Rifleman George Ashmore 204595, 16th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment) attached to Machine Gun Section. In the 1911 he was aged 23, born Church Gresley, a Clay Miner,, son of William 60, coal Miner Hewer, and Elizabeth 62, brother of Alice Ann 19, resident 66 Station St., Castle Gresley. Enlisted on 19 Feb 1916 at Church Gresley. He was a Coal Miner, aged 29 yrs 9 months, resident of Bridge St, Castle Gresley. Height 5ft 8 inches Chest 37-39½ ins. Weight 133lbs. Dark brown hair and had 3 vaccination marks on his left arm. Next of kin was his wife Rebecca. They were married at Burton Register Office in 1914 and had a little daughter, Elsie May, born at Linton in 1915. George had served 234 days in England and died after only 27 days in France. His personal effects were Letters, photos, religious book, purse, mirror, a key, knife and wallet. Died of wounds to abdomen, right thigh and feet on 6 November 1917, aged 29. Buried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot XXI. Row GG. Grave 17. Gravestone reeads “Husband of R Ashmore of Main St, Linton”.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle - Thursday 29 November 1917, page 8:

PRIVATE G. ASHMORE, CASTLE GRESLEY,
DIES OF WOUNDS.

Last week Mrs. Ashmore, of Bridge Street. Castle Gresley, received the sad intimation from the Rev. W. Archer, chaplain, that her husband, Private George Ashmore, 5th Notts and Derby Regiment, has died from wounds on November 6th, at No. 3, Canadian Casualty Clearing Station. B.E.F., France. In the letter dated November 10th. the chaplain stated: ''Your husband died of wounds on November 6th. He came to us so very badly wounded in the legs and body that no care could save him, and he lived only till the next day. We have laid his body in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Flanders, where a cross marks his grave. I know what this must mean to you, but you must be very proud of his brave and loyal devotion to the very end. I hope it will help you a little to know he was cared for at the last." Mrs. Ashmore has also received official notification that her husband died of wounds in the abdomen, right thigh, and feet. Deceased who was 29 years of age, was born at Station Street, Castle Gresley and had spent all his life in this district. For years he worked at Messrs. Mansfield’s works, but for the last two years had been employed at the Netherseal Colliery. He was called up as recently as June 15th, and was drafted out to France on October 12th. He passed in gunnery and bombing, and was attached to the Machine Gun Section. Private Ashmore leaves a widow and one child.

Rifleman Joseph Bagnall C/6521, 18th Battalion, King's Royal Rifle Corps. Born and resident Castle Gresley, Derbyshire, enlisted Burton-On-Trent, Staffordshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 17, born Glass Houghton, Yorkshire, a Pony driver in coal mine, son of John and Emily Bagnall, brother of William H and Charles, resident 26 Bass's Row, Castle Gresley, Derbyshire. Died of wounds 15 September 1916. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 13 A and 13 B.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle - Thursday 28 September 1916, page 8:

CASTLE GRESLEY SOLDIER MISSING.
Rifleman Jos. Bagnall K.R.R.

Although Mr. and Mrs. John Bagnall, of Bass's Row, Castle Gresley, have not yet received any official intimation respecting their son, Rifleman Jos. Bagnall, of the King's Royal Rifles, news has reached the village that he is missing. In a letter to his parents, who also reside at Bass's Row, Private C. Whetton states that Rifleman Bagnall went out at the same time as the late Major Sadd, of Burton, and did not return. He was last seen getting over some trenches. This morning Mr. and Mrs. S. Smith, of the same street, received a similar letter from their son, Private W. Smith, who said that Rifleman Bagnall had been missing since September 16th.

Stoker 1st Class Charles Edward Brown K22673, H.M.S Black Prince, Royal Navy. Served on The Victory II and the Black Prince. Enlisted Church Gresley. Residence Castle Gresley; Conduct V. G. on 31 December 1914, Fair; on 31 December 1915 - had 21 days detention for “use of obscene language”. Naval records state his brother, David, lived at The Elms, Castle Gresley, near Burton-on-Trent, Staffs. In the 1901 census he was the son of Edward and Florence; brothers Frank J, William & Richard. Family in 1911 census at 159 Primrose Hill, Blackwell Alfreton, Notts, Edward Brown 45, widower, Police constable, born 1866 at Montgomery, Llandysill Charles Edward 14, Colliery Labourer Surface; born 3 May 1896 at South Normanton, Derbys; Frank John 13, Butchers Errand Boy; William 12, & Richard 11, born at S.N.; David 4. at Blackwell, Derbys. Killed in action Wednesday 31 May 1916 at the Battle of Jutland when his ship was blown to pieces. Aged 20. No known grave. Commemorated on Portsmouth Naval Memorial, Hampshire. Panel 17.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle - Thursday 15 June 1916, page 8:

GRESLEY SAILOR LOST.
Went Down with the Black Prince.

