Corpl. T. W. Brayshaw, Lance-Corpl. Bindloss, Lance-Corpl. Harry Wright, Lance-Corpl. H. Holmes, Lance-Corpl. R. S. Brockbank, Privates A. E. Airey, T. Airey, F. Bird, A. Brayshaw, C. Brayshaw, G. Cooper, L. A. Dixon, W. H. Dixon, P. A. Hancock, S. Houghton, W. E. Hoyle, J. Janson, W. P. Jackson, R. Mansfield, T. McCormack, J. McTigue, E. Moran, W. H. Osborne, H. Parkinson, T. Siddle, R. Ralph, G. Hillman, A. Sterland, G. Timperley, J. Toulmin, H. Verden, Reg. Vere Whitehead, H. E. Waite, W. Walls, J. Willacy, J. Woodhouse, W. Worby, H. Bibby, F. Brear, C. Cotton, J. Newboult, P. Redhead, F. Waddington, A. E. Helme, G. Downham, J. Mabbs, H. N. Thacker, G. E. Worden, J. Douglas, O. Proctor, C. N. Holmes, A. Robinson, C. Roscoe, C. Robinson, A. Mogg, R. Yates, W. H. Allen, J. Nixon, J. H. Wren, H. Boustead, H. Lapworth, Wilfrid Thompson, Thos. Holding, T. Timperley.
5th (Reserve) Battalion. - Major B. W. Hogarth, Lieut. S. T. Scott, Privates P. H. Atkin, F. Ashworth, J. Armistead, A. V. Ashton, Geo. Anderton, W. A. Armistead, H. Armistead, W. Armistead, P. Armistead, J. Armitage, J. Berry, Geo. Hodgson Ball, E. Bell, E. G. Baker, W. Brayshaw, J. H. Battersby, T. Brown, W. Baxter, F. Brooks, H. Briggs, R. Bartholomew, C. E. Bradley, J. Blacow, A. Birchall, H. T. Barker, F. Brayshaw, H. Bell, A. Baron, J. W. Barrow, L. Boothroyd, R. E. Baynes, L. Bellott, W. Bartholomew, W. Bunting, T. Blacow, G. Baynes, James Henry Casson, F. Clarke, M. Clarke, F. Cantrill, C. Collier, H. Clarke, J. Curwen, J. Casson, J. S. Clark, C. Dunn, J. Dodgson, A. Downham, H. Dugdale, R. Dugdale, J. Dodgson, T. Edmondson, W. Elkin, F. Escolme, W. Escolme, W. French, W. H. Freeman, G. W. Fish, W. Fleetwood, H. Fearnly, P. S. Greenwood, H. Galloway, J. Groves, H. Gerrard, G. Gerrard, W. Gerrard, F. Gorst, H. Gorst, J. R. Griffiths, F. Gibson, H. Geldert, L. Green, A. Grey, J. A. Halmes, M. Hodgson, A. Hodgson, Wilf Hodgson, F. H. Horner, E. Hayton, F. Holgate, Wm. Hall, A. E. Harrison, E. Hadwin, A. Hadwin, A. J. Hadwin, Holmes, H. Hillman, T. Hepworth, L. Headlands, A. Haley, H. Hodson, W. Hodgson, J. Harrison, T. Heath, Ed. Heath, B. Hilton, T. Hadath , Rd. Holme, John Hodge, T. Isaacs, E. Jackson, J.Jackson, A. Johnson, G. Kirkby, Wm. G. Kellett, H. C. Lund, R. Lee, G. Locock,J. Longmire, F. Lupton, D. Lee, F. Lee, O. Lamb, J. Marshall, A. Moore, Wm. Mortimer, R. Mason, N. Meadowcroft, C. Milnes, T. Masters, J. Mayor, J. McMeeking, B. McMeeking, W. Newton, C. G. Norton, L. V. Nicholson, M. Newton, J' O'Brien, R. Prosser, H. Parker, J. H. Procter, A. E. Procter, Jas. Parkinson, B. Parrington, W. Petty, H. Rawes, J. P. Riley, W. Ross, H. B. Roper, T. Rawson, J. Rawson, W. A. Sankey, N. Sands, T. Swain, J. Swain, C. Simmons, J. Swain, W. B. Slater, A. L. Slater, J. Steel, J. Swaites, J. W. Scott, A. Swindlehurst, J. Townley, J. Thornton, F. Tory, H. Threlfall, H. Taylor, F. Thompson, J. Travis, J. Threlfall, L. Woodhouse, R. Whinray, J. Woodhouse, Wm. Woodhouse, F. Woodward, E. Whitaker, C. Williams, T. Woodhouse, H. Wilkinson, C. Whitehead, D. Woodhouse, P. E. Wilcock, H. S. Webster, W. Waugh, T. C. Weatherill, T. Wigglesworth, F. Woodward, J. Willacy, J. Walsden, W. Whitehead, H. Whitfield, J. Latham, J. Haythornthwaite, R. Cookson, J. W. Nellis, J. W. Bradley, J. Gill, T. Lawrance, O. Hodgson, A. Curwen, J. Parr, P. Parr, W. S. Holt, R. Birch, G. Moran, A. Clarke, A. Barton, W. Haywood, E. H. Wilkinson, D. R. Gardner, L. J. Haberlin, J. Tomlinson, J. H. Dennison, T. Moore, G. Bond, H. Stevenson, T. E. Richardson, G. Brazier, J. Hogge, W. A. Meredith, A. Hadwen, F. S. Oxley, G. Lamb, J. Jackson, K. S. Bracewell, H. C. C. Wells, W. Clarke, A. H. Sutcliffe.
