ACKERMAN

Paul

Private G/424, 6th Battalion, Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died of wounds 29th March 1916. Born and resident Mitcham, enlisted Croydon. Aged 28. Son of Abraham and Annie Ackerman, of Mitcham. Buried in VERMELLES BRITISH CEMETERY. Commonwealth Plot II. Row F. Grave 16.

ADAWAY

G H

No further information currently available

ADLINGTON

David

Private 41857, 5th Sqdn Machine Gun Corps (Cavalry). Died 31/03/1918, aged 23. Son of Mr. D. Adlington, of 1, Abbey Terrace, Christ Church Rd., Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: B. 11. Cemetery: BOVES WEST COMMUNAL CEMETERY.

David was born in Bermondsey in 1895 and his family settled in Merton before the war in about 1910. David’s father was a Tin plate worker and kept a tinsmith’s shop at 98 High Street, Colliers Wood, as shown in the 1913 edition of the Kelly’s directory for Surrey.

David enlisted in London, and his Medal Index Card shows he served in three units: Reserve Regiment of Cavalry 6836, Private 6836 12th Hussars, Private 41857 Machine Gun Corps Cavalry. David died of wounds and his unit was operating in the St.Quentin sector before his death. It was here that the enemy had launched a major offensive in the Spring of 1918.

There is a separate memorial in Folkstone, dedicated to the men of the “mounted machine gun corps”.

ALDRED

Albert [Edward]

Private 157841, 5th Bn. Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Died 24th October 1918, aged 20 Born Norwoord, Enlisted, Southend. Formerly 23235 Essex Regiment. Son of Mrs. Kate Alice Frost, of 38, E Caithness Rd., Mitcham, Surrey.Buried in ROCQUIGNY-EQUANCOURT ROAD BRITISH CEMETERY, MANANCOURT. Plot XIII. Row A. Grave 14.

ALEXANDER

Henry [James]

Private 11739, 2nd Battaion, Hampshire Regiment Unit. Died 13th August 1915, aged 24. Born Battersea, Resident Merton. Son of William John and Sabina Elizabeth Alexander, of 6, Norfolk Rd., Colliers Wood, Merton, London. Commemorated on HELLES MEMORIAL, Turkey. Panel 125-134 or 223-226 228-229 & 328.

ALLEN

A

ALLEN

A E

ALLEN

George Albert

Lance Corporal 76275, posted 1st/4th London, Regiment, Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment). Killed in action 21st September 1918. Born Peckham, enlisted Woolwich, resident Mitcham. Formerly G/6495, 16th Battalion, Royal West Surrey Regiment. Buried in VIS-EN-ARTOIS BRITISH CEMETERY, HAUCOURT. Plot II. Row D. Grave 3.

ALLEREY

E G

ALLISON

W C

ANDRE

F

ANGLISS

William Richard

Private 89486, 2nd Bn. Middlesex Regiment. Died 27/04/1918, aged 19. Son of Beatrice Harriett and William Arthur Angliss, of 55, Gladstone Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: A. 14. Cemetery: LONGPRE-LES-CORPS SAINTS BRITISH CEMETERY.

William was born in Mitcham in 1899, the son of William Arthur Angliss (1879-1959) and Beatrice Harriet Ruddick (1879-1962). William had four sisters and one brother. The Angliss family had lived in Mitcham for at least three generations.

William enlisted in Kingston and joined a regular battalion. The 2nd Middlesex were involved in the attacks and counter attacks around VILLERS BRETONNEUX at the time of William's death. The defence of this area was vital in halting the enemy advance on Amiens during their nearly successful Spring 1918 offensive.

ANNAN

Robert Philip

Lance Corporal 558145 (1516), 29th Division Signal Company, Royal Engineers. Killed in action 30th November 1917, aged 27. Enlisted London, resident Mitcham. Son of James and Jane Greig Annan, of Pentlands, Mitcham, Surrey. Buried in GOUZEAUCOURT NEW BRITISH CEMETERY. Buried near this spot. Commemorated on Special Memorial VIII. B. 7.

ANSLOW

Ernest William

Private G/41415, 18th Battalion, Duke of CAmbridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment). Killed in action 19th May 1917, aged 32. Born Sydenham, Kent, enlisted Kingston, resident Mitcham. Son of Edward and Julia Anslow; husband of Emma Jane Anslow, of 84, The Causeway, Mitcham, Surrey. Buried in WANCOURT BRITISH CEMETERY. Plot VII. Row A. Grave 8.

Ernest William was born in 1885 in Forest Hill. One of seven children of parents Edward and Julia. The family had settled in Mitcham before the War.

Ernest was married and living in Mitcham when he enlisted in Kingston, first joining the East Surrey Regt. before transferring to a service battalion of the Middlesex Regiment known as 1st Public Works Pioneers which had been first formed in London on 19 January 1915, by Lt-Col. J. Ward, MP.

Wancourt was captured on 12 April 1917 after very heavy fighting and Ernest’s unit was still in this area at the time of his death.

ANSLOW

Jack

Private 203165, 11th Battalion, Essex Regiment. Died of wounds 19th May 1918, aged 20. Son of Edward and Julia Anslow, of Hall Farm, Lower Green, Mitcham, Surrey. Enlisted Wimbledon, resident Mitcham. Buried in ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY. Plot LXVII. Row C. Grave 32.

Jack (Jasler) was born in 1898 in Walworth. The youngest son of Edward and Julia.

Jack enlisted in Wimbledon, first joining the East Surrey Regt. (2359) before transferring to a service battalion of the Essex Regiment.

It is not known exactly when or where Jack was wounded, but his unit was in action in the St. Quentin region during the enemy’s spring 1918 offensive.

ARNOLD

Walter William

Private 32553, 7th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 09/04/1917, aged 19. Son of Thomas James and Clara Kate Arnold, of 18, Boyd Rd., Colliers Wood, Merton, London. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 6.

Walter William was born in 1898 in Streatham. The son of Son of Thomas James and Clara Kate Arnold who were both from Lambeth. Walter’s family had settled in Tooting by the 1900’s.

Walter enlisted in Wimbledon, joining a service battalion of the East Surrey Regiment which was first formed at Kingston in August 1914. At the time of his death Walter’s unit was involved in the “First Battle of the Scarpe” which opened on 9th April 1917.

ASHFORD

Walter George

Private 306953 (5342), 11th Bn. Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment). Died 18/09/1917. Born Holloway, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Merton. Buried in BEDFORD HOUSE CEMETERY. Enclosure No.2 Plot I. Row E. Grave 20.

ASHMORE

William Ewart

Gunner L/38363, "C" Bty. 186th Bde, Royal Field Artillery. Died 01/10/1917, aged 19. Enlisted Lambeth, Resident Merton. Son of Walter and Laura Ashmore, of 51, Phipps Bridge Rd., Merton, London. Buried in LA CLYTTE MILITARY CEMETERY. Plot III. Row C. Grave 10.

ATTERBURY

William James

Private 9583, 1st Bn East Surrey Regiment. Died 24/11/1914, aged 26. Son of William and Mary Ann Elizabeth Atterbury, of 3, Spencer Terrace, Spencer Rd., Mitcham Common, Mitcham, Surrey. Commemorated on YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL. Panel 34.

William was a regular soldier. De Ruvignys Roll of Honour states:

“William James ATTERBURY, eldest son of William Atterbury of 3, Spencer Rd. Mitcham. Born Carshalton, Co. Surrey, 7/10/1888, enlisted June 5th 1908. Served with the BEF from the 7th of October 1914. KIA 24th November following.”

AYLING

Albert [Henry]

AYLING

Ernest

Sergeant 7015, 2nd Battalion, Royal Irish Regiment. Killed in action 5th July 1916, aged 31. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Lambeth, Resident Streatham. Son of Andrew and Mary Ayling, and Uncle of Albert Ayling. Buried in DANTZIG ALLEY BRITISH CEMETERY, MAMETZ. Plot III. Row K. Grave I.

BAKER

A F

BAKER

C

BAKER

H

Possibly – Harry BAKER, Private G/50785, 23rd Bn. Royal Fusiliers. Date of Died 02/12/1917, aged 40. Born Brixton, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Merton. Son of Mrs. Mary Baker, of "Llayside", Selbourne Rd., Hockley, Essex; husband of Agnes Baker, of Upper High St., Castle Cary, Somerset. Commemorated on CAMBRAI MEMORIAL, LOUVERVAL. Panel 3 and 4.

BALL

Alfred Victor

Private 42809, 7th Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment attached 17th Battalion, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Killed in action 23rd March 1918, aged 19. Born Battersea, enlisted Wandsworth, resident Mitcham. Son of Mr. and Mrs. A. V. Ball, of Mill House, Barnston, Dunmow, Essex. Alfred’s Medal Index Card shows these units: The Queen's Regiment 157669 Private and Lincolnshire Regiment 42809 Private. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 3 and 4.

BARKER

A C

BARKER

A J

BARKER

C J

Possibly - Charles James BARKER - Private G/8153, 1st Bn Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment). Died 04/10/1917. Enlisted Lambeth, Resident Brixton. Commemorated on TYNE COT MEMORIAL. Panel 106 to 108.

BARNES

Albert Henry

Stoker 1st Class K/16819, H.M.S. "Queen Mary" Royal Navy. Died 31/05/1916, aged 21. Son of A. A. and M. C. Barnes, of 11, Heaton Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Native of Bermondsey, London. Enlisted Kennington, Resident Clapham. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 17.

Albert Henry was lost during the “Battle of Jutland”. His ship, H.M.S. "Queen Mary", blew up after receiving direct hits from the German ships Seydlitz and Derfflinger. There were only 9 survivors from a crew of over a thousand men.