The news has reached Castle Gresley that Charles Edward Brown, 1st Class Stoker, K 22673, H.M.S. Black Prince. was believed to have been killed in the recent naval engagement in the North Sea. It was conveyed in a communication sent out from the Admiralty to Police-Sergeant E. Brown (father), The Elms, Castle Gresley. From the Right Hon. A. J. Balfour. M.P., Police-Sergeant Brown also received a letter of sympathy from His Majesty and the Queen. Deceased, who was born at South Normanton, Derbyshire, was the eldest son of Police-Sergeant Brown, and was 20 years of age last month. A well-built young man, he was over 6 feet in height. With his father he came to Castle Gresley three years ago, and obtained employment at the Cadley Hill Colliery. A few months prior to the war he enlisted in the Navy. After the usual training he was transferred to the Black Prince, on which he became a first-class stoker. Right from the beginning of the war be had been on duty on this vessel in the North Sea, and throughout the weary months did not obtain any furlough. His father received a letter and photograph from him on the day of the action, saying that he was quite well. Much sympathy is felt for P.S. Brown and family. Before enlisting deceased attended Christ Church, Linton. and his name is on the roll of honour. Yesterday the Rev. E. Baxendell (curate) conducted a memorial service, and said deceased died a hero's death, giving his life for his King and country. Appropriate hymns were sung, and at the close the organist, Miss D. Ord, played the Dead March in " Saul."

Extract from the Burton Daily Mail 12 June 1919:

"He was the eldest son of Police Sgt. Edward Brown of The Elms. Castle Gresley. Born at South Normanton, Yorkshire. After a little experience on the railway he obtained employment at Blackwell Colliery & was a member of the Boys Brigade there. With his father and brothers he came to Castle Gresley and worked on the surface at Cadley Hill Colliery. He enlisted a few months prior to the war. He was well built and over 6 feet in height. He was killed in the battle of Jutland."

Private 50938 7th Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment, Enlisted at Church Gresley. Residence Castle Gresley. He was the son of Ellen [Mrs G] Butler of Chapel St. Castle Gresley. In the 1911 census he was born at Church Gresley, aged 16, s Labourer, resident Chapel St, Castle Gresley, with Ellen Butler, 51, widow, Joseph 29, Arthur 25, Emma 18, Theresa 13, George Henry 3. In the 1901 census he was the 7th child of George, a coal miner hewer & Ellen, siblings Joseph, John, Arthur, Thomas, Mary Emma, Theresa. Died of wounds Friday 8 Nvember 1918 at the 24th General Hospital Etaples, France. Aged 24. Buried in Etaples Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Plot XLIX. Row D. Grave 30.

Extract from Burton Daily Mail 26 November 1918:

“His elbow joint was badly wounded and septic poisoning set in. He was 23 years of age, a miner at the New Pit, Castle Gresley. He was a generous subscriber to the Young Peoples Society of Christian Endeavour & bore a character of uprightness. His memorial service at the Primitive Baptist Church, was also that of Ernest Large and both were referred to as “fine specimens of cheerfulness, good nature & generosity”.”

Corporal George William Clamp 1516 1st/8th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers. Enlisted Salford, Lancs. Born and resident Castle Gresley. Son of John Henry & Mary Ann of Rangemore View, Linton Rd, Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. In the 1911 census he was resident at Linton Rd., Castle Gresley, all children born at Castle Gresley, those resident were John Henry Clamp, 47, Butcher, born 1864 at Swains Park, Leics.; Mary Ann, wife, 43, born 1868 at Stretton en le Fields; eight children Ethel May, 23, born at Castle Gresley; Henry 17, assisting with Business; George William Clamp, 14, born 1897 at Castle Gresley, Assisting with Business; William Thomas 11, Amy Elizabeth 9, Frederick Charles 6, Arthur Cecil 4 and Minnie Stafford 1. Killed in action at Gallipoli Saturday 7 August 1915. Aged 19. No known grave. Commemorated on Helles Memorial, Turkey (including Gallipoli). Panel 59 to 73 or 218 to 219.

Extract from Burton Daily Mail - Thursday 25 November 1915, page 3:

CASTLE CRESLEY MAN MISSING.
CORPORAL C- W CLAMP, LANCASHIRE FUSILIERS,

Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Clamp, of Rangemoor View, Linton Road, Castle Gresley, have received letters from the front saying that their son, 1516 Corporal G. W. Clamp, "B” Company, 18th Battalion, East Lancashire Fusiliers, was missing from the Dardanelles force. Lieut. Arnold Clarke, of this battalion, wrote: “You may have heard by now of the fate of your son, Corpl. Clamp, who is reported missing from August 6th. We charged a Turkish trench, and your son was almost next to me. We took the trench, but had to retire from it. Your son failed to answer the roll call. I made careful enquiries, but no one saw him fall, so it is quite likely he is a prisoner. I deeply sympathise with you in your loss, and I may say that he was one of the best non-commissioned officers I had. He was always the first when duty called, and I have never known him fail me. His loss is very much felt here. . . I trust that you will hear good news of him soon. . . . The people who will get to know first will be the General Red Cross Society, who have a prisoner’s bureau branch at Alexandria, and you should write to them.”

Sergt. T. Derbyshire, of the same regiment, also confirms the fact that Corpl. Clamp is missing, and stating that the contents of two parcels to the missing man have been distributed amongst the men.

Giving a digest of the casualties among the East Lancashire Fusiliers the fighting on August 6th. in Gallipoli, the “Manchester Evening News” shows that in a total of 450 in the three battalions, the 8th suffered very heavily. Today Mrs. Clamp stated that parcels sent out her son had been returned to the War Office.

Corpl. Clamp’s home is at Castle Gresley, and he went to the National Schools, Church Gresley. On leaving (sic) school he assisted his father in the butchery business. He was called up at the beginning of the war, and proceeded with his regiment to Egypt in September. Later he was drafted to the Gallipoli Peninsula.