AMBULANCE DIVISION
8th Field Ambulance. - Pte. G. Douthwaite.
At Various Hospitals. - Corpls. H. R. Orchard and E. H. Norman, Ptes. A. Barnes, f. W. Riley, G. Woodhouse, R. S. Hetton, J. R. Jackson, H. Perkis, H. Houghton, T. Woodhouse, R. Harwood, F. Bishop, P. Dickinson, A. Smith, G. Dixon, G. Brown, A. Waltho, M. Hatfield, H. Tuner, N. Hasker, J. Titterington.
(Lancaster Guardian, 19 December 1914)
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Naval Captain's Thanks.
To Central School Pupil.
An instance of the appreciation with which the men on active service receives gifts of articles of warm clothing knitted for them is afforded in a letter which has been received by Miss Ina Dugdale, of Euston-road, Morecambe, a pupil at the Central Girls' School. Miss Dugdale has knitted several woollen articles for the sailors, and Capt. George Borrett, of H.M.S. Warrior, has written her the following letter, under date, December 20th: -
"Dear Ina, - Thank you very much for the nice warm present you sent for my men. We are all so grateful for the way everyone at home is working for us, and you may be sure your work will be of use to your country as a warm sailor is worth two cold ones when it comes to fighting. A Merry Xmas to all the girls at your school. - From yours very sincerely,
GEORGE BORRETT, Captain."
(Morecambe Visitor, 30 December 1914) en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Borrett
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10258 Lance Corporal Archibald 'Archie' Holden, 2nd King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Died 9th February 1915, aged 18. Son of John and Ellen Holden, of 12, Osborne Road, Morecambe.
HOLDEN. - Died in France, on the 9th Feb., Lance-Corpl. Archie Holden, aged 18, 2nd Bn. The King's Own Royal Lancaster Regt. "He gave his life for his country." - Father, Sister, and Brother.
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On Sunday news was received by ex-Colour-Sergeant-Instructor Holden of the death of his son, Lance-Corporal Archibald Holden, a promising young soldier only 18 years of age.
Lance-Corporal Holden was serving with the 2nd Battalion, the King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment which was stationed at Barrackpore, near Calcutta, India, at the time of the outbreak of war.
In November last the Regiment received orders to proceed to the Front and embarked along with 70,000 Indian troops, in 81 transports.
They were escorted by French and British Gunboats from India, the Indian troops, as is well known, disembarking at Marseilles.
The Royal Lancasters came on to England, and were located at Winchester until January 14th, when they went to France and into the fighting line.
Lance-Corporal Holden has been in the army close upon 5 years, and previous to joining he visited many parts of the world with his father who is a well-known Service man.
The news that he was seriously ill was received from the Chaplain to the forces on February 9th, and on Sunday came the further message that he died on the 9th and was buried on the 10th.
These are the only particulars received up to the time of going to press.
Great sympathy is extended to ex-Colour-Sergeant-Instructor Holden, who is highly esteemed in Morecambe, and his family.
(Morecambe Visitor, 17 February 1915)
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6398 Lance Corporal Joseph Wilson, 3rd Coldstream Guards. Missing, presumed killed, on 25th August 1914, aged 36. Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Wilson, of Coach and Horses Hotel, Penrith; husband of Margaret Wilson, of 19, Old Lancaster Road, Morecambe. A Joseph Wilson is named on the Penrith memorial.
(Morecambe Visitor, 24 February 1915)
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10709 Private Arthur Hamnett, 2nd Duke of Wellington's (West Riding Regiment). Killed in action on 7th March 1915, aged 23. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Hamnett, of 43, South Grove, Morecambe.
The other Morecambe man, whose death is reported, is Private Arthur Hamnett, eldest son of Mr. Hamnett, of 43, South-grove, who carries on business as a greengrocer in Derby-street.
He enlisted at the outbreak of war in the 2nd West Riding (Duke of Wellington's Own) Regiment, and Corp. Davey, in the same regiment, writing to Mr. and Mrs. Hamnett acquainting them of their son's heroic end, said that Hamnett was shot in the head, and he (Corporal Davey), who was by his side, sat with him until he died.
Private Hamnett was one of the best men he had in his section, and he felt his death very keenly.
Just before the young soldier passed away he gave instructions that certain things should be sent to his mother. He was 23 years of age and married, but leaves no children.
The greatest sympathy is felt with Mr. and Mrs. Hamnett in their sad bereavement.
The deceased formerly assisted his father in the business for some time, and since joining the colours he has sent home many touching letters, and his mother was well nigh prostrated with grief when the sad intelligence was received.
Private Hamnett was very courteous and obliging, and immediately after joining the regiment he became very proficient, for he wrote home with pride on one occasion to say he had got four bulls-eyes and two inners.
Strange to sat the last letter from him, dated the 2nd of March, was received on March 7th, the day of his death, in which he referred to the terrible slaughter that was taking place, and at the same time wished his younger brother, Sam, whose birthday was on March 10th, many happy returns of the day.