BARNES

Leslie [Ernest]

Private G/89300, 2nd Battalion, Middlesex Regiment. Died 24/04/1918. Enlisted Kingston, Resident Tooting. Commemorated on POZIERES MEMORIAL. Panel 60 and 61.

BASS

Frederick Charles William

Private 11735, 8th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Killed in action 1st July 1916, aged 23. Born Mitcham, enlisted Kingston-on-Thames. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL. Pier and Face 6 B and 6 C.

BATE

A E

No further information currently available

BATEMAN

William Arthur Charles

Trumpter 6930, 19th (Queen Alexandra's Own Royal) Hussars. Killed in action 20th May 1915. Born and resident Mitcham, enlisted London. Commemorated on YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL. Panel 5.

BATHURST

A

No further information currently available

BEADLE

Alfred

Private 6928, 2nd Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Killed in action 24th May 1915, aged 24. Born and resident Mitcham, enlisted Kingston-on-Thames. Commemorated on YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL. Panel 34.

BECKLEY

James

James was born in 1892 in Beddington Corner. The son of William and Isabella Beckley. The family was well established in Mitcham before the War. James had three brothers and two sisters.

James enlisted at Wimbledon, serving in the Royal Field Artillery. At the time of his death, James’ unit was involved in the “Battle of Passchendaele”.

BECKLEY

John

Private 43295, 13th Battalion, Duke of Wellington's (West Riding Regiment). Killed in action 28th September 1918, aged 28. Born Beddington, enlsited Ealing, Middlesex, resident Mitcham. Formerly 6299, Middlesex Regiment. Buried in VIEILLE-CHAPELLE NEW MILITARY CEMETERY, LACOUTUR. Plot V. Row D. Grave 8.

John was born two years before his brother John in 1890, in Beddington Corner.

John is recorded as enlisting in Ealing and first joined the Middlesex Regiment (6299/40246), being later transferred to a service battalion of the Duke of Wellington's. At the time of his death, John’s unit was involved in the final advance across the old Somme battlefields.

BEER

Albert George

Serjeant 1630, 1st Bn. Royal Fusiliers. Died 23/03/1918, aged 22. Son of Mrs. Mary Ann Beer, of 10, Norfolk Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, Wimbledon, London. Born Tottenham, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Merton. Commemorated on POZIERES MEMORIAL. Panel 19 to 21.

BENNETT

Harry

Private G/30844, 10th Battalion, Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment). Killed in action trying to take the village of Heestert near Kortrijk in Belgium on Friday 25/10/1918 shortly before his 18th birthday, his enlistment being illegal as he was under age. Born Mitcham, enlisted Whitehall, London. Son of Mr. and Mrs. G. A. Bennett, of 13a, Seaton Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Formerly G/29659, Royal West Surrey Regiment. Buried in HEESTERT MILITARY CEMETERY, Belgium. Plot/Row/Section B. Grave 11.

BENNETT

T G

BENNETT

William Robert

Private 2335, 1st/6th Battalion, Devonshire Regiment. Died 15/03/1916, aged 24. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Plymouth, Resident Mitcham. Son of George and Sarah Frances Bennett, of "Alveston," Mitcham Common, Surrey. Buried in AMARA WAR CEMETERY. Plot I. Row C. Grave 4.

BENTLEY

Albert Henry

BENTLEY

Frank Henry

Private 9937, 109th Coy. Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Died 02/05/1917, aged 23. Born Hackney, Enlisted London. Son of Mr. G. H. T. and Mrs. F. R. Bentley, of Dale Villa, Devonshire Rd. West, Merton, London. Buried in POND FARM CEMETERY. Row M. Grave 7.

BENTLEY

Walter Thomas

Lance Corporal 931, 1st Bn. Royal Warwickshire Regiment. Died 09/12/1914. Born Battersea, Enlisted Guildford, Resident Battersea. Commemorated on PLOEGSTEERT MEMORIAL. Panel 2 and 3.

BIRCH

Thomas Boys

Private 51160, 19th Bn. Manchester Regiment. Died 25/10/1917. Enlisted Mitcham. Son of Mrs. E. M. Birch, of 26, Inglemere Rd., Tooting Junction, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Buried in DERRY HOUSE CEMETERY No .2. Plot II. Row F1. Grave 1.

BIRCH

W

BIRD

Charles James

Private 5677, 15th Battalion, London Regiment (Prince of Wales' Own Civil Service Rifles). Died 22/10/1916, aged 21. Enlisted London, Resident Tooting. Son of James and Mary Bird, of 17, Crisp Rd., Hammersmith, London. Buried in ST. SEVER CEMETERY, ROUEN. Plot B. Row 12. Grave 17.

BISHOP

F C

BLAGBURN

Ernest James

Rifleman C/7434, 18th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Corps. Died 19/06/1916, aged 26. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Croydon, Resident Mitcham. Son of Charles Blagburn, of Mitcham; husband of Edith Blagburn, of 15A, Bruce Rd., Mitcham. Buried in MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND. Grave Reference: III. 13.

BLAKE

George

Private 35047, "B" Coy. 9th Bn East Surrey. Died 23/09/1918, aged 19. Born Battersea, Enlisted Kingston. Son of Joseph and Claribel A. Blake, of 9, Fullerton Rd., Wandsworth, London. Buried in AIX-NOULETTE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION. Plot II. Row H. Grave 10.

BLAKE

James George

Private 1978, 7th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 03/09/1916. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Mitcham. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 6.

BLAZDELL

Clifford [Alexander]

Private G/1976, 6th Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 08/10/1915, aged 27. Born Wandsworth, Enlisted Croydon, Resident Tooting. Commemorated on LOOS MEMORIAL. Panel 13 to 15.

BLISS

Thomas Norman

Driver 28575, 39th Div. Ammunition Col. Royal Field Artillery. Died 12/04/1918. Enlisted Camberwell, Resident Tooting. Buried in ADELAIDE CEMETERY, VILLERS-BRETONNEUX. Plot II. Row J. Grave 1.

BLOCK

Arthur James

Lance Corporal 13462, "C" Company, 1st Battalion, Middlesex Regiment. Died 21/08/1916, aged 26. Son of Lewis and Eva Block, of 5, Queen's Rd., Mitcham. Buried in MILLENCOURT COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION. Row C. Grave 17.

Arthur James was born in 1890 in Mitcham. The son of Lewis and Eva Block, who had seven children: Louis, Arthur, John, Eva, Edgar, Alice and William. Arthur’s father had been born in Mitcham and his mother in Norfolk.

Mark and Willie Glover (see below) had lived just two doors away when they were children.

Arthur enlisted in Kingston and joined a regular battalion of the “Died Hards”. Arthur’s battalion had been on the Somme at the time of this death. Records show that:

“On 13th August the Battalion again moved back to the line, first in reserve in Mametz Wood and then to the front line on 14th in High Wood. Two Companies-"B" and "C"-supported an attack by the 2nd Argylls on 18th and heavy fighting took place.

The Battalion moved back to Mametz Wood on 19th, after a terrible time forward. The tour from 14th to 19th had cost the Die-Hards 1 officer wounded, 25 other ranks killed, 96 wounded, and 9 missing.”

Arthur died of wounds believed to have been sustained during this period.

BLOCK

Edgar

Private T/243201 (T/1684), 1st/5th Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 07/06/1917. Buried in BASRA WAR CEMETERY. Plot VI. Row U. Grave 16.

Edgar was born in 1895 in Mitcham. The son of Lewis and Eva Block, and younger brother of Arthur.

Edgar enlisted in Mitcham, first joining the East Surrey Regiment (200307), before being transferred to the 1st/5th Battalion, The Queen’s who had moved from India to Mesopotamia by early 1916. Like Gallipoli, conditions in Mesopotamia were extreme.

BLOUNT

G

BONE

Charles

Private 8767, 2nd Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 02/12/1914, aged 29. Son of George William and Emily Bone, of 58, Sibthorpe Road, Mitcham, Surrey. Buried in BOULOGNE EASTERN CEMETERY. Plot III. Row B. Grave 52.

Charles was born in Carshalton in 1885. The son of George William and Emily Bone. Charles worked as a market garden labourer before joining up. He enlisted on 5th Nov. 1904 and served with the BEF in France from 12th Aug. 1914 in a regular battalion. Charles was wounded during the retreat from Mons and again severely near Ypres. Charles died whilst being evacuated by Ambulance Train.

BOSTON

Henry Frederick

Private (SR)7135, 9th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 01/09/1916, age 19. Born Camberwell, Enlisted Kingston. Son of William T. and Ada Boston, of 23, Grenfell Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL. Pier and Face 6 B and 6 C.

BOUGHEN

Walter

Able Seaman SS/3189, H.M.S. "Turbulent" Royal Navy. Died 01/06/1916, aged 24. Son of the late Charles Robert Boughen, of Rotherhithe, Kent; husband of Ethel Mary Boughen, of 2, Benedict Terrace, Mitcham, Surrey. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL. Panel 16.

Walter was lost at the “Battle of Jutland”. He was onboard the destroyer H.M.S. "Turbulent". Just after midnight on 1st June, part of 13th Destroyer Flotilla where in action with German battleships. H.M.S. Turbulent was rammed and sunk, with the loss of 90 of her crew of just over one hundred men.

BOWDERY

Alfred Allen

*Private 11115, 1st Bn. South Wales Borderers. Died 08/10/1915, aged 26. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 52. Cemetery: LOOS MEMORIAL 

Alfred was born in Mitcham in 1889, the son of John and Mary Bowdery. Alfred is thought to be a cousin of Sidney Charles Bowdery.