Private George Croucher 23083, 9th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters. Son of William & Emma Croucher of Linton Rd. Castle Gresley. Killed in action Tuesday 26 September 1916 in France. Aged 21. In the 1901 census his father was a Coal Miner Hewer of Chapel St., Castle Gresley, siblings, Fred, Dorothy, [George] Alice, Sarah & Annie. In the 1911 census George he was a Colliery labourer at ground level. No known grave. Commemorated om Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier & Face 10.

Extract from Burton Daily Mail 16 November 1916:

"He was a pit lad, enlisted Feb. 1915; sent to the Dardanelles in Aug. On the evacuation of Gallipoli he was moved to Egypt then to France. He was in trenches at Arras and was moved to the Front in the Somme sector where he was killed in the big advance. He was a member of Christ Church, Gresley, Sunday School and of the Young Men's Bible Class. For 9 years he was organ blower at the church where his family have worshipped for many years. "

Gunner Jack Duncan 1981, “C” Battery, 247 Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. Enlisted at Sheffield, Residence Rotherham. Killed in action Monday 23 October 1916. Aged 23. Son of John and Annie Duncan of 7, London St., Paddington, London. Native of Derbyshire. In the 1911 census he was resident at Station Rd, Castle Gresley, son ofm John Duncan 40, Police Sergeant, born at Willington Quay, Northumberland; Annie, wife, 40, born at Wellingborough, Northamptonshire; Percy John, son, 17, born at Newbold, Derbyshire, House Painter & Decorator. Buried at Sucrerie Military Cemetery, Colincamps, Somme, France. Plot I. Row I. Grave 23.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 23 November 1916:

"Son of the late Police Sgt. John Duncan & Mrs Annie Duncan who is now living in Derby. He was a companion of the late Pte. Selwyn Ordish, attended Christ Church Sunday School & for some time was a member of the church choir."

Private Frederick Robert Ford 24170, 1st Lancashire, Fusiliers formerly 23287 Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment). Killed in action at Gallipoli 10 Nov 1915 Aged 34. In the 1911 he was resident at Mt. Pleasant, Linton, aged 29, a Coal Miner Hewer, born at Burton in 1882 married in 1907 wife Minne E., 21, born 1890 at Gresley; daughters May 3, Julia 2 & Kate under 1 month – all born at Gresley. In the 1901 census he was rsident at 48 Linton Heath, son of Robert Ford, 44, Coal Miner Hewer, born 1857 at Stonham Talbot, Gloucestershire; Sarah, wife, 40, born at Burton on Trent; William 21, Miner Hewer; Fred 19, Colliery Horse Driver Below, born at Burton on Trent; Herbert 17, Colliery Horse Driver; Henry 12, born at Linton; Julia 9; George 7; Ethel 4. Buried in Amzak Cemetery, Suvla, Turkey. Plot II. Row F. Grave 18. Also commemorated on the brass memorial plaque in the Methodist church at Linton Heath.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 16 December 1915 adds:

"He leaves a wife [Mrs M Ford] of Mount Pleasant Castle Gresley, and four children, the eldest of which is 8 years old and the youngest a babe in arms. He was the brother of Pte. G Ford KIA some months ago in France. The family was born in the Netherseal Colliers Rows at Linton Heath but moved to Castle Gresley. They were scholars at Linton Board schools. He worked at Gresley Colliery for 7 years. In Feb. 1914 he enlisted in the Sherwood Foresters but was transferred to the 1st Lancashire Fusiliers. Sailed from Devonport on Aug. 5th. After 2 days in Malta he proceeded to the Dardanelles and has been in the thick of the fighting since. He will be well remembered among S. Derbys. Footballers. Like his brother William he assisted Linton club. Their usual positions being half back. Capt. of Linton Club when they won the Measham Cup. He was also a fancier of some repute and whilst a member of LINTON Homing Society, won the “Racing Pigeon” cup. His brother Harry has joined the Notts & Derby Regiment. Mourned by brothers and sisters of Linton Heath, Donisthorpe & Overseal & by in-laws named Roberts of Mt. Pleasant."

Private 27228 2nd/6th Battalion, Light Trench Mortar Battery, North Staffordshire Regiment. Enlisted Church Gresley June 1916. Killed in action in France 24 September 1917. Aged 32. Son of Mr & Mrs Daniel Gilliver of Chapel St., Castle Gresley. In the 1911 census he was resident at Chapel St., Castle Gresley, aged 27, a Farmer Grazier, born 1884 at Castle Gresley, Derbyshire, all the family born at Castle Gresley, son of Daniel Gilliver, 79, Retired Cowkeeper born 1832; Maria, wife, 70, born 1865; borther to Sarah Ann 35 and Theodosia, 29, both dressmakers. Buried in Dochy Farm New British Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot V. Row A. Grave 4.

Extract from Burton Daily Mail 24 October 1917.

"A single man, he had assisted his aged parents in their farming & coal carting business and was their only son. He was a Sunday School scholar at the Brick Room, Linton and for some years was a member of the Christ Church choir. Of a quiet & retiring disposition, he was greatly esteemed."