(Morecambe Visitor, 24 March 1915)
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1655 Private William Walls, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed in action on 8th March 1915, aged 19. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Walls, of Pedder Street, Morecambe.
WALLS. - Killed in action near the Belgian Frontier, on Monday, March 8, 1915, William Walls, aged 19, of the 5th Batt. King's Own, Royal Lancaster Regiment (Territorials); son of Mr. and Mrs. Walls, of Pedder-street and Queen-street, Morecambe.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.
MR. & MRS. WALLS and family desire to thank their many friends for their kind expressions of sympathy in their bereavement by the death of their son, William, at the Front.
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Morecambe "Terrier" Killed.
Pte. Walls Hit by a Sniper's Bullet.
Grave Dug in an Orchard.
LOCAL LADS IN THE TRENCHES.
The news of the first casualty amongst the 5th King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment (Territorials), who recently went from Sevenoaks to France, was conveyed in a letter from Sergt. H. Gill, of "C" Company, to his mother.
The letter is dated March 9th, from France, and in it Sergt. Gill says: -
"I am still keeping well and I hope all at home will continue to keep in good health. We have now been into Belgium. Greenwood, myself, and three of my Company officers went into the trenches on Friday night, and stayed there until Saturday night. We had a taste of both German rifle fire and artillery fire. Their rifle fire is not up to much, but their artillery don't half give you what for. Their shells make a terrible hole when they explode and throw stones and mud up in the air.
WHOLE COMPANY IN THE TRENCHES.
We came out on Saturday night until Monday night. We passed through some small villages in Belgium on our way to the firing line, and it is a very sorrowful sight to see. The square has some big holes in the road where the German shells have dropped, and quite a lot of houses are completely demolished by the German artillery. We also saw a hospital which the Germans had shelled on Friday morning, and it was a complete wreck and several wounded English soldiers were killed.
"The Belgian people have to leave the town during the day while the place is being shelled, and they return after dark to sleep. I think they are all leaving now, because the Germans seem determined to completely destroy the place. Most of the Belgians in the place were removing all their furniture out of their homes this morning (Tuesday)."
"The people of the house where we slept on Monday night were leaving their home this morning, and it made us feel sorry for them to see mother and daughter in tears.
HOW PRIVATE WALLS DIED.
"We have also had the bad luck to lose one of the Morecambe boys yesterday (Monday). This was William Walls, son of Mr. Walls, the sugar boiler of Queen-street. The poor lad was shot by a German sniper about 7 on Monday morning, and he was buried at night about two miles from the firing line in Belgium. He was in my section, and I stopped behind to see him buried. The grave was dug in an orchard adjoining a farm house, and the burial service was read over the grave in the light of only a small electric torch, and a very weird service it was.
"We came back from the trenches covered all over with mud, and it is a sight to see the fields that ought to be getting prepared for sowing grain, trampled into a mudpool by the troops passing to and from the firing line. The Germans are quite a tricky sort of people, and at night they are continually sniping, throwing up flare lights to see what we are doing.
SHELLS DROPPING TEN YARDS AWAY.
"Yesterday, while we were in the trenches our artillery shelled the German trenches and they did some good work. The Germans then shelled us with shrapnel, but they did not hit our trench once, although some came as near as ten yards from the trench. You must not worry about me, I shall do my best to take care of myself, and hope (God willing) to be spared. The people in England cannot realise what an awful war this is. It is horrible, and I for one shall be glad when it is over and we are all safe back in England. Please give my best respects to all my friends in Morecambe."
Pte. Walls joined the Morecambe Company of the Territorials some months before the outbreak of war, and was called up for active service early in August along with the rest of the company. He was well known and much liked in Morecambe, and to his family messages of sympathy and regret have poured in.
(Morecambe Visitor, 17 March 1915)
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3316 Private Albert Mogg, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed in action on 12th March 1915, aged 17. Son of Henry and Annabella Mogg, of 19, Tunstall Street, Morecambe.
Private Albert Mogg, who joined the Morecambe Territorial Company on September 3rd and was killed in action on March 12th. It is a rather strange coincidence that Pte. Mogg's father, who was formerly a Corporation employee and who also enlisted in September and has already seen service in the firing line, was at home, owing to wounds, when the news came to hand. He is in the 2nd Welsh Regiment, which has earned distinction in the field and has been twice wounded. Pte. Mogg, senior, has previously been in the regular army. He was with the 39th Regiment, 1st Dorsets, and later transferred to the 5th Dragoons, and served in Egypt. He had completed his time, but volunteered for active service on September 2nd, the day before his son enlisted, and joined the Welsh Regiment.
On the second occasion on which he was wounded he had a very narrow escape, a rifle bullet passing through the top of his cap, and inflicting a flesh wound on the head.
CAPTAIN'S TRIBUTE TO PRIVATE MOGG'S DEVOTION TO DUTY.
A fine tribute has been paid to the manner in which the late Pte. A. Mogg conducted himself in the army by the officer commanding his company. Writing to Mrs. Mogg, who is living at Tunstall House, Edward-street, Captain F. Eaves says: -
I am commanded by Lt. Col. the Rt. Hon. Lord Richard Cavendish, Officer Comdg. the 5th King's Own, to express to you his sincere sympathy in the loss of your son Pte. A. Mogg, who (as you will no doubt have already been informed by the War Office), was killed in action on the 12th inst.