Alfred enlisted in Kingston and joined a regular battlalion. At the time of Alfred's death his unit had been involved in the heavy fighting throughout the “Battle of Loos” which had opened on the 25th Sept, 1915.

BOWDERY

Charles Henry

Trooper 1757, Household Battalion. Died 12/10/1917, aged 28. Son of John and Polly Bowdery, of Common Side, 7, Spencer Rd., Mitcham, Surrey; husband of Alice M. M. Johnson (formerly Bowdery), of 280, South Lambeth Rd., Stockwell, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 3. Cemetery: TYNE COT MEMORIAL. 

Charles Henry was born in 1888, the son of Jon and Polly Bowdery. It is not known how Charles is related to Alfred and Sidney, but he may be another cousin.

Charles enlisted in Wimbledon. Formerly of the Kent Yeomanry, Charles transferred to the “Household Battalion” which was formed on 1st September 1916, at Knightsbridge Barracks, as an infantry Battalion. Troops were drawn from the Household Cavalry Reserve regiments. They moved to France on 9th November 1916. At the time of Charles' death his unit was involved on the opening day of the “First Battle of Passenchendale“. They were to take and hold Requete Farm (North East of Poelcapelle). They succeeded but a very high cost.

BOWDERY

Sidney Charles

Rifleman 653210, 21st Bn. London Regiment (First Surrey Rifles). Died 08/10/1916, aged 19. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: VIII. D. 9. Cemetery: WARLENCOURT BRITISH CEMETERY. 

Sidney was the born in Mitcham,in 1897, the son of William and Clara Bowdery. The Bowdery family had lived in Mitcham for at least three generations.

Sidney enlisted in Wimbledon, and his service number was originally 6726. At the time of Sidney's death his unit was involved in the final stages of the “Battle of the Somme”. On the 8th October the Battalion were in rough trenches immediately North of the monastery of Eaucort L'Abbaye the 24th Londons were on the right of the Battalion and the 23rd Londons on the Left. The original plan was to make a surprise attack on the enemy positions but this was changed at the last minute and a heavy bombardment preceded the assault. As a result, the enemy were fully alert and resistance was strong. The battalion only managed to move forward by 200 -300 yards and was forced to "dig in" and wait for more favourable conditions. However, they were relieved by the 1st South African brigade on the 9th October and the Battalion moved back to rest positions at Mametz Wood.

BOWERS

Walter

Private 4, 3rd Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Secondary transferred to 662161 Labour Corps. Died 08/11/1918. Born Chichester, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Mitcham. Walter’s Medal Index Card shows these units: Army Cyclist Corps, 255, Private and Labour Corps, 662161, Private. Buried in MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND. Grave reference: Z. 323.

BOWLER

James

Private 202280 (5235), 1st Battalion, London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). Died 03/05/1917, aged 23. Son of Francis George and Alice Elizabeth Bowler, of 58, Fortescue Rd., Merton, Wimbledon, London. Enlisted Handle St., Resident Merton. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 9.

BRADLEY

H L

BRADLEY

S C

BRADSHAW

Leonard Ralph

Private 10753, 1st Bn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Died 20/10/1914, aged 24. Son of Eliza Bradshaw, of 30, Chapel Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 22. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.   

Leonard was born in Mitcham in 1890, the son of Henry and Eliza Bradshaw. The Bradshaw family had lived in Mitcham for at least three generations. Leonard died leaving no wife or children.

Leonard enlisted in Mitcham and joined a regular battalion. At the time of Leonard's death his unit was involved in the “First Battle of Ypres”. It started as a battle of encounter as the BEF advanced with the intention of capturing Menin, where they ran into superior enemy forces advancing towards Ypres. On the 20th October the 2/Seaforth Highlanders and 1/Royal Welsh Fusiliers were sent forward to capture positions that would assist communications across the river Lys. Initial success could not be exploited due to lack of high-explosive shells.

BRAUND

Victor Samuel

Rifleman B/2675, 8th Battalion, Rifle Brigade. Died 30/07/1915, aged 24. Born Kent, Enlisted Kingston, resident Cheddar. Born Kent, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Cheddar. Son of William Braund, of Bath Arms Hotel, Cheddar, Somerset. Commemorated on YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL. Panel 46 - 48 and 50.

BRETT

W H

No further information currently available

BRICKELL

Harry Charles

Private 2582, 9th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers. Died 30/11/1917, age 20. Born Ongar, Enlisted Woolwich, Resident Tooting. Son of Charles and Maggie Jane Brickell, of 31, Seely Rd., Tooting, London. Commemorated on CAMBRAI MEMORIAL, LOUVERVAL. Panel 3 and 4.

BRIGDON

P J

No further information currently available

BRIGHT

Albert Edward

Stoker 1st Class K/15459, H.M.S. "Mary Rose" Royal Navy. Died 17/10/1917, aged 21. Son of Mrs. Louisa Davis (formerly Bright), of 7, Miller Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London, and the late Mr. Bright. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL. Panel 23.

Albert was lost whilst serving on the destroyer H.M.S. "Mary Rose". On 17th October 1917, the destroyers "Mary Rose" and "Strongbow" were escorting a British Scandinavian convoy in the northern North Sea, off Norway in the Norwegian Sea (60°06’N, 1°06’E) when attacked and sunk by German cruisers.

BRIGHT

E F

No further information currently available

BROOKS

Arthur

Private G/97914, 1st Battalion, Middlesex Regiment. Died 24/10/1918. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Mitcham, Resident Colliers wood. Commemorated on VIS-EN-ARTOIS MEMORIAL. Panel 8-9.

BROWN

John

Private 6908, 2nd Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 13/05/1915, aged 27. Born Mitcham, enlisted Kingston. Born Mitcham, enlisted Kingston. Son of Robert Brown, of Mitcham; husband of Selina Brown, of 18, Smith's Buildings, Common Side East, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. C. 8. Cemetery: HAZEBROUCK COMMUNAL CEMETERY.

BRUNNING

Walter

Sapper 550711 (2869), 520th Field Company, Royal Engineers. Died 16/04/1917, aged 40. Born Brandon Suffolk, Enlisted London. Husband of Ethel Anna Brunning, of 5, Norman Rd., South Wimbledon, London. Buried in BEDFORD HOUSE CEMETERY. Enclosure No. 4. Plot I. Row F. Grave 22.

BRYAN

James William

Private G/16739, 1st Battalion, Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment). Died 04/10/1917, aged 32. Born Islington, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Colliers Wood. Son of James and Sarah Bryan; husband of Mrs. E. J. Benjamin (formerly Bryan), of 86, Acre Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Buried in HOOGE CRATER CEMETERY. Plot VIA. Row L. Grave 12.

BUCK

W

No further information currently available

BUCKLAND

Frederick Sigmur

Sergeant 47076, "D" Battery, 96th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. Died 19/09/1916. Born Merton, Enlisted London. Buried in DANTZIG ALLEY BRITISH CEMETERY, MAMETZ. Plot IX. Row N. Grave 4.

BUDD

F

No further information currently available

BUDD

S

No further information currently available

BULLOCK

Harry Thomas Charles

Private 27455, 1st Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment. Died 08/11/1918, aged 19. Born Battersea, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Tooting. Son of Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Bullock, of 130, Robinson Rd., Tooting Junction, London. Native of Mitcham, Surrey. Formerly 38440 Rifle Brigade. Buried in BERLIN SOUTH-WESTERN CEMETERY. Plot V. Row D. Grave 22.

BURGE

Samuel George

Private 1809, 2nd Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 08/05/1915, aged 21. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 34. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

Samuel George Burge was born in Tooting in 1893, the son of Samuel Burge (1862-1924) and Clara (nee HILLS) (1865 -1953). Samuel was from a large family and had 5 brothers and 4 sisters. Samuel had married Alice Sallis in 1913 and they had one son named Reuben George Burge born in the same year. Before the war Samuel had worked as a painter and decorator, like his father and his younger brother Reuben.

Samuel enlisted in Kingston on 6th September 1914 together with his brother Reuben who lied about his age. They were both sent to France after their six months training and on to the Ypres salient at a time of crisis. Samuel was lost in the Battle of Frezenberg when the entire 2nd East Surrey Battalion was in action. Samuel had disembarked in France just 12 days before. Reuben survived the War.

BURLES

Harry Victor

Private 44017, 10th Bn, Essex Regiment Unit. Died 18/10/1918, aged 19. Born Deptford, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Mitcham. Son of Arthur and Annabella Esther Burles, of Durham Cottages, Fair Green, Mitcham. Buried in MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND. Grave Reference: G. 5.

BURTON

Harry Colenso

Private 79207, 9th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers. Died 21/09/1918, aged 18. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Whitehall, Resident Mitcham. Son of Frederick and Elizabeth Burton, of 3, Stair Cottages, St. Mark's Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Formley 53rd London grad. Buried in EPEHY WOOD FARM CEMETERY, EPEHY. Plot III. Row I. Grave 2.

BUTCHER

Thomas

Private 11030, 1st Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 23/04/1917. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Mitcham. Buried in BAILLEUL ROAD EAST CEMETERY, ST. LAURENT-BLANG. Plot II. Row A. Grave 26.

BUTLER

C

No further information currently available

BUTLER

Frederick

Private 8388, 1st Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 21/10/1914. Born St. Pancras, Enlisted Kingston. Commemorated on LE TOURET MEMORIAL Panel 18 and 19.

BUTLER

J

No further information currently available

BUTLER

J O

Possibly John Ormond BUTLER – 2nd Lieutenant, 3rd Sqdn Royal Air Force. Died 11/04/1918, aged 19. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: VIII. D. 6. Cemetery: MONS COMMUNAL CEMETERY.