Private Mark Haywood 201223 enlisted Februry 1915 in Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment). Son of the late Mark & Martha Haywood of Castle Gresley. Died of wounds to shoulder, arms & legs Sunday 26 May 1918. Aged 32. In the 1901 census he was resident Mt Pleasant, Castle Gresley, head of family Mark Haywood, 52 living on own means, Martha, wife 53, John 22, Martha 16 Mark, 15, Painters Apprentice, born at Castle Gresley, Emma 14, Ethel 12 & Nellie 8. In the 1911 census resident at Mt Pleasant - father now retired, Martha wife, 64, Mark Haywood, 24, son, House painter, born 1887 at Castle Gresley, Derbyshire, Nellie 16. Buried at Pernes British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Plot II. Row C. Grave 48. Also commemorated on the Baptist Memorial Plaque now in Trinity Methodist Chapel at Linton Heath.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 8 June 1918:

"A single man. Only son of Mrs M Haywood of Burton Rd, Mount Pleasant, Castle Gresley. In civil life he worked for Mr A J Swindell, painter & decorator at Linton but was subsequently employed as a fitter at Netherseal colliery. "

From his Army Records - at enlistment he was 5ft 7ins. Chest 36-39. Vision & Physical development -fit. He embarked Southampton 12 October 15 for Rouen and joined his unit in the field on the 18th. During June – July 1916 he suffered from Scabies and Cellulitis but joined the 4th entrenching battalion in the field on 26 July 16. In August 17 he was wounded on two occasions but remained at duty. On 31 July 17 he sustained an injury to his shin when a gun was accidentally fired whilst being cleaned by a man who had joined the company the previous night having received only 3 months training. It struck an iron girder in the roof and the bullet, or splinters from the girder, wounded that man and 4 other men who were in the dugout at the time. He died of wounds to shoulder, arms & legs Sunday 26 May 1918. Aged 32. He had served a total of 3 years 9 days.

Private Joseph Holt 120935, 5th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment). Son of Mary Ann Laban (formerly Holt) of Mount Pleasant Rd., Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent, and the late James Alfred Holt. Born at Linton Heath. In the 1911 census he was resident Mt. Pleasant, stepson of C. G. William James Laban 45, Coal Miner Hewer, Mary Ann 43, born 1871 at Linton; Joseph Holt, stepson, 23 Coal Miner, Filler at Coal face, born at 26 Linton Heath. Died of pneumonia at Louth Thursday 21 November 1918. Aged 31. Buried in Linton (Christ Church Churchyard, Linton, Derbyshire. Special memorial.

Extract from Burton Daily Mail 26 November 1918:

"Whilst living at High Cross Banks he was employed at the Netherseal colliery & played half back for Linton F.C. when they won the Measham cup & medals. The following year he migrated to the Notts. Coalfield working as a miner at the Bentick colliery for several years. "

Extract from his Army Records - Attestation 4 Feb 1916 at Mansfield. Residence Millwood Farm Kirkby in Ashfield. He was single, aged 28y 125 days, 5ft 4ins tall, 36 in chest, 2 vaccination marks on left arm. Occupation Miner (Coal Face). Joseph enlisted at Mansfield on 19th Feb 1916. Next of kin was his mother, Mary Laban, of Mount Pleasant, Castle Gresley. His medical report records:- Height 5ft 4¾ inches. Weight 135 ½ lbs. Chest 37½-40inches. Hair and eyes brown. Complexion fresh. Physical development and eyesight good. 4 vaccination marks on left arm received in infancy & a scar on Rt. Hand 3rd and 4th fingers.

Private Arthur Hudson 201686, 1st/5th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment). Son of Thomas & Sarah Ann Hudson of Bridge St. Castle Gresley. In the 1901 census he was resident Chapel St., Castle Gresley, son of Thomas Hudson, 50, Coal Miner Hewer,; Sarah A. 51, brother of Thomas 21, George 19, William 13, Arthur Hudson, son, 9, born at Castle Gresley, Beatrice, daughter 3 months. In the 1911 census he was resident Chapel St, Castle Gresley, born Sandiacre, Notts, son of Thomas Hudson, Agricultural Labourer, 59 born 1852 at Sutton Coldfield; Sarah Ann, 61, born at Kings Bromley, [5 living children] William 23, Collier Loading at Coal Face; Arthur Hudson, son, Collier Pony driving underground, born 1892 at Castle Gresley; Beatrice Emily, granddaughter, 10 Died on Saturday 1 July 1916. Aged 25. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier & Face 10 C 10 D and 11A

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 14 June 1916:

“He enlisted at Derby & did his training at Grantham. Member of the Gresley Arms Sick & Dividend Club and of the Railway Inn Homing Society at Castle Gresley. He was drafted out to France in March and was in the thick of the fighting for several months before his death. Missing after the battle of the Somme in July 1916. Parents informed in June 1917 that he was presumed killed in action. Educated at Linton school. He worked as a pit boy at Netherseal colliery then was a miner at Cadley Hill colliery. For nearly 3 years he was a member of the Territorials at Gresley. In 1913 he obtained work in the Sandiacre area.”

Rifleman John Insley 43084, 10th Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles formerly 43248 Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment). Born Appleby Magna, Leics. Residence Linton Rd, Castle Gresley, Derbys. 2nd son of John & Ellen Insley of Linton Rd, Brookdale, Castle Gresley. Mourned by brothers & sisters. In the 1901 census he was resident Linton Rd., Castle Gresley, son of John Insley, 45, brick contractor, Ellen, wife 45, Alice 21, John Insley, son, 15, Brickyard labourer, born at Burton in 1886, Walter 13, Nellie 11, Harrington 9 Una 9 months born at Castle Gresley. 1911 John Insley, 54, Brickmaker, born 1857 at Shareston, Leics.; Ellen, wife, 53, born 1858 at Burton, Staffs; Alice 31, Dressmaker; John, son, 25, Colliery Labourer above ground, born 1886 at Appleby, Leicestershire; Nelly 21, Dressmaker; Harry 19, Colliery Labourer above ground; Una 10, School, born at Castle Gresley Killed in action Tuesday 14 August 1917. Aged 32 No known grave. Commemorated on Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 40.