"As officer commanding the Company to which your son belonged, I can only speak with the greatest gratitude and admiration of his devotion to duty, and can assure you that the loss of such a good comrade and friend is deeply felt by all ranks of his company.
"Your son's personal belongings will be despatched to you in due course."
(Morecambe Visitor, 24 March 1915)
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(Morecambe Visitor, 31 March 1915)
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(Morecambe Visitor, 31 March 1915)
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FOUR GALLANT MORECAMBE LADS.
BRAVE WORK UNDER HEAVY FIRE.
It must have been Hell
Major Bates' tribute to the Four Morecambe Lads.
A letter from Major Bates, Second in Command of the 5th King's Own Territorials, bears testimony to the gallant and efficient way in which the regiment is conducting itself and carrying out their duties in the most trying conditions in the trenches.
Major Bates also refers to the incident in which four Morecambe lads distinguished themselves. He says: -
"The occasion was the latter part of last week. You would see we had a big fight, lost a number of men, and got about 10,ooo Germans. That was the occasion. We were not in the thick of it, but if it was any worse than on our little stretch it must have been hell. The guns began to shell thousands of rounds an hour. They can pitch them straight and marvellously accurate, to a few yards.
"Right in the thick of it orders came down the trenches. 'All stretcher bearers out.'
"They were not under rifle fire, but the shelling was awful.
"Out these three Morecambe lads went - Waddington, Greenwood, and Cotton. Brear was also out, but not with this particular party. Their job was to carry wounded down to the dressing station; go back and back again for more, under the hottest shell fire that could be brought to bear on them. Pluck is not the word for it. How they came through it can only be put down to God's good will. They were out for hours and did splendid work. Stanley saw it all. He was in the trench (firing line) immediately behind them. He told me of it and expressed the opinion if these chaps did not get the D.C.M. it was not worth having.
"I was proud of the lads.
"I have seen one of them several times since, but all he will say is, 'He was jolly frightened when he set off, but he got used to it.'
"Stanley also had a rough time. He was shelled for twelve solid hours. To make things more unpleasant our own guns went short and plugged a dozen shells on top of his sandbags before he could stop them by telephone. He lost one man and had another wounded. A couple of feet more would have wiped them all out. They are only lads, but men in pluck. I was talking to their Commanding Officer and he told me they had no fear."
Speaking of the work of the Battalion, he says: -
"It's a rough job, but we are as happy as larks. The good folks at home have no idea of the hardships, not to mention danger, these splendid fellows are undergoing for the benefit of the old country.
"Remember me most kindly to all Morecambe, for they are my friends."
Cyril C. Cotton
Frank Brear
Percy Greenwood
Frank Waddington
((Morecambe Visitor, 31 March 1915)
A Gallant Lad.
Pte. Greenwood, writing to his mother, says: -
"We have at last had a taste of actual warfare. We had two days in the fighting line, and a very busy time we had too.
"We marched to the trenches, got there about 10 p.m., and were under rifle fire before we got there.
"'C' Company and four of us, stretcher bearers, marched in with a certain regiment of regulars and were in for two days. I say we, but I mean all but stretcher bearers. We, the stretcher bearers, were in a farm near the trenches, and near in case of need. Well, we had a quiet night, with a few shots, just to show our fellows were not asleep. Well, about three p.m., our artillery started, and for about two hours the place was like I don't know what, French 75 centimetre guns, our own quick firers, and shrapnel bursting all about.
"About four o'clock there was a call for all stretcher bearers, so Brear, Cotton, Waddington, and myself started out, and my word we did have a time, as the shrapnel was bursting in all directions, and German rifle bullets flying in all directions. Well, we finished carrying the wounded and dead by about 4-30 in the morning, and my word we were tired, as we had to carry all the cases about two miles to the nearest field dressing station. We had two men in 'C' Company killed with rifle bullets.
"Ernest and myself are both well. He was rather surprised when he saw us from the trenches carrying the men off under fire."
((Morecambe Visitor, 31 March 1915)
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9672 Lance Corporal Joseph George Spencer, 1st King's Own Scottish Borderers. Killed in action on 26th April 1915. Son of Mrs. Spencer, of Euston Road, Morecambe.
MORECAMBE MAN KILLED.
Scottish Borderers in the Dardanelles.
News has been received that Lance-Corpl. Joseph Spencer, son of Mrs. Spencer, of Euston-road, Morecambe, has been killed during the landing operations in the Dardanelles. He was a fine type of the British soldier, standing well over six feet, and during his twelve years' service with the Scottish Borderers his character had been exemplary. After the declaration of war the Scottish Borderers were sent to France, where a long period of hard fighting was experienced, the famous regiment suffering heavily, Lance-Corpl. Spencer being amongst the wounded - in the hand. He recovered and later the Borderers were ordered to the Dardanelles, where Lance-Corpl. Spencer met his death. This sad intelligence came as a sad blow to the family and their many friends, and they are to be deeply sympathised with in their painful loss.
(Morecambe Visitor, 26 May 1915)
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Imaginary 'Zeppelins' turn out to be only Passing Clouds.
Unfounded Rumour.
Shortly after nine o'clock on Sunday night Morecambe's serenity was disturbed by the sound of three thrilling blasts of the Corporation siren - the signal announced to be given to warn residents of the approach of hostile aircraft.