De Ruvignys Roll of Honour states:

“Butler John Ormonde, 2nd Lt, RAF, only s of the rev robert Moore Peile Butler, of Prison rectory, Bath, MA., by his wife Annie Langsdale b Eaton County Chester 11 dec 1898, edu harrow and trinity college cambridge. Gazetted 2lt. RAF in July 1917, served with the expeditionary force in France and Flanders from Jan 1918. was wounded while flying over the german lines 24 march following following being taken prisoner and died at the POW hospital Mons on the 11th of the following month. Buried in mons Cemetery.”

BYE

E C

No further information currently available

CAME

Thomas Ernest

Private 13446, 3rd Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 29/06/1917 aged 20. Born Wimbledon. Son of Thomas Ed. and Mary Emma Came, of 60, Fortescue Rd., Merton, London. Native of Wimbledon, London. Cemetery: FINS NEW BRITISH CEMETERY, SOREL-LE-GRAND. Plot V. Row F. Grave 14.

CARLIN

Private 51406, 13th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers. Died 28/04/1917, aged 34. Born Maryhill Banff, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Mitcham. Son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Philip Carlin; husband of Catherine Jane Carlin, of 21, Hawthorn Avenue, Mitcham, Surrey. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 3.

Rifleman 470563 (2618), 12th Battalion, London Regiment (The Rangers). Died 06/04/1917, aged 20. Enlisted London, Resident Mitcham. Son of Joseph and Margaret Carruthers, of 35, Rickergate, Carlisle. Buried in NIKOLAI CEMETERY. Plot II. Row D. Grave 3 3.

Private 79210, 9th Battalion, London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). Died 18/09/1918, aged 18. Son of William Charles Carter, of 3, Fernlea Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Formerly 53rd Grad BTTN. Buried in EPEHY WOOD FARM CEMETERY, EPEHY. Born Southfields, Enlisted Whitehall, Resident Mitcham. Plot I. Row F. Grave 4.

Private 21925, 8th Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 14/06/1917. Born Bermondsey, Enlisted London, Resident Mitcham. Buried in LIJSSENTHOEK MILITARY CEMETERY. Plot XIV. Row F. Grave 7A.

Private 22880, 2nd Battalion, Border Regiment. Died 09/10/1917. Born Paddington, Enlisted Wimbledon. Commemorated on TYNE COT MEMORIAL. Panel 85 to 86.

CARYL

Private 16271, 12th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 22/07/1918. Born Totnes, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Merton. Buried in LIJSSENTHOEK MILITARY CEMETERY. Plot XXVIII. Row G. Grave 12A.

CATTERILL

H

Possibly Herbert CATTERILL - Gunner 27096, 65th Howitzer Bty. Royal Field Artillery. Died 29/06/1917. Born Hitchin, Enlisted London. Buried in ROCLINCOURT MILITARY CEMETERY. Plot II. Row C. Grave 23.

CHALLIS

Private 19265, 8th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 23/03/1918, aged 21. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Mitcham. Son of Frederick and Amelia Challis, of 5 Western Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Buried in CHAUNY COMMUNAL CEMETERY BRITISH EXTENSION. Plot 3. Row C. Grave 2.

CHALLIS

[Lsited as T W CHALLIS on memorial] Driver T/29981, 15th Supply Depot Army Service Corps. Died 12/03/1915, aged 22. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Mitcham. Son of Frances Jane and the late George Challis, of 28, Fountain Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Buried in CHOCQUES MILITARY CEMETERY. Plot I. Row A. Grave 42.

CHANDLER

W

Possibly William CHANDLER - Private 9464, 140th Coy Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Died 21/05/1916, aged 23. Born Westminster, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Tooting. Son of Richard Chandler, of 24, Lyveden Rd., Tooting Junction, London, and Phoebe Chandler (Step-mother). Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 10.

CHAPPELL

F H

Possibly Francis Harold CHAPPELL - Second Lieutenant, 16th Battalion, Regiment: Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment) Died 03/09/1916. Commemoarted on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL. Pier and Face 10 C 10 D and 11 A.

CHAPPENDEN

Gunner/Bombardier 67739, 65th Bty 8th Brigade. Royal Field Artillery. Died 08/05/1915. Born Wolworth, Enlisted London. Buried in POTIJZE CHATEAU WOOD CEMETERY. Row A. Grave 8.

CHARLES

Private 6009, 2nd Battalion, Royal Munster Fusiliers. Died 25/06/1916. Born Peckham, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Merton. Son of Mr. A. Charles, of ‘Peacehaven’, Kingston Rd., Ashford Common, Middx. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 9.

CHART

Private 10196, 4th Regt South African Infantry. Died 23/09/1917, aged 36. Son of Robert and Florence Chart, of St. Mary's, Mitcham, Surrey, England; husband of Margaret Chart, of Limebrook Cottage, Bingham Street, Bangor, Co. Down, Ireland. Buried in NINE ELMS BRITISH CEMETERY. Plot I. Rowe E. Grave 6.

CHRISTIE

Possibly C H CHISTIE - Private L/7115, 1st Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 28/02/1915. Buried in BAILLEUL COMMUNAL CEMETERY (NORD). Row J. Grave 9.

CLARK

A

No further information currently available

CLARK

W

No further information currently available

CLARKE

F

No further information currently available

CLAYDON

E

Possibly Ernest Digby CLAYDON - Rifleman 585022, 17th Battalion,London Regiment. Died 01/09/1918. Born Camberwell, Enlisted Camberwell, Resident South Croydon. Buried in PERONNE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION. Plot III. Row N. Grave 15.

CLEMENTS

Private 18164, 9th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 24/12/1916, aged 26. Born Earlsfield, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Wimbledon. Son of William Arthur and Caroline Rachael Clements; husband of Olive Amy Clements, of 31, Haydon Park Rd., Wimbledon, London. Buried in PHILOSOPHE BRITISH CEMETERY, MAZINGARBE. Plot II. Row A. Grave 6.

CLIFFORD

Rifleman 47265, 13th Battalion, King's Royal Rifle Corps. Died 04/11/1918, aged 19. Born Streatham, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Mitcham. Son of Mrs. E. Clifford, of 4, Leonard Rd., Greyhound Lane, Streatham, London. Buried in GHISSIGNIES BRITISH CEMETERY. Row A. Grave 13.

COBB

Private 18389, 1st Battalion, Coldstream Guards. Died 15/07/1917, aged 17. Born Newington, Enlisted Caterham, Resident Mitcham. Only son of Henry and Amy Cobb, of 108, Caithness Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Buried in BLEUET FARM CEMETERY. Plot I. Row F. Grave 8.

COCKS

Private G/6563, 7th Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 03/05/1917. Born Peckham, enlisted Croydon, resident Thorton Heath. Father from Truro, Cornwall. Husband of the late Frances Augusta Cocks. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 2.

COLDHAM, MM

Corporal 103415, 81st Field Coy Royal Engineers. Died 09/06/1918. Awarded MM. Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Mitcham. Buried in MARFAUX BRITISH CEMETERY. Plot IV. Row H. Grave 4.B

Jack Coldham’s citation for the MM appeared in the LONDON GAZETTE, 21 OCTOBER, 1918, with the text:

‘His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Military Medal for bravery in the Field to the undermentioned Warrant Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and Men: — 103415 Cpl. J. Coldham, R.E. (Mitcham).’

COLE

C

No further information currently available

Rifleman S/4135, 13th Battalion, Rifle Brigade. Died 10/07/1916. Born Haslemere, Enlisted London, Resident Tooting. Buried in POZIERES BRITISH CEMETERY, OVILLERS-LA BOISSELLE. Plot III. E. 24.

COLE

F A

No further information currently available

COLE

Gunner 87960, ‘C’ Bty. 4th Brigade. Royal Horse Artillery. Died 04/07/1918, aged 27. Born Bermondsey, Enlisted Wimbledon. Son of Samuel and Ellen Cole, of 125, Church Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Buried in QUERRIEU BRITISH CEMETERY. Row C. Grave 36.

COLE

Rifleman 375197, 8th Battalion, London Regiment (Post Office Rifles). attached 1st/17th Battalion, London Regiment. Died 21/03/1918, aged 36. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Mitcham, Resident Mitcham. Father of Miss Elsie Maud Cole, of 88, Coronation Cottage, Lower Mitcham, Surrey. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL. Bay 10.

COLE

Rifleman 653248 (6770), 1st/21st Battalion, London Regiment (First Surrey Rifles). Died 25/03/1918. Born Cambridge, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Mitcham. Husband of Mrs. Cole, of 5, Hawthorne Cottages, Church Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Buried in LEBUCQUIERE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION. Plot II. Row D. Grave 10.

COLE

Private 240512, 1st/5th Battalion, Devonshire Regiment. Died 22/07/1918. Born Bermondsey, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Mitcham. Buried in MARFAUX BRITISH CEMETERY. Plot VII. Row B. Grave 8.

COLE

Lionel Victor

Private 67818, 93rd Coy. Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Died 28/11/1917, aged 21. Born Hungerford, enlisted Kingston, resident Merton. Formerly 24556 East Surrey. Son of F. G. and Fanny Cole, of 46, Kenton Road, South Hackney, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. F. 1. Cemetery: ROCLINCOURT MILITARY CEMETERY.

COLEMAN

Herbert John Evan

Gunner 75138, 39th Bty. Royal Field Artillery. Died 11/03/1915, aged 19. Son of William Henry and Ellen Ann Coleman, of Merton, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. D. 24. Cemetery: WIMEREUX COMMUNAL CEMETERY.