Lance Corporal Ernest Large 41594 10th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment). Birth place Castle Gresley. Residence Church Gresley. Youngest son of George & Eliza Large of Castle Mount, Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. Brother of Charles & Agnes. Uncle of Nellie of Castle Mount. In the 1901 census he was resident at Hill Rd, Castle Gresley, son of George Large, 47, General Farm Labourer, born at Coton; Eliza 44, born at Burton on Trent; William 15, Colliery Horse driver below ground, born at Eggington, Derbys.; George, 13, also Horse driver; Charles 11, Castle Gresley; Ernest Large, son, 5, born 1896 at Castle Gresley; Agnes 1. Enlisted 16 February 1916. Medical 7 April 1916 at Derby E.L. Occupation - Carter. Height 5 feet 3 inches, weight 112 lbs, chest 34 inches expanding by 3½ inches. Physical developement good. Personal Effects – Disc. Letters, Relig. Book, Cross, Wallet, Watch strap & case. Died of wounds (gas) Monday 19 August 1918. Aged 22. Previously wounded. Buried in St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen,Seine-Maritime, France. Section R. Plot III. Row F. Grave 7.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 29 August 1918:

"He enlisted 2½ years ago and was employed by Mr F. Wood of C.G. coal dealer & carter. He was on the Primitive Methodist Church Roll of Honour, High Banks where he worshipped with his family. His memorial service, at Linton, was also that of Ernest Butler and the minister referred to them both as fine specimens of cheerfulness, good nature & generosity & said that they would never forget their sunny disposition especially in the case of Ernest Large."

Private Ernest William Meadows 29135, "F" Company, 1st Battalion, Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment). Enlisted August 1915 at Burton on Trent. Born Swadlincote. Residence Castle Gresley. Missing 1 August 1917 assumed killed in action Tuesday 31 July 1917. Aged 25. Born 16 February 1893 at Railway Terrace, Swadlincote. The 2nd son of Henry Meadows, wagoner, & Mary Jane nee Stanley. Baptised 12 March 1893 at Emmanuel Church, Swadlincote. His older brother Albert was also in the Sherwood Foresters & stationed in N. Ireland. Brother of Charlie, Harry, Sydney & Nellie who remembered buying Harrison's Pomade to send out to him [for fleas & lice] The family had moved to Church Gresley by 1911, then to Burton Rd Castle Gresley. He was very well liked in the area. In the 1911 census he was resident at Burton Rd., Castle Gresley with Henry Meadows, 45, Colliery labourer above ground, born 1866 at Melbourne, Derbys.; Enos, father, 69, Farm Labourer, born 1843 at Melbourne [should be Brook, Rutland]; Mary Jane, wife, 43, born at Stafford; Albert Edward, 19. Brick Yard Labourer, born 1892 at Swadlincote; Ernest Meadows, son, 18, Pipe Loader, born 1893 Swadlincote; Charlie 15, Clay Carrier, born 1896 at Swadlincote; Harry, 10, born 1901 Church Gresley; Sydney 7, School, 1904 Church Gresley. He was injured and buried in the battle of the Somme but was rescued & was in hospital & convalescent home in France for 9 weeks after which he returned to the Western Front & became a patrol leader. Some hours after the battle on 31 July 1917 [The 1st day of the battle of Paschendale] was over he was sent out to bring in the relief party but failed to return. The area was being shelled and it is believed that he was killed by a shell which burst near them. Buried in Hooge Crater Cemetery, Zillebecke, Belgium. Plot 3. Row 1. Grave 4.

Grave visited by 3 generations of his brother, Syd's, family. His gt.gt. grand-nephew placed a wreath of poppies, knitted & crocheted by Ernie's niece & gt niece, on the grave on the 31 July 2017 – the Centenary of his death.

His two cousins, George Stanley Meadows of Newhall, & Gunner T Barker of Lichfield, also died at Passchendaele and are commemorated at the Tyne Cot Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.

Lieutenant Clifford Miller 11/16380, 7th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment. Son of the late Thomas & Matilda Miller of Castle Gresley. Husband of Florence A. L. Miller of Chapel St, Castle Gresley. In the 1911 cesus he was resident at Bridge St, Castle Gresley with his brother Arthur. In the 1901 census he was resident at Crown Inn, Market St., Castle Gresley with his father Thomas Miller, 59, Publican born 1842; Matilda, wife, 50, born 1851 Chaddesdon, Derbys.; Arthur 18, Colly Loader below ground, born at Linton; Robert 12; Clifford Miller, son, 8, born 1893 at Castle Gresley ; also Mary Toon, servant 14. Killed in action in Mesopotamia 25 February 1917. Aged 23. No known grave. Commemorated on Basra Memorial, Iraq. Panel 34.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 16 March 1916.

"He was the husband of Florence & father of two Brother of Arthur, Bob, & Lizzie of Church Gresley & Castle Gresley."