People rushed out into the streets to learn that a Zeppelin had been seen. Anxious eyes turned up to the moonlit sky, and much excitement prevailed.
The commotion was based upon information laid by a special constable and a number of soldiers looking across the bay outside the Grand Hotel, who declared they had seen an aeroplane hovering over the bay in the direction of Ulverston.
They watched it so long and became so convinced that it was some "engine of destruction" that the special constable telephoned to the police station that an aeroplane had been seen hovering over the bay in the direction of Ulverston.
This information was then sent to the Corporation gasworks, and the "buzzer" sounded three times in accordance with prior orders issued by the Corporation as the signal of the approach of hostile aircraft.
By this time crowds of people had gathered on the Front, and to make matters more thrilling, buglers paraded nearly every street giving the signal for the Manchester troops to "fall in."
Hurrying and scurrying of troops along the streets and their assembling together naturally created alarm. Lights were extinguished and all sorts of silly prophecies were made. Some joked and others ridiculed the idea that Zeppelins could ever reach this part of Morecambe.
After waiting some time no signs of an aeroplane or Zeppelin could be seen. Telephone enquiries by the Morecambe police at Barrow and Ulverston failed to shed any information on the matter, in fact all round the district nothing at all had been seen or heard.
The crowd then began to regard the rumour as a silly scare. The troops dispersed, and shortly afterwards Morecambe was fast asleep, except those residents whose nerves had naturally been upset by the unfortunate alarm.
It behoves persons who are looking across the bay to be more careful and see that they are quite sure of their vision before giving information to the police. By so doing such scenes as were witnessed on Sunday night will be prevented in the future.
The alarm has its cheerful side, for it is said that at least two of the Morecambe young men of eligible age recruited next morning.
(Morecambe Visitor, 30 April 1915)
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Morecambe Man Wounded.
Private G. Downham, son of Mr. and Mrs. Downham, of Moss-lane, Morecambe, has been wounded in the head, just above the eyes, and has been at the Stationary Hospital at Boulogne nearly a week. "We are pleased to say," says the Chaplain in a letter to his mother, "that he is making satisfactory progress, but it is slow business with such a serious wound."
Mr. and Mrs. Downham have two other sons serving their King and Country.
(Morecambe Visitor, 5 May 1915)
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907 Lance Corporal James William Carter, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). 4th May 1915, aged 23. Son of James Carter, of Clarence Street, Morecambe; husband of Florence Carter.
Lance-Corpl. Carter.
of the 5th King's Own.
News of the death of Lance-Corpl. W. Carter, of the 5th King's Own Rgt.., has been received during the week. He was killed whilst on duty in the trenches on the 4th of May. To his young wife, who lives at Carlston-road, Lancaster, and to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Henry Carter, of Clarence-street, Morecambe, this sad intelligence came as a great blow, and much sympathy is felt for them in their bereavement. Lance-Corpl. Carter was a member of the 5th King's Own Territorial Battalion, and he went to France with the first drafts of men ordered out. Before being mobilised for service he was employed at Messrs. Williamson's, Lancaster, where he was very popular and highly regarded.
Writing to the widow on the 6th of May, Capt. F. Eaves, Officer Commanding "C" Co., says: -
"Dear Mrs. Carter, - Colonel Lord Richard Cavendish desires me to express to you his deepest sympathy in the loss you have sustained by the death of your husband, Lance-Corpl. Carter, who was killed in action on the 4th inst., while on duty in the trenches at Frezenberg. I can assure you that his loss is deeply felt by me and his comrades in the company, and it will be some consolation to you to know that he died like a soldier and a hero. Your son was laid to rest the same night in a soldier's grave by his comrades."
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
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3078 Private George Shuttleworth, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed on 4th May 1915, aged 21. Son of James and Agnes Shuttleworth, of 10, Rose Street, Morecambe.
Pte. Shuttleworth was killed by a bursting shell on the 4th of May, whilst doing duty in the trenches with the 5th King's Own. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Shuttleworth, of Lord-street, Morecambe, to whom we feel sure, deep sympathy will be extended in their sad bereavement. Previous to the war Pte. Shuttleworth worked as an agricultural labourer for Mr. Hargreaves, of Sunderland, and he was held in very high regard by his employer and the family. He joined the King's Own Regiment when the country first began to call for men, and received his early training at Blackpool.
"LAID TO REST IN A SOLDIER'S GRAVE."
This week his father received a letter conveying the sad news from Capt. F. Eaves, C.O. of "C" Co., who wrote as follows, from Ypres: -
"Dear Mr. Shuttleworth, - Colonel Lord Richard Cavendish desires me to express to you his deepest sympathy in the loss you have sustained by the death of your son, Pte. Shuttleworth, who was killed in action on the 4th inst., while on duty in the trenches at Frezenberg. I can assure you that his loss is deeply felt by me and his comrades in the company, and it will be some consolation to you to know that he died like a soldier and a hero. Your son was laid to rest in a soldier's grave by his comrades the same evening."
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
MR. & MRS. SHUTTLEWORTH desire to express their thanks for the many kind expressions of sympathy received in their very sad bereavement.
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
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1032 Private James McTigue, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed on 4th May 1915.
Private McTigue was a member of the 5th King's Own Territorial Regiment, having many years' service in when the great conflict commenced last August. With his colleagues he went out with the first contingent of the King's Own, and from that time up to his death, he was with his regiment in many important engagements.