Herbert John Evan was born 1886 in Merton, the son of William Henry and Ellen Ann Coleman. Herbert enlisted in Kingston first joining the Gloucester Regiment as private 36090, before transferring to the RFA. At the time of Herbert’s death his unit was in the Ypres Salient.

COLES

Charles Henry

Private 2782, 23rd Bn. Middlesex Regiment. Died 31/07/1917, aged 19. Born South Norwood, enlisted Kingston, Resident Tooting. Formerly 36090 Gloucestershire Regiment. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 49 and 51. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

COLLIER

Walter Samuel

Private G/22446, 7th Bn. Royal Sussex Regiment. Died 27/03/1918. Born Walworth, Enlisted Warminster. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 46 and 47. Cemetery: POZIERES MEMORIAL

COLLINS

Henry James

Private 43550, 5th Bn. Royal Berkshire Regiment Died 26/08/1918, aged 19. Born Walworth, Enlisted Willesden. Formerly 36090 Gloucestershire Regiment. Son of Henry James and Elsie Clara Collins, of 27, Cromwell Terrace, Gladstone Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. C. 25. Cemetery: PERONNE ROAD CEMETERY, MARICOURT.

COLLINS

Oscar Owen

Serjeant 113662, Pigeon Service Royal Engineers. Died 26/09/1918, aged 41. Husband of Edith Louise Collins, of 214, High St., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XII. 64. Cemetery: MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND.

Oscar was born in 1877 in Clapham, the son of William and Mary Collins. Oscar married Edith Louise Gleed in 1898, and had worked as a taxidermist before the War. Oscar was resident in Mitcham when he enlisted and joined the Pigeon Service of the Royal Engineers. Oscar died at home.

COOK

P A

No further information currently available

COOK

Tom

Serjeant 2099, 8th Bn. London Regiment (Post Office Rifles). Died 02/11/1915, aged 27. Born Mitcham, Enlisted London, Resident Merton. Formerly 2513 East Surrey Regt. Son of Tom and Ellen Cook, of 6, Marlborough Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. K. 12. Cemetery: DUD CORNER CEMETERY, LOOS.

COOK

William E

Rifleman 653242, 21st (County of London) Battalion (1st Surrey Rifles), London Regiment. Killed in action 5/06/1917. Aged 23. Born Mitcham, enlisted Wimbledon. Son of the late Mr. Cook and of Mrs. Cook, of 10A, Seaton Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Formerly 2513, East Surrey Regiment. Buried in BEDFORD HOUSE CEMETERY, Ieper, Belgium. Enclosure No. 4 Plot II. Row B. Grave 24.

COOPER

A W

No further information currently available

COOPER

Peter

Private T4/126919, 708th M.T. Coy. Royal Army Service Corps. Died 22/12/1918, aged 39. Husband of Beatrice Emmeline Cooper (nee Davis), of 13, University Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Born at Merton. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: C. 4. Cemetery: SKOPJE BRITISH CEMETERY.

CORY

John Reginald

Private 70230, 9th Bn. Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment). Died 03/10/1917, aged 31. Born Brixton, Enlisted Chesterfield, Resident Mitcham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 99 to 102 and 162 to 162A. Cemetery: TYNE COT MEMORIAL.

COURTNELL

William George

Private 2172 (or 2472), 9th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Killed in action 26/09/1915. Aged 19. Born Mitcham, enlisted Wimbledon. Son of Mary Ann Jane Courtnell, of 6, Tamworth Lane, Mitcham, Surrey, and the late John Henry Courtnell. No known grave. Commemorated on LOOS MEMORIAL, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 65 to 67.

William was born in 1886 in Mitcham, the son of John Henry and Jane (nee Pearce). The family had lived in Mitcham for at least four generations and William’s father had lived in Tamworth Lane since the 1880’s.

William enlisted in Wimbledon, joining a service battalion of the East Surrey Regiment formed at Kingston-upon-Thames, September 1914, as part of K3 within the 24th Division. Units were assembled around Shoreham during September 1914. The Division crossed to France 28th August - 4th September 1915.

After just a few days in France, lengthy forced marches brought the Division into the reserve for the assault at Loos. It was sent into action on the second day of the battle on 26th September, where it suffered more than 3,900 casualties.

Records show: “11.00am The advance of 72nd Brigade composed now of 8/Royal West Kents and 9/East Surreys, together with half of 2/Welch, came under severe enfilade and frontal fire which included point-blank artillery. These units also reported British shellfire falling among them. 8/Buffs, 8/Queen's, 11/Essex and 9/Suffolks were all pushed into this murderous area. (The first three named all lost their Commanding Officers, killed in action here). Only a thin line reached the virtually undamaged German wire by about 1.00pm. All attempts to cut the wire failed with heavy casualties, and the remaining men took cover in long grass. At a shouted order to retire, men withdrew - many being hit by machine-gun fire as they did so. Those who did not retire were killed or captured.”

COUSENS

Albert Edward

Private 2368, Royal Sussex Regiment Secondary Regiment: Labour Corps transf. to (618438). Died 27/02/1919, aged 21. Son of Charles and Elizabeth Cousens, of 10, Acacia Rd., Mitcham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: IV. 68. Cemetery: MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND

COUSINS

George W J

Private 6377, 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 19/06/1915, aged 21. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. B. 3. Cemetery: WOODS CEMETERY.

George was born in 1894 in Mitcham, the son of Samuel and Louisa Cousins, one of six children. The family had lived on Commonside before the War.

George enlisted in Kingston, joining a regular battalion of the East Surrey Regiment. At the time of his death, George’s unit was at Hill 60, south-east of Ypres. Hill 60 was the scene of bitter fighting throughout the war, changing hands several times, and constantly shelled. Just two months before the 1st Bn. East Surrey within 24 hours, between dawn on the 20th and dawn on the 21th April, 1915 earned three VCs and seven DCMs but had sustained heavy casualties in their attack to take Hill 60.

COWEY

Henry Edward

possibly - Private 13582, "C" Coy. 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 31/08/1918, aged 20. Born West Norwood, Enlisted Wandsworth. Son of Albert Edwin and Mary Cowey, of 98, Tring Rd., Aylesbury, Bucks. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: V. D. 1. Cemetery: BAGNEUX BRITISH CEMETERY, GEZAINCOURT.

COWHAM

Oswald Wharrie

Lance Corporal M2/104089, "D" Ammunition Park Army Service Corps. Secondary Unit: attd. IV. Corps Heavy Artillery. Died 01/12/1917, aged 38. Son of Dr. J. Cowham; husband of O. G. Cowham, of 28, Park Rd., Collier's Wood, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: IX. A. 19. Cemetery: GREVILLERS BRITISH CEMETERY.

Oswald Wharrie was born in 1878 in Westminster. The son of Joseph and Eliza Cowham. Oswald had married Olive Gertrude Bullock in 1908, after his first wife Ellen had died, and settled in the Mitcham area. Oswald had been a bank clerk before the War.

Oswald enlisted in London joining the Army Service Corps and was attached to IV Corps Heavy Artillery.

COX

R

No further information currently available

COX

W

No further information currently available

CRAWFORD

James Lemont

Private M/318511, 5th Div. Mechanical Transport Coy. Army Service Corps. Died 06/11/1918. Born Camberwell, Enlisted Wimbeldon, Resident Mitcham Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. B. 7. Cemetery: PREMONT BRITISH CEMETERY.

CREASY

W

No further information currently available

CREWES

Stanley [Maxwell Bennett]

Gunner 955135 (1057), "A" Bty. 15th Bde. Royal Field Artillery. Died 11/05/1917, aged 21. Son of Edward Snell Crewes and Lydia Crewes, of the Post Office, Upper Mitcham, Surrey. Native of Bradford, Yorks. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. A. 9. Cemetery: BOIS-CARRE BRITISH CEMETERY, THELUS

Stanley was born in 1896 in Bradford. His parents Edward and Lydia were originally from Cornwall. The family had moved to Mitcham to run the grocery and post office at Upper Green before the War.

Stanley enlisted in Brixton and joined the RFA. At the time of his death his unit was supporting the Canadians’ attack on Vimy Ridge.

CRISP

William Charles

Sapper 310229, 29th Light Railway Operating Coy. Royal Engineers. Died 31/10/1917, aged 27. Husband of Emily Daisy Crisp, of 34, Crusoe Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. D. 35. Cemetery: SOLFERINO FARM CEMETERY.

William Charles was born in 1890 in Clapham, the son of William and Elizabeth Crisp. The family had lived in Clapham and Balham before the War.

William enlisted in Tooting, first joining the Royal West Surrey Regiment as private G/17569, later transferring to the Royal Engineers. At the time of William’s death, his unit was in the Ypres Salient during the “Battle of Passchendaele”

CULLEY

Walter Duncan

Second Lieutenant, 1st Bn. Hampshire Regiment. Died 12/07/1918, aged 28. Son of Henry and Anna Elizabeth Culley, of 77, Marlborough Rd., Merton, London. Served with Post Office Rifles from Sept., 1914, to July, 1917. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: V. E. 24. Cemetery: PERNES BRITISH CEMETERY.

Walter Duncan Culley was born in 1890 in Bethnal Green, the son of Henry and Anna Elizabeth (nee Futter).

Walter enlisted in Sept. 1914, joining part of the Territorial Force the 8th battalion of the London Regiment, nicknamed the “Post Office Rifles”, as private 2289. In his third year on the Western Front, Walter was promoted to Second Lieutenant of 1st Bn. Hampshire Regiment.

Walter was fatally wounded at Riez du Vinage.

CUMMINGS

Francis Edward

Rifleman A/205300, 7th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Corps. Died 21/03/1918, aged 19. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 61 to 64. Cemetery: POZIERES MEMORIAL.