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 16 March 1917:

" Lieut. Clifford Miller, who has just received his commission is the eldest son of the late Mr. Tom Miller who for 16 years was the proprietor of the Crown Inn, High Cross Banks, Castle Gresley. He has 2 brothers & a nephew serving, and another nephew in training. He was a S. Derbys. Pit boy, and a scholar of the Linton Board & Overseal National Schools. From a pony boy at Netherseal Colliery he worked his way up before he was 18 years old, to the position of stallman, and then, desiring a change, he enlisted for the full term of 21 years in the Sherwood Foresters and served for many years in the pay department. In December 1915 he transferred to the R.A.M.C. and in January his new regiment was despatched to the continent."

Private H L Morton 241242, 1st/4th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment. Enlisted at Burton on Trent. Residence Church Gresley, Derbys. Son of Mr. & Mrs Joseph Morton of 18, Bass's Row, Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. In the 1911 census he was resident at 144 Oxford St., Church Gresley, son of Joseph Morton, 42, Sanitary Pipe Fireman, born 1869 at Albert Village; Mari, wife, 40, born 1871 at Swadlincote; Percy Garnet, son 18, pipe yard Labourer; Joseph Stanley 16, Pipe Machine Labourer; Horace Morton, son, 12, School, born 1899 at Church Gresley; Sidney 10, Dorothy 8, Charles William 5, Bertha 3, Albert Edward 1. Killed in action Monday 15 April 1918. Aged 20. Buried in Gezaincourt Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France. Plot II. Row L. Grave 19.

Extract from Burton Daily Mail 15 August 1917 & August 18: Born at Lansdowne Rd. Church Gresley. Enlisted 8 August 1915 Wounded in the L. leg on 28 June 1917. Only back in France 11 days when he was killed. He was employed as a filler at Netherseal Colliery. Mourned by brother & sisters.

Corporal Thomas Selwyn Ordish 15074 9th Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment (Machine Gun Section). Enlisted Ashby de la Zouch. Birth place and residence, Castle Gresley. Son of James & Sarah Frances Ordish of Castle Rd, Castle Gresley. In the 1911 census he was resident Station St, Castle Gresley, son of James Ordish 46, joiner, born at Rosliston in 1865, Sarah Frances,wife, born 1865 Castle Gresley; Thomas Selwyn Ordish, 17, Bricklayer apprentice, born 1894 at Castle Gresley; also Phyllis Ellen Ordish, 5 niece to James, born at Rosliston. In the 1901 census there was also Winifred M, daughter aged 8. Killed in action Friday 14th July 1916 at Fricourt, Mametz Wood having entered the trenches at 12.15 a.m. Aged 22. Buried in Serre Rd Cemetery No. 2, Somme, France. Plot V. Row F. Grave 23. Also commemorated on N wall of N Aisle, of Christ Church there is a marble memorial plaque].

Extract from Burton Daily Mail 21 & 22 December 1916 [photo]: "In the building trade Selwyn was a renowned steeplejack. Killed whilst in charge of his section working his Lewis gun. He was highly regarded by his colonel and had been recommended for a commission. His death was instantaneous, a bullet piercing his heart. Fearless and conscientious he was very popular with everyone. He was formerly a choir boy and scholar at Christ Church, Linton. His parents are highly esteemed."

Private Ernest Smith 1225 5th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment). Born Linton. Residence Castle Gresley. Enlisted in the Regular Army at Swadlincote, 3 May 1910 – a collier- Halls Colliery Co., aged 21 years 4 months. Height 5 ft 4 inches, chest 35½ inches expanding by 2 inches, of good physical development and with good eyesight. He presented for annual training in 1911, 1912 & 1915. He left Southampton for Le Havre on 25 February 1915 and was in trouble “Drunk” on 19 November 1915. He was appointed unpaid L/Cpl in April 1916 but was deprived of his Lance Stripe for “Drunkenness” in June. Missing in the field and presumed to have died Saturday 1 July 1916. Aged 28. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier & Face 10.

Reported as “son of Mr & Mrs S. Smith of 17 Bass's Row, Castle Gresley” He had participated in the battles of Mons & Loos uninjured. Killed at battle of the Somme. A native of Linton Heath. Miner at Netherseal Colliery. [family above] Brother of William and James [below].

Private James Smith 202416 5th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment. Sson of Mr & Mrs S. Smith of 17 Bass's Row, Castle Gresley. Enlisted Burton on Trent. Birth place and residence Castle Gresley. Medically examined on 10 August 1915 – a Collier, height 5 feet 9 inches, weight 130lbs, chest 35-37 inches. Good physical development. Slight defect -flat left foot. Embarked Folkestone for Boulogne 6 March 1917 and joined his unit in the field on 28 March. He was in trouble a couple of times for being absent from parade and once for “Gambling in the barrack room.” He was posted “missing” on 1 July and presumed killed in action Saturday 1 July 1917. Aged 19. [family above]. No known grave. Commemorated on Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 7 & 8.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 15 August 1917.

"3rd son killed in action. He worked on the roads at Netherseal colliery and enlisted at Burton in August 1915 at the early age of 17. The relatives he had living in July 1919 were his father & mother at above address; brothers – Arthur, 32, living at ...cher Hill near Mansfield, Notts; John 19 at family home and hi9s sisters:- Ada Underwood, 38, of Chapel St, Castle Gresley; Annie Bowker, 28, of …. ; Mary Mansfield, 26, of High St, Newhall & Ethel Smith, 23, at family home. "

Brother of William [below] and Ernest [above].