Prior to August he was employed at Messrs. Ward's, shipbreakers, and was well known and respected in the town. He resided in Sun-street, Morecambe, at which address his widow received the sad intelligence that he had fallen.
HIS LAST LETTER.
A few days prior to being fatally struck by a shell, Pte. McTigue, writing to his wife, said: -
"We are out of the trenches after five days under heavy fire, and you would not think a sparrow could escape death - so terrible is the firing. Six Lancaster men quite recently were blown to pieces by a 'Jack Johnson.' Myself and Jim (stepson) came out unhurt, although we were right in the thick of it, and our losses were heavy. I hope the war will soon be over, and we manage to get home safe and sound, for I should look upon a nice sleep away from the awful noise of the guns as a luxury. Keep your heart up, for with God's help I will return to Morecambe.
DIED LIKE A SOLDIER.
A few days later Mrs. McTigue received the following: -
6/5/'15.
Dear Mrs. McTigue,
Col. Lord Richard Cavendish desires me to express to you his deepest sympathy in the loss you have sustained by the death of your husband, Private McTigue, who was killed in action on the 4th inst., while on duty in the trenches. I can assure you that his loss is deeply felt by me and the remainder of the company, and it will be some consolation to you to know that he died like a soldier and a hero. Your husband was laid to rest the same evening in a soldier's grave behind the trenches.
- I am, your sincerely, F. Eaves, Capt.
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
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"MORECAMBE IS PROUD OF YOU,"
Attack Over Open Country
Pte. George Bell, of the 5th King's Own, was formerly a member of the "Visitor" printing staff. He joined the army after the outbreak of war, and since going out to the theatre of operations he has been in the midst of some of the hottest fighting in the campaign. He writes: -
"By jove! we have gone through it this last week and no mistake, and when the report is published in the papers you will be proud of the 5th Battalion, Unfortunately, we have lost heavily, although a good number of the casualties are only slight wounds. Billy Jones and P. Greenwood have been hit, but both were only slightly wounded. We have been engaged in what the 'old swot' out here term 'the toughest battle yet fought in the war,' and one chap, who went through Neuve Chapelle, said 'the last do was worse even than that memorable affair.'
"To begin at the beginning. We were relived from the trenches a week last Saturday, and went into billet in an asylum, where we landed at 3 on Sunday morning. The enemy then commenced to bombard the town, and the second night it was too hot to stay any longer, so we took to the fields for safety, where we stayed for two days and a night. Twenty-four hours later we got orders to move, and ultimately landed as support to certain attacking regiments. We dug ourselves in on the side of a road, and on the night of the 23rd we got right into 'the soup.' And the 'soup' was hot, too. You may imagine our lads' feelings when the order came to fix bayonets! But they didn't hesitate. The position we had to attack was over open country, and the enemy were holding a strong place on the top of a slope. It was all over in an hour, and our battalion came back about 200 short.
"The following day we went into a park, and on the 27th we had again to go into support. We set off at 4 in the afternoon, and got a couple of miles across the country when the German artillery found us. We hurriedly dug ourselves in, but one 'coal box' found some of our chaps, killing ten and wounding five. It was awful while it lasted, and when the order came saying we were to be relieved every man of us was thankful."
(Morecambe Visitor, 12 May 1915)
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1621 Private Louis Warwick, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed on 8th May 1915, aged 17. Son of George Albert and Annie Jane Warwick, of 29, Connie Street, Openshaw, Manchester.
KILLED IN ACTION,
PTE. L. WARWICK, FORMERLY OF MORECAMBE.
News has been received that Private L. Warwick, of 5th King's Own, was killed at St. Julien during April. He joined the Territorials before war was declared, and went to the front with the first contingent. Pte. Warwick's family now reside in Manchester, but formerly they were residents of Morecambe.
(Morecambe Visitor, 2 June 1915)
"THE DEATH PLAIN"
Morecambe Soldier Killed.
HIS LAST LETTER HOME.
Writing to his mother, who resides at Openshaw, Private Louis Warwick (formerly of Morecambe), a member of the 5th King's Own, who was killed a few days after writing, says: -
"Up to the present I am well, but we have had a hot time in the trenches, losing seventy-two men killed and injured. The danger is worse, however, getting in and out for we have to cross some land called "The death plain." (It sounds a bit unhealthy). To tell the truth I am tired of it all, and the sooner peace is declared the better.
"The other day we were just tackling breakfast, when the Germans sent a shell tearing into the trench. It exploded near to me, wounding three of my mates, and throwing me over with my nose in the frying pan. Needless to say, the breakfast was lost.
"Reuben Bartholomew was wounded in the arm by shrapnel, but it was not severe enough to get him a passage home. Remember me to sister Hilda and kiss the 'kiddies' for me."
(Morecambe Visitor, 23 June 1915)
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Lieutenant Stanley Knight Bates, 1st/5th King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). Killed in action on 9th May 1915, aged 17. Son of Lieutenant Colonel John Henry Bates, T.D., 1st/5th King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment, and Sarah Eleanor Bates, of Fir Bank, Fell Lane, Penrith.
Lieut. S. K. Bates Killed in Action.