Francis Edward (Frank) was born in 1899 in Mitcham, the son of John and Rosa Cummings, who had a grocer’s shop at 5 London Rd before the War.

Frank enlisted in Wimbledon, joining a service battalion of the King's Royal Rifle Corps first formed at Winchester on 19 August 1914, as part of K1.

The 7/KRRC was part of the 14th (Light) Division which was holding a 2.5 mile front south of St. Quentin on the opening day of the enemy’s great Spring 1918 offensive. The 6/Somersets, 9/KRRC and 8/KRRC were holding front positions. These were overwhelmed by just after 9am on 21/03/1918.

DALTON

Charles Richard

Private 5650, 8th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 29/06/1916, aged 24. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: IV. R. 10. Cemetery: DANTZIG ALLEY BRITISH CEMETERY, MAMETZ.

Charles Richard was born in 1892 in Tooting, the son of George Gabriel and Jane Emma (nee Groves) Dalton. The family were well established in Tooting/Colliers Wood before the War.

Charles enlisted in Wimbledon, joining a service battalion of the East Surrey Regiment, first formed at Kingston-upon-Thames, September 1914, as part of K2. The battalion moved to France in early June 1915 to serve on the Western Front. Charles died of wounds on the eve of the “Battle of the Somme”.

DALY

D

No further information currently available

DANN

Lewis John

Private 72696, 1 Field Amb. Royal Army Medical Corps. Died 18/10/1918, aged 36. Son of James and Rebecca Dann, of Maidstone, Kent; husband of Minnie Dann, of 63, Cavendish Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. C. 18. Cemetery: VADENCOURT BRITISH CEMETERY, MAISSEMY. 

Lewis John was born in Maidstone Kent, the son of James Thomas Dann and Rebecca Holmes. At some stage he settled in London. Lewis John had worked in the print trade with his son Jack before the war in Wandsworth. Lewis John and his son Jack enlisted together in the Royal Army Medical Corps in Wimbledon. Their service numbers were 72696 and 72697, respectively.

Jack was wounded in 1918 and while recuperating in hospital in Ireland continued to exchange letters with his father up to the time of his father’s death. The 1st Field Ambulance was attached to the 1st Division, and Lewis John was lost at the “Battle of Selle” during the final advance in Picardy.

DARAGON

William

Lance Corporal G/20328, 8th Bn. Royal Sussex Regiment. Died 05/09/1917, aged 23. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 86 to 88. Cemetery: TYNE COT MEMORIAL.

William was born in 1894 in Mitcham, the son of Dennis and Harriett (nee Fletcher) Daragon.

William enlisted in Croydon, joining a service battalion of the Royal Sussex Regt. who acted as pioneers. At the time of his death, William’s unit was involved in the early part of the “Battle of Passchendaele”.

(Incorrectly spelt as DARACON on memorial)

DAVIS

F

No further information currently available

DAVIS

Horace Vincent

Private TF/235058, 12th Bn. Middlesex Regiment. Died 14/07/1917, aged 20. Born Merton, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Merton Abbey. Formerly 268136, Hertford Regt. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Sp. Mem. F. 26. Cemetery: RAILWAY DUGOUTS BURIAL GROUND.

DAVIS

John Henry

Private G/1485, 7th Bn The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 19/07/1916. Born Wimbledon, Enlisted Croydon, Resident Mitcham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. D. 7. Cemetery: PERONNE ROAD CEMETERY, MARICOURT.

DENNISION

William Arthur

Private 23955, 9th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 31/12/1918, aged 26. Born Thorton Heath, Enlisted Kingston. Son of Edward Valentine Dennison and Emma Anne Dennison, of Thornton Heath, Surrey. Was wounded and made a Prisoner of War. He died on his way home. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: VII. D. 6. Cemetery: LES BARAQUES MILITARY CEMETERY, SANGATTE.

DEVENISH

D W

No further information currently available

DICKER

Sidney Maskell

Rifleman C/6803, "D" Coy. 18th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Corps. Died 15/09/1916, aged 29. Husband of Dora Dicker, of 46, Chinnor Rd., Thame, Oxon. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. J. 1. Cemetery: BULLS ROAD CEMETERY, FLERS.

DILLISTONE

Charles William Henry

Private 225098, 1st Bn. London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). Secondary Regiment: attd. 12th Bn. Died 14/06/1917, aged 19. Born Clapham, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Merton. Formerly 5366/203511, East Surrey Regt. Son of John C. and Minnie E. Dillistone, of 46, Cavendish Rd., Merton, London. Transferred from 5th Bn. East Surrey Regt. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 52. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

DIXIE

Leonard

Private 55068, 23rd Bn. Royal Fusiliers. Died 30/09/1918. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. B. 3. Cemetery: NOYELLES-SUR-L'ESCAUT COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION.  

Leonard was born in Mitcham, and resided there at the time of the War.

Leonard enlisted in Kingston and joined a service battalion of the Royal Fusiliers, nicknamed the “1st Sportsman”, the battalion had included two famous cricketers and the lightweight boxing champion of England.  At the time of Leonard’s death his unit was involved in attacking a strong enemy position at the Mount sur l'Ouvres, suffering 2 officer and 64 other ranks casualties. The place is South of Cambrai, about 1500 yards NE of Masnieres. The battalion history describes the place as: "a regular hornet’s nest of machine guns, and all attempts to advance were swept away by an extremely accurate and murderous fire."

DRAKE

F

No further information currently available

DRAKE

W

No further information currently available

DREWETT

C J

No further information currently available

DREWETT

Douglas Walter

Private S/22909, 1st Bn. Cameron Highlanders. Date of Death: 03/10/1918, aged 35. Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Drewett, of "Ravensbury," Mitcham; husband of Margaret Rose Drewett, of "Montrose," Upper Green, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: VI. E. 7. Cemetery: GRAND-SERAUCOURT BRITISH CEMETERY.

Douglas Walter was born in 1883 in Mitcham. The son of James Douglas and Bridget Phoebe (nee Newman). The family had lived in Mitcham for at least four generations.

Douglas worked in the family business, “James Drewett & Sons, Builders”, based at London Road, Mitcham, before the War.

Douglas enlisted in London and joined a regular battalion of the Cameron Highlanders. At the time of his death, Douglas’ unit was involved in the “Battle of Beaurevoir” during the final advance in Picardy.

DREWETT

George Francis

Private CH/9628, Royal Marine Light Infantry Unit (RMR/B/577) H.M.S. "Hawke". Died 15/10/1914, aged 35. Son of Samuel Wesley Drewett and Kate Drewett, of Maidstone; husband of Harriett Elizabeth Drewett, of 85, Fernlea Rd., Graham Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Served in the South African War. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: 7. Cemetery: CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL.

George Francis was onboard the Cruiser H.M.S Hawke when it was torpedoed in the northern waters of the North Sea and sunk by U- 9 on the 15th October 1914. The torpedo struck near to a magazine and the Hawke sank in a matter of a few minutes with the loss of 524 men, there were 70 survivors.

DREWETT

William

Rifleman 377452, 8th Bn. London Regiment (Post Office Rifles). Died 14/02/1919. Husband of Miriam M Drewett of 12 Swains Lane, Lower Tooting, London SW17. His son Leslie Royal Drewett fell in WWII. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: VIII. 77. Cemetery: MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND.

DUNCAN

A

No further information currently available

ECCLES

J W

possibly - Lance Corporal P/14597, Military Foot Police, Military Police Corps. Died 27/10/1918, aged 27. Husband of Elizabeth Sarah Harding (formerly Eccles), of 91, Trevelyan Rd., Tooting, London. Formerly Private 784, Royal Fusiliers. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. C. 41. Cemetery: STAGLIENO CEMETERY, GENOA

EDGAR

John Thomas

Serjeant 79, 7th Bn. East Surrey Regiment, Died 24/08/1914, aged 41. Born Kamptee India, Enlisted Kingston. Son of the late James and Hannah Edgar; Husband of Isabella Ellen Edgar, of 40, Deal Rd., Tooting Junction, London. Previously served 23 Years in the Hampshire Regt. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: H. 3. 8990. Cemetery: WANDSWORTH (EARLSFIELD) CEMETERY.

EDGLEY

Leslie Seymour

Trooper 1708, Royal Horse Guards. Died 13/05/1915, aged 24. Born Newington, Enlisted St.Pancras, Resident Tooting. Son of Leopoldine Matilda Edgley, of 8, Arnold Rd., Tooting Junction, London, and the late Robert William Edgley. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 3. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

EDWARDS

Sidney Albert

Lance Corporal 683092 (6147), "B" Coy. 22nd Bn. London Regiment. Died 01/10/1917, aged 26. Born St.Pancras, Enlisted Croydon, Resident Tooting Junction. Son of A. and M. A. Edwards, of 12, Finborough Rd., Tooting, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: V. B. 43. Cemetery: DUISANS BRITISH CEMETERY, ETRUN.

ELGOOD

Alfred Charles

Private 40746, 1st Bn. Northamptonshire Regiment Unit Text: Died 10/11/1917, aged 21. (Served as TOTTERDILL) Son of Mrs. E. E. Elgood, of 7, Briscoe Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 104 to 105. Cemetery: TYNE COT MEMORIAL.

Alfred Charles was born 1896 in Balham, the third son of William John and Emily Edith (nee Edmonds). The family lived in both Tooting and Mitcham before the War.

Alfred enlisted in London, first joining the Royal Army Service corps (513) before finally transferring to the Northamptonshire Regiment. He served under the name of Alfred Totterdill and his Medal Index Card show these units:

Medal card of Totterdill, Alfred
Army Service Corps, RTS/513, Private
Training Reserve Battalion ,TR/5/48581, Private Northamptonshire Regiment, 40746 ,Private

At the time of his death, Alfred’s unit was involved in the later stages of the “Battle of Passchendaele”.