Private Percy William Smith 27372 7th Battalion, The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment. Died Wednesday 8 November 1916. Aged 19. Son of Edward and Laura Jane Smith of Broomhill Cottages, Linton Rd, Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. In the 1911 census he was resident at Federation Villas, Castle Gresley with his father Edward 54, Coal Miner Hewer, Laura Jane 53, Albert 18, Florrie, 16, Percy William 13 born 1897 at Castle Gresley, Leonard 11, Elsie, 9, Arthur 7, William Chadbourne, father in law, 80 Retired Potter, born 1831 at Overseal. [Crossed through were Mary 33, married, born at Mt Pleasant also Annie Sophia 30, married; Edith 28; Ernest 22, Coal miner; & Sylvia 26 - all born at Linton Heath & all married] Buried in Connaught Cemetery, Thiepval, Somme, France. Plot VII. Row C. Grave 9.

Private W Smith 84074 Royal Fusiliers 2/4th Battalion, London Regiment. Enlisted Burton on Trent. Born Castle Gresley. Residence Burton on Trent. Son of Mr & Mrs S. Smith of 17 Bass's Row, Castle Gresley. Family in 1911 census were at 17 Bass's Row father Samuel Smith, Coal Miner Hewer, 50, birthplace Not Known; Sarah Elizabeth, wife, 49, born at Overseal; William, son, 26, Coal Miner Hewer; & Ernest 22, Miner, Loader at Coal Face; born at Linton Ann, 20, Domestic Servant; Mary, 18, Domestic Servant; Ethel 15 –-; James, Farm Labourer, 13; & John 10, School; all born at Castle Gresley. Brother of Ernest and James [above]. Died of wounds to the abdomen Saturday 9 September 1918. Aged 33. Buried in Heily Station Cemetery, Mericourt L'Abbe, Somme, France. Plot VII. Row C. Grave 10.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 19 September 1918:

"A miner at Netherseal colliery he joined up in Sept 1914 in Kings Royal Rifles & was wounded in the back, arms & face after serving 18 months in France."

[Listed as TEBBETT in CWGC records] Private George Tebbett 55072 15th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers. Son of John Thomas & Sarah Ann Tebbett In the 1911 census he was resident at 155 Regent St, Church Gresley, son of John Thomas, 35, Coal Miner Timberer, Sarah Ann 34, Florence May 14, George 12 born 1899 at Bolsover, William 9, Joseph, 6, Harriet 4. Ernest 1. Killed in action Monday 30 September 1918. Aged 19. Buried in Ramicourt British Cemetery, Aisne, France. Row C. Grave 4. Also listed on the Memorial Plaque in Trinity Methodist Chapel at Linton Heath

Extract from Burton Daily Mail 4 February 1919:

"Eldest son of Mr & Mrs J. T. Tebbett of Ivy House, Burton Rd. Castle Gresley. Miner at Gresley colliery and was drawn in the first ballot there. "

Private [Signaller] John Thomas Toon 25080 1st Battalion, Grenadier Guards. Enlisted at Derby. Born at Mt Pleasant, Derbys. In the 1911 census he was resident at Mt. Pleasant, Castle Gresley, son of Sarah Toon, Head, widow 42, charwoman, John Thomas 16, Carter Sanitary Pipe works. Born at Church Gresley, Edith 13, James Adair father to head, 70. Died Sunday 25 August 1918 [age not listed]. No known grave. Commemorated on Vis-en-Artois Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 3. Also commemorated on Linton Heath Memorial.

Private Thomas Wilkins 1795, 'C' Company, 1st/5th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment). Enlisted at Swadlincote. Birthplace and residence Castle Gresley. Son of Mr W Wilkins of 21, Bass's Row, Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. In the 1911 census he was resident at 80, Princess St. Castle Gresley, son of William 49, Labourer Clayworks, Mary 48, Sarah 21, Thomas Wilkins, son, 19, Labourer Clayworks born at Gresley, Albert 17, Florrie 15, Mary 9. Relatives living at 12 May 1919 were his parents; Brother Albert Edward, 26, at family home . Sisters Sarah Ann Adams, 29, of 9 Grotto Row, Bretby, Florence Eliza Winan, 24, of 5 Bass's Row, Castle Gresley and Mary Jane Wilkins,16, at family home. He was a Labourer, aged 21 years, 5 feet 4 inches tall, with a chest measurement of 35½ inhes expanding by 2½ inches. With good vision and physical development. He was with the Expeditionary Force in France from 1 March 1915. Killed in action 10 April 1915 in Flanders. Aged 23. Buried in Lindenhoek Chalet Military Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium Plot I. Row B. Grave 12.

Extract from Burton Observer and Chronicle 22 April 1915:

"He was the eldest son of Mr & Mrs W. Wilkins of Bass's row Castle Gresley. born at Princess St. On leaving school he worked at Messrs Mansfield, Quarry Bank, Church Gresley. Later worked with his father at the pipeworks in Railway Sidings. Joined Territorial force at the Drill Hall 3 years ago. On the day of his death he formed one of a fatigue party to go to the first line of trenches and it was on his return that he received a bullet in the back. He died shortly afterwards and was buried on the 11th attended by his special friends. His brother Albert is also in the trenches."