News of the death in action of Lieut. Stanley Knight Bates, the 5th King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment, son of Major Bates, of Fir Bank, Fell-lane, Penrith, manager of the Bank of Liverpool at Penrith, and formerly of Morecambe, has occasioned great sorrow. The deceased was an Old Boy of Lancaster Grammar School, being an Ashton House exhibitioner and prefect of the School House. He took keen interest in the work of the O.T.C. from its commencement, obtained his colours in the Rugby team, and was also in the school cricket team. At the outbreak of the war he obtained a commission in the regiment of which his father was the second in command, and crossed with them to France on February 14th. He was a zealous young officer, and it is a touching circumstance that he and another Old Boy of the school, Pte. A. G. Ripper, fell together.
The young officer was but seventeen years of age, and Major Bates, who has nobly given his best in this, our country's sternest trial, will be greatly condoled with in his greatest loss - condolence that will be extended to every member of his family.
Lieut. Bates met his death while trench fighting, an enemy bullet passing through his neck as he stood at the post of duty. His end was quick and merciful, for he only lived ten minutes after being wounded.
Sincere sympathy in their very sad bereavement will go out to Major and Mrs. Bates from Morecambe, where they were so well known, and formed so many pleasant associations.
(Morecambe Visitor, 19 May 1915)
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Sergt. G. R. Snowden Wounded.
STRUCK BY SHRAPNEL.
Sergt. G. R. Snowden, of "B" Co., King's Own R.L. Regt., from whom we have received several interesting letters since he went out to the front, has been wounded. He was struck on the head on May 5th by a piece of flying shrapnel, and he is now in the General Hospital, Lincoln, where his progress is reported as satisfactory.
(Morecambe Visitor, 19 May 1915)
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OH! LISTEN TO THE -
Bantams Band.
Amongst the many happy features connected with the stay of the Bantams' Battalion in Morecambe have been the splendid musical evenings held week after week. The members of the band of Bob's Own have co-operated to produce concerts of genuine merit, and their efforts have been eagerly supported by a company of real enthusiasts, not the least energetic being Miss M. H. Brown. Her talents were quickly enlisted on the troops' behalf, and she has a fine record of service to her credit.
"The Song of the 8th" (to the air of "Tipperary"), composed by Mr. Austyn Bryde and Miss Brown, has been one of the many successes, the boys frequently singing it with heartiness and gusto. Here it is: -
Into dear old Morecambe came Bob's Own," the 8th, one day,
Telling tales of Kitchener to cheer them on their way;
Now that they've got settled here they say they want to stay,
But when he gives the order they'll go singing on their way.
We're only little fellows, but we're every bit as keen
As any other Briton to fight for King and Queen;
So send us out to battle and let us prove to you,
That mighty hearts are beating in these lads of five foot two.
We're only little fellows and no doubt it made you smile
When first you saw us marching, but we keep on mile by mile;
So give us your assistance and cheer us on our way.
Our King and Country need us and we're ready to obey.
(Morecambe Visitor, 19 May 1915)
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The Fighting Strain of Old England.
Remarkable Morecambe Record.
Four Brothers Opposing the Enemy.
One on Board the "Goliath."
Remarkable records of many members of one family serving King and Country have come to light since last August, but few parents can point to a better record than Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey, of 14, George-street, Morecambe. They have six sons, four of whom, in the early stages of the present conflict, were demonstrating the fighting strain of old England both on land and sea. The other two boys still go to school.
All the four lads have been right in the thick of it, and Pte. William Dempsey, of the Loyal N. Lancaster Regiment, was taken a prisoner of war last September. Before the declaration he worked at Heysham, being on the First Class Reserve, Manchester Regiment, with which regiment he had served in South Africa and India. He went to France at the beginning of August, and after a period of hard fighting was captured and taken to Germany.
His brother, James, joined the Navy two years ago as a youth. He was trained on H.M.S. "Powerful," afterwards being transferred to the "Royal Arthur," and finally to the "Goliath," which was torpedoed in the Dardanelles last week. Twenty officers and 160 men were saved, and over 500 lives lost.
(Morecambe Visitor, 19 May 1915)
J/27138 Signal Boy James Joseph Dempsey, Royal Navy. H.M.S. "Goliath" Died 13th May 1915. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey, of 14, George Street, Morecambe.
On Board the Goliath
Morecambe Sailor's Fate.
HIS MAJESTY'S SYMPATHY.
Last week we published a photograph of the four Brothers Dempsey, of George-street, Morecambe, each of whom has played his part in the fight against Germany. One brother, James, was on board H.M.S. "Goliath," which was torpedoed in the Dardanelles nearly a fortnight ago. Twenty officers and 160 men were saved, and over 500 lives lost. Hope was entertained that young Dempsey was amongst those rescued, but the official intimation of his death, recently received by the bereaved father, finally extinguished it. In their sad loss Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey will be sincerely condoled with.
HIS MAJESTY'S SYMPATHY.
Writing to the young hero's father, the First Lord of the Admiralty says:
"The King commands me to assure you of the true sympathy of his Majesty and the Queen in your sorrow.
W. S. CHURCHILL."
(Morecambe Visitor, 26 May 1915)
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FROM THE DESK TO THE GUN!
Mr. S.H. Evans, clerk in the accountant's department at the Visitor Office, bade good-bye to his friends yesterday. He has joined the County Palatine Royal Field Artillery. Mr. Evans came to Morecambe from Nottingham some twelve months ago, and proved himself a very capable member of the staff. Gunner S. H. Evans, the best of luck!