ELGOOD

Archibald Frederick

Private 9520, 1st Bn. Lincolnshire Regiment. Died 26/08/1914, aged 20. Son of Mrs. E. E. Elgood, of 7, Briscoe Rd., Collins Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Cemetery: LA FERTE-SOUS-JOUARRE MEMORIAL.

Archibald Frederick was born in 1894 in Tooting, the second son of William John and Emily Edith (nee Edmonds).

Archibald enlisted Kingston, joining a regular battalion of the Lincolnshire Regiment. As part of the 3rd Division, the 1st Bn. Lincolnshire Regiment was amongst the first units to be sent to France. They fought with distinction at Mons on 23rd August, and at Le Cateau on 26th August, were Archibald is believed to have died. Archibald has no known grave and is commemorated on the La Ferte-Sous-Jouarre Memorial.

ELGOOD

Robert Walter

Private 9060, 2nd Bn. Lincolnshire Regiment. Died 10/03/1915, aged 25. Son of Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Elgood, of Colliers Wood, Merton, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: A. 1. Cemetery: NEUVE-CHAPELLE FARM CEMETERY.

Robert was born in 1890 in Battersea, the first son of William John and Emily Edith (nee Edmonds).

Robert enlisted in London, joining a regular battalion of the Lincolnshire Regiment. At the time of his death, Robert’s unit was involved in the attack at Neuve-Chapelle 10th-12th March 1915. Initial success in breaking into enemy lines could not be turned into a breakthrough. The cost was high, British losses in the four attacking Divisions were 544 officers and 11,108 other ranks killed, wounded and missing. The 2nd Lincolns lost their Co - Lt-Col George McAndrew, killed in action on 14th March 1915.

ELLIOTT

David James

Private 47253, Middlesex Regiment. Secondary Unit Labour Corps, transf. to (136033). Died 27/04/1918, aged 26, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Mitcham. Son of David and Emma Elliott, of 29, Smith's Buildings, Commonside East, Mitcham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: K. 18. Cemetery: MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND.

ELPHICK

Christopher Douglas

Private 7379, 2nd Bn. Honourable Artillery Company. Died 15/05/1917, aged 28. Born Dulwich, Enlisted Dulwich, Resident London. Son of Christopher and Louisa Elphick, of 28, Hillsboro Rd., Dulwich, London; husband of Hilda Kate Elphick, of 68, Garden Avenue, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 1. Cemetery: ARRAS MEMORIAL

EVANS

Hubert William

Second Lieutenant, 6th Bn. The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died 24/05/1917, aged 19. Youngest son of William George and Maria Evans, of Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XVII. A. 20. Cemetery: ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY.

Hubert William was born in 1898, the youngest son of William George and Maria Evans (nee Deacon). The family lived in Streatham Road just before the War, and Hubert’s father was the local Customs and Excise officer in Mitcham.

Hubert first enlisted in as private G/19982 in the East Kent Regiment, and was later promoted to Second Lieutenant. Hubert succumbed to wounds received on the 3rd May at Monchy during the “Battle of Arras”, losses were high in all ranks on this day.

EYLES

F J

No further information currently available

FAIRWEATHER

Henry Charles

Pioneer 62301, 13th Div. Signal Coy. Royal Engineers. Died 09/08/1915, aged 19. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 23 to 25 or 325 to 328. Cemetery: HELLES MEMORIAL.

Henry, known as Harry, was born 6th March 1896, and his birth registered at East Battersea. The son of William and Caroline Fairweather. Henry’s father died of TB before he was born. Henry lived with his mother and brothers, William and Alex and sisters Nana and Emey. The family had lived in Mitcham Road,Tooting before the war.

Harry enlisted in Kingston, joining the Royal Engineers. Harry was lost during the ill-fated Gallipoli campaign. The entire 13th Division had landed at ANZAC cove on 3-5th August 1915, and took part in the Battle of Sari Bair on 6-10th August 1915, and the Battle of Russell’s Top on 7th August 1915. Harry’s brother Alex died of pneumonia in the same year as Harry in Dunfermline whilst serving in the army.

FAWCETT

B G

No further information currently available

FIELD

Thomas

Rifleman O/65, 13th Bn. Rifle Brigade. Died 16/04/1918, aged 19. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Mitcham.Son of Thomas and Caroline Field, of 1, Hancock's Cottages, Commonside, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XXIX. D. 16. Cemetery: ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY.

FIELD

V

No further information currently available

FLECKNEY

Frank

Private 56617, 2nd Bn. Lancashire Fusiliers. Died Death 23/04/1918, aged 19. Born Lambeth, Enlisted Kingston. Son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Fleckney. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 45 and 46. Cemetery: LOOS MEMORIAL.

FLETCHER

John Thomas

Driver T/260090, 836th H.T. Coy. Army Service Corps. Died 19/08/1918, aged 30. Born Isleworth, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Mitcham. Son of Robert and Mary Fletcher, of 13, Steel Rd., Isleworth. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: U. CN. 10. Cemetery: HESTON AND ISLEWORTH (ISLEWORTH) CEMETERY.

FLINT

J

No further information currently available

FOLEY

Leonard Louis

Private G/60976, 17th Bn. Royal Fusiliers. Date of Death: 28/04/1917, aged 35. Son of Arthur and Emily Foley, of 83, Dupont Rd. Raynes Park, London. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 3. Cemetery: ARRAS MEMORIAL.

Leonard was born in 1882 in Battersea, the son of Arthur and Emily Foley and was one of 6 children. In the 1901 census, Leonard's occupation is given as “piano polishing” and the family were still living in Battersea. Leonard resided in Mitcham at the time of his recruitment.

Leonard enlisted in London, and first joined the East Surrey Regiment and later transferred to the “Empire Battalion” of the Royal Fusiliers. This had been first formed in London, 31st August 1914, by the British Empire Committee. At the time of Leonard's death his unit had been involved in the large-scale attack at Arras launched earlier in the month.

FOSTER

Ernest

possibly - Private 32583,"B" Coy. 7th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 22/09/1917, aged 21. Born Farnham, Enlisted Wimbledon. Son of James and Mary A. Foster, of Elm Villa, Hall Mead Rd., Sutton, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 6. Cemetery: ARRAS MEMORIAL.

FOSTER

William

possibly - Lance Corporal 67124, Royal Fusiliers Secondary Regiment: London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers) posted to 2nd Bn. Died 26/10/1917. Born Harrogate, Enlisted London, Resident Merton. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: L. A. 13. Cemetery: POELCAPELLE BRITISH CEMETERY.

Medal card of Foster, William
Corps Regiment No Rank
Army Ordnance Corps SS/8454 Private
London Regiment GS/67124 Private
Royal Fusiliers GS/67124 Private

FOWLER

George William John

Private 245310, 2nd Bn. Manchester Regiment. Died 19/04/1918, aged 19. Born Kennington, Enlisted Wandsworth, Resident Merton. Son of James H. and Alice Fowler, of "Willbert," Grange Avenue, Wickford, Essex. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. B. 8. Cemetery: DOUCHY-LES-AYETTE BRITISH CEMETERY

FOX

D

No further information currently available

FOX

Frederick A

Gunner 218659, 121st Bde Royal Field Artillery. Died 11/04/1918. Enlisted Mitcham, Resident Mitcham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. A. 33. Cemetery: LA KREULE MILITARY CEMETERY, HAZEBROUCK.

FROST

Walter Reginald

Private 46754, 1st/4th Bn. York and Lancaster Regiment. Died 13/10/1918, aged 18. Born Southend, Enlisted Whitehall, Resident Mitcham. Son of Walter James Frost, of 38, Caithness Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: D. 17. Cemetery: YORK CEMETERY, HASPRES

GARDNER

Arthur

Private 25182, 1st Bn. The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 14/09/1918, aged 19. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XIII. E. 29. Cemetery: COLOGNE SOUTHERN CEMETERY.

Arthur was born in 1899 in Mitcham, the fifth son of William and Louisa Gardner. The family had lived in Fountain Road Mitcham for at least ten years before the War.

Arthur enlisted in Wimbledon, joining a regular battalion of the Queen's. At the time of Arthur’s death his unit was involved in the Sept. 1918 assault of the Hindenburg line.

GARDNER

John

Private 6736, "B" Coy. 1st Bn East Surrey Regiment. Died 25/09/1916, aged 25. Son of William and Louisa Gardner, of 44, Fountain Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 6 B and 6 C. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

John was born in 1891 in Mitcham, the second son of William and Louisa Gardner.

John enlisted in Kingston, joining a regular battalion of the East Surrey Regiment. At the time of John’s death his unit was involved in the attack on Morval on the Somme. Records show:

“[They] advanced at 12.35pm - "B" Company checked by enfilade fire, support companies pushed on and objectives gained. Relieved and to Oxford Copse on 26th.”

GARRATT

Joseph

Private 24930, 9th Bn.East Surrey Regiment. Died 05/08/1917, aged 20. Son of Mr. A. and Mrs. E. Garratt, of 59, Denison Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 34. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

GATES

Alexander Harold

Serjeant 9277, 2nd Bn Gloucestershire Regiment. Died 02/09/1918, aged 29. Born Brixton, Enlisted London. Son of Edward and Charlotte Gates, of Brixton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: D. 936. Cemetery: KARASOULI MILITARY CEMETERY.