Lance Corporal Robert Frettsome Wilson 8697, 205th Company, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry) formerly 29136, Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment). Enlisted Burton on Trent. Birth place Swadlincote. Son of John & Lydia Wilson of Linton Rd, Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. In the 1911 census he was resident at Linton Rd, Castle Gresley, son of John Wilson 50, Colliery Carter Above Ground, Lydia, wife, 41, Robert. Killed in action Thursday 25 October 1917. No known grave. Commemorated on Tyne Cot Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 154 to 159 and 163A.

Extract from Burton Daily Mail 5 December 1917:

"KIA 25 October 1917 Flanders Lived at Swadlincote "

Associatedwith village but not on memorial

Private William Ewart Gladstone Bennett 18050, 4th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers. Brother of Hannah Fawkes of 60 Station St, Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. Died Saturday 1 April 1916. Aged 28. Buried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot V. Row B. Grave 37A.

In the 1911 census he was resident at 60 Station St Castle Gresley with Charles Henson Fawkes, 47, Hannah, wife, 46, Daisy Emmie 10, he was born at Castle Gresley; Jane BENNETT, mother in law, widow, 60, & William C G Bennett, brother, Coal Miner Hewer, 23, both born at Nottingham; Robert Emmit Bennet 20, Coal Mine Labourer underground, born at Bulwell, Notts.

Lance Corporal Herbert Edward Cox 3384, Leicestershire Yeomanry. Enlisted Leicester. Residence Barnes, London. Son of Herbert Edwin Cox of Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. Husband of Anna E. Cox of 103 Riverview Gardens, Barnes, London. Killed in Action Saturday 15 July 1916. Aged 35. In the 1911 census he was born at Castle Gresley, living at Rolleston, Staffs, a Brewers Traveller, wife Anna E., son William Herbert Thomas (aged 3). In the 1901 census he was resident at Chelsea Villa, Linton Rd, aged 44, a Brewers Traveller, born at Shepshed, Leics; Alice E, wife, aged 41. In the 1891 census he was a son Herbert E, aged 10, born at Castle Gresley. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 A. Also commemorated on polished grey granite gravestone, in Christ church on SE corner.

[Listed on Church Gresley but not on Castle Gresley memorial] Gunner Driver Joseph Reginald Fletcher 231626 4th Reserve Brigade, Royal Feld Artillery. Son of Jacob and Sarah Fletcher of 99 Station St., Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent. Died Tuesday 4 January 1921 in United Kingdom. Aged 28. In the 1911 census he was resident 99 Station St., Castle Gresley, son of Jacob Fletcher, 45, Pot Hawker, born at Market Downham (sic - s/b Downham Market), Norfolk; Sarah, wife, 44, born at Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire; Lily 23, at home; Joseph Fletcher, son, 18, Assisting father in business born 1893 at Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire; Arthur, 17, born at Prescote; Mabel 11, born at Heywood & Ethel, 8, born at Albert village. Buried in Church Gresley Cemetery, Derbyshire. Grave 475 (C).

Extract from his Medical History records that he enlisted at Church Gresley on 9 February 1916. Birth place Midway; Age 27 years 7 months; Miner, Height 5ft 8 and ¹/8th inches, weight 146lbs, chest 38-40 inches. Good physical development, with an appendix scar. Fit for service in the field at home and abroad. He was a Repatriated Prisoner of War having been captured 21 March 18 discharged unfit for service on 16 May 1919 having pain in chest, shortness of breath, Double murmur of the apex, Mistral stenosis and regurgitation Some slight pericardial … ? General Condition debilitated 15 May 1919. Discharged 16 May 1919. Para 393 (xvi) King's Regulation Army Order 29 of 1919. Awarded Silver War Badge B206959 2 June 1919.

[Listed on Church Gresley Memorial but not on Castle Gresley or Linton memorials] Private Leonard Roe 241211, 1st/6th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment. Birth place & residence Castle Gresley. Son of George Edward Roe of 5 Bank St., Castle Gresley, Burton on Trent.

In the 1911 census he was resident at 3 Castle Rd, son of George Roe, 38, widower, Collie Stallner Below Ground, born at Yorkslin; Floris, dau, 14, born at Wimblebury, Staffs. Leonard Row, 13, born at Gresley; Lizzie 10, & George 8. all born at Gresley. In the 1901 census he was the son of George 29, Coal Miner Horse Driver below, Sarah 27, Florence 5, Leonard 3 born at Church Gresley, Lizzie 1. Killed in action Saturday 1 July 1916. Aged 18.No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 14 B and 14 C.

Lance Corporal 18194, 6th Battalion, King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. Birthplace Burton on Trent, enlisted at Doncaster. Killed in action Monday 28 August 1916. Aged 40. Son of Sarah and the late Joseph Tilley; husband of Constance Mary Tilley of Linton, Burton on Trent. In the 1911 census he was resident at Linton Post Office with Constance M Tilley 35, Elementary School Teacher, living with mother Elizabeth Patrick. Family in 1901 census resident at Wall Way, Linton, son of Joseph Tilley, 42, Butcher, born at Linton; Sarah Ann 43, born at Manchester; Albert Tilley, son, 17, Butchers Apprentice, born 1874 at Linton, Derbys; Sarah Ann 10; Ernest 9; Joseph 8; Thomas Hy. 4; Leonard Wm 4 months; Servant Gertrude Richardson 14.No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 11 C and 12 A.

Dedicated By The Villagers to the Men Of
Castle Gresley and Linton
Who Laid Down Their Lives In The War For Freedom
1939 - 1945
Greater Love Hath No Man