(Morecambe Visitor, 26 May 1915)
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27096 Private Richard Stanley Hutton, Royal Army Medical Corps. Died 16th June 1915, aged 22. Son of Richard Robinson Hutton and Agnes Mary Hutton, of 45, Regent Road, Morecambe.
Drowned Whilst Bathing.
Tragic End of a Morecambe Soldier.
COMRADE'S GALLANT ATTEMPT AT RESCUE.
News was received on Thursday of the death of Pte. Stanley Hutton, of Regent-road, Morecambe, as the result of a bathing accident in Ireland. Pte. Hutton had been a member of the St. John Ambulance Morecambe Division for several years, and left for service on the war breaking out. He was sent to hospital at Athlone. This is the first death or casualty reported amongst the Ambulance men from Morecambe since they left for active service.
Writing from the Military Hospital, Athlone, to Mr. and Mrs. Hutton and family, Regent Road. Bombardier E. Lymn, who injured his hand in a gallant attempt to effect a rescue, says:
"It is my sad duty to write you respecting poor Stanley. We were both out bathing together yesterday (June 16th), when he met with the terrible mishap. It was off Carrberry Island, Loch Rae, where we were bathing, and about 75 yards away were the rocks, towards which we commenced to swim. I considered the distance too much for Stanley, and I suggested I should swim back for a boat. When half way on the return journey I heard a splash, and I at once noticed him coming to meet me. Shortly afterwards I saw him throw up his arms and I knew he was in difficulties. At once I dived from the boat and caught him under the arm, trying hard to get him towards the shore. He was, however, very quiet, and appeared to be unconscious. I kept him up for two or three minutes and shouted for help, but I could not hold out long enough, as I was swallowing water very much. A second time I dived, and I just felt my foot touch him, but was unable to bring him to the surface.
"After a while I got assistance, and Stanley was eventually brought to the shore, where artificial respiration was unsuccessfully tried.
"I can only say how sorry I am for you all, and I hope God will bless and comfort you in this hour of great trial. I trust you will accept my keenest sympathy."
(Morecambe Visitor, 23 June 1915)
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HEAVY SHRAPNEL FIRE,
Morecambe Man Struck on the Head.
Pte. John Douglas, of Pedder-street, Morecambe, has been wounded in the head. He is a married man, and as a boy worked for Mr. George Standen. Describing his injuries, in a letter to his mother, he says: -
"I have been wounded in the head by shrapnel, but it is nothing to worry about. It was about half-past eleven on Monday night when I was hit. We were building a fire trench with sand bags, when the enemy shelled us heavily. It continued all night, but the job had to be finished before daylight. Eventually, the enemy managed to drop a big one amongst us, killing one poor fellow, and wounding nine others.
"At present, I am in hospital in France, and I expect being sent down to the base."
(Morecambe Visitor, 9 June 1915)
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MORECAMBE CHUMS FALL IN ACTION.
Miraculous Escape from Death.
SHOT THROUGH THE FACE.
Pte. Jack Woodhouse, son of Walter Woodhouse, of Euston-grove, Morecambe, has had one of the most miraculous escapes from death it is possible to imagine. He is a member of the 5th King's Own (Territorials), and on May 5th, whilst fighting in the trenches at Ypres, he was struck in the face by a piece of flying shrapnel. It entered the face just in front of the left ear, passing clean through and out on the other side. Medical men agree that it is remarkable to find Pte. Woodhouse alive to tell the tale, for if the piece of steel had deviated from its course by a hair's breadth shocking injuries, and more probably death, would have resulted. As it is, he is practically sound again, having been released from the Southend Naval Hospital successfully cured.
Pte. Woodhouse was formerly an assistant in Mr. Anderton's boot stores, going out to France with the first contingent of Territorials. He has, therefore, been through some of the fiercest engagements of the campaign, and, singular to relate, he was destined to experience further shell fire even on reaching England. Zeppelins have twice raided Southend-on-Sea during the last few months, and on both occasions Pte. Woodhouse was there in hospital, near to which, it will be remembered, the enemy's explosives were perilously dropped.
The day following Pte. Woodhouse's injury, his chum, Pte. Toulmin, fell wounded in the leg. He was taken to base hospital and later to Epsom. Formerly Pte. Toulmin worked for Mr. Blakeborough, confectioner, Queen-square.
(Morecambe Visitor, 9 June 1915)
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THE FIGHTING BRAYSHAWS
Two Wounded and One Missing.
A Remarkable Record.
One of the most remarkable records of patriotic service held by a Morecambe family is that held by Mr. and Mrs. John Brayshaw, of Hampton-road, who have five sons and eight nephews serving with the colours.
News, however, has come to hand that Corporal C. C. Brayshaw is missing, not having been heard of since the fighting at St. Julien on May 9th. He was a member of the 5th Battalion of the King's Own. His brother, Private John Brayshaw, of the 2nd Manchester Regiment, is also out of action; he was wounded on May 7th at Hill 60.
The third brother, Corp. T. Brayshaw, also of the 5th King's Own, was shot in the arm and thigh at St. Julien, on April 23rd.
Two yet remain doing splendid service. Stoker Frank Brayshaw, of H.M.S. "London," and Pte. A. Brayshaw, of the 5th King's Own.
(Morecambe Visitor, 16 June 1915)
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Morecambe Soldier Woun