GATES

George Walter

possibly - Serjeant 8603 7th Bn., Gloucestershire Regiment. Died 11/04/1917, aged 28. Born Lambeth, Enlisted London. Son of Mrs. M. Gates, of The Old Mill House, Hawkspur Green, Little Bardfield, Braintree, Essex; husband of Rose Taylor (formerly Gates), of 19A, Hythe Rd., Thornton Heath, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 17. Cemetery: BASRA MEMORIAL.

GAYNER

Arthur Edwin

Private 46185, 11th Bn. Royal Fusiliers. Died 17/02/1917. Born Chelsea, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Wimbledon. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 8 C 9 A and 16 A. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

GEAR

Robert Joseph

Lance 701453 (4310), 2nd/23rd Bn. London Regiment. Died 07/11/1917, aged 26. Son of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Gear, of 31, Huntspill St., Garratt Lane, Tooting, London. Enlisted Clapham Junction, Resident Mitcham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panels 47 to 53. Cemetery: JERUSALEM MEMORIAL

GEDDGE

Cecil Bertie

Second Lieutenant, 3rd Bn. London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). Died 25/09/1915. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 130. Cemetery: LOOS MEMORIAL.

Cecil Bertie was born on 20th Feb. 1866 at Mitcham Hall, the son of Sydney and Augusta and only surviving child. Sydney was still living and working as a solicitor in Mitcham just before the War.

Cecil was educated at Eton and Trinity College Cambridge. After graduating, he became a barrister and practised on the South-Eastern Circuit and at the Essex and Herts. sessions. The year after he had been called to the bar, he married Jessie Catherine Bickley Rogers at St. Margaret’s Westminster on 6 August 1892. They had a daughter Sydney Jessie born 12th Sept. 1893.

Cecil joined the Sportsman’s Battalion on 9th Oct 1914; was gazetted 2nd Lieut. 3rd London Regt. 1 April 1915; went to France in June when he was attached to the Grenadier Coy., Garhwal Brigade, and was killed in action at the Battle of Loos 25th Sept.

De Ruvingy’s Roll of honour states:

“He was wounded by shrapnel early in the morning, but refused to go back. He just had his men bind him up, and when the order came to go over the top the parapet, he lead his men over and was not seen again”

GIBBONS

Percy James

possibly - Second Lieutenant, 3rd Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Secondary Regiment: attd. 11th Bn. Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment). Died 07/10/1916, aged 28. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 6 B and 6 C. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

Percy’s Medal Index Card shows these units:

Medal card of Gibbons, Percy James:
17th Royal Fusiliers E/125 Serjeant
17th Royal Fusiliers E/125 Serjeant
East Surrey Regiment attached Royal West Kent
Regiment Second Lieutenant

At the time of Percy’s death, his unit was attacking the “Gird Trench System” near the “the Butte de Warlencourt” on the Somme. The attack was very costly. The regimental history records:

“P.J. Gibbons joined the battalion after the attacks of 15th-16th September along with 2nd Lt. S.A. Wheeler, both from the East Surreys.

The attack began at 1:35pm on a two company front with zero hour at 1:45pm. On breasting the brow of a rise they came under heavy machine gun fire from both flanks and the new trench in front. 3/4 of the battalion were hit and all the company officers except one. 16 officers and 465 men who went into action this day.”

Total Casualties: 13 Officers, 323 O.R.

GIBBS

George Edwin

Private G/40252 (5585), 20th Bn. Middlesex Regiment.: Died 26/03/1918, aged 28. Son of Mr. and Mrs. S. Gibbs, of 63, Hawthorn Rd., Hornsey, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 7. Cemetery: ARRAS MEMORIAL.

GIBBS, MM

Charles Edward

Lance Corporal 22838, 1st Battalion, Border Regiment. Killed in action 19th May 1917. Born Clerkenwell, Middlesex, enlisted London, resident Tooting Junction, Surrey. Resident of 28 Pitcairn Road, Mitcham. Awarded the Military Medal (M.M.). Formerly 9369, East Surrey Regiment. No known grave. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMROIAL, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 6.

GILBERT

William Bex

Private 30159, 8th Bn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Died 25/01/1917, aged 25. Born Lambeth, Enlisted Mitcham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XXV. Cemetery: AMARA WAR CEMETERY.

GILKS

Walter

Private 25392, 1st Bn. The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 3/04/1918, aged 19. Son of Ellen Gilks, of 12, Heaton Rd., Gorringe Park, Mitcham, London, and the late Thomas Gilks. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XXVI. F. 5A. Cemetery: LIJSSENTHOEK MILITARY CEMETERY.

GILLETT

George Hamilton

possibly - Rifleman 41726, 12th Bn. Regiment: Royal Irish Rifles. Died 18/06/1918, aged 20. Born Kensington, Enlisted Wandsworth. Formerly 33372, East Surrey Regiment. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. F. 16. Cemetery: NIEDERZWEHREN CEMETERY.

GLADSTONE

John W

Private 40584, 3rd Bn. Dorsetshire Regiment. Secondary Regiment: 8th Bn. The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 18/01/1919, aged 20. Son of Harry and Alice Gladstone, of 131, High St., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Enlisted 1914. Born at Tooting, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: W. 203. Cemetery: MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND.

GLASS

James Fraser

Second Lieutenant, 2nd Bn. Regiment: Seaforth. Died 26/04/1915, aged 23. Son of J. G. H. Glass, Esq., C.I.E. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. M. 55. Cemetery: POPERINGHE OLD MILITARY CEMETERY.

James Fraser was born in 1882 in Ealing, the third son of James and Eliza Glass. James’ parents had married in India, where his father had been a chief engineer before the returning to England. The family resided at “The Canons”, Mitcham, one of the area’s more notable houses, before the War.

On the 25th April 1915 the 2nd Seaforths took part in an attack on St.Julien in the Ypres Salient. Commencing at 4 a.m, the attack drew heavy fire almost immediately. Limited progress was made against severe machine gun fire and heavy artillery fire, loses were considerable. Casualties in all ranks - 338 killed, wounded or missing.

James Fraser was mentioned in dispatches, and notice of his death appeared in the Times on Friday, May 7, 1915 with this simple text:

“GLASS - On the 26th April,[died] of wounds received in action near Ypres on April 25th, JAMES FRASER GLASS, Lieutenant, 2nd Battalion Seaforth Highlanders, son of the late J. G. H. Glass C.I.E., aged 23.”

Notice of his appointment to Temporary Lieutenant did not appear in the London Gazette until after his death on 29 July, 1915.

GLOVER

Mark

Rifleman A/203858, 18th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Regiment. Died 11/08/1918, aged 31. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Extension to XXV. B. 21. Cemetery: LIJSSENTHOEK MILITARY CEMETERY. 

Mark was born in Mitcham in 1887, the son of Arthur Alfred and Elizabeth Glover (Nee. Kenning) there were also four sisters, Elizabeth, Dorothy, Ada and Elsie and brother Willie.

Mark enlisted in Kingston and first joined Royal Army Service Corps. He appears to have transferred later to the King's Royal Rifle Regiment along with his brother. The 18th service battalion was nicknamed the “Arts and Crafts” and had first been formed at Gidea Park, near Romford, on 4 June 1915. Mark's unit was holding a sector near Ypres at the time of his death.

GLOVER

William

Rifleman A/203833, 18th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Regiment. Died 10/05/1918, aged 30. Son of Arthur Alfred and Elizabeth Glover, of 11, Queen's Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. D. 3. Cemetery: BRANDHOEK NEW MILITARY CEMETERY No.3.

William was the younger brother of Mark, born the year before. He enlisted in Wimbledon and first joined the Army Ordnance Corps but then transferred to the 18th King's Royal Rifle Corps at the same time as his brother Mark. William's unit was holding a sector near Ypres at the time of his death.

GOATCHER

Alfred Percy

Private 32339, 8th Bn East Surrey Regiment. Died 07/08/1918, aged 33. Husband of Elizabeth Emma Goatcher, of 6, Gosberton Rd., Balham. London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 44 and 45. Cemetery: POZIERES MEMORIAL

Alfred was born in 1884 in New Cross, and worked as an office clerk before marrying Elizabeth.

Alfred was living in Mitcham when he enlisted in Kingston, joining a service battalion of the East Surrey Regiment, first formed at Kingston-upon-Thames in September 1914, as part of K2.

Alfred died on the eve of the “Battle Amiens” (8-11 August 1918).

GODDARD

Orion

Private 21175, 17th Bn. Royal Fusiliers. Died 21/08/1916, aged 24. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. A. 9. Cemetery: ABBEVILLE COMMUNAL CEMETERY.

Orion was born in 1892 in Wandsworth, the son of Frederick J and Sarah Goddard. The family were well established in Mitcham before the War.

Orion enlisted in London, joining a service battalion of the Royal Fusiliers, the “Empire Battalion”. First formed in London, 31st August 1914, by the British Empire Committee.

It is not known exactly when or where Orion was wounded, but his unit had been in the trenches at Picquigny (14th Aug), Flesselles (16th Aug), and trenches at La Signy Farm, Beaumont Hamel sector from 20th Aug.

GODFREY

Alfred K

Private 2725, 7th Bn.Essex Regiment. Date of Died 31/08/1915, aged 27. Son of the late John and Louisa Mary Godfrey, of 51, Warren Rd., Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 144 to 150 or 229 to 233. Cemetery: HELLES MEMORIAL.

Alfred was born in 1889 in Clapham, the third son of Charles and Louisa Godfrey.

Alfred enlisted in Walthamstow, joining a service battalion of the Essesx Regiment. The 7th Bn. Essex Regiment landed at Suvla Bay on August 11th, 1915 on “A” beach and “A” beach West and took up positions in a reserve line. On August 14th (in full daylight!) they marched to the front line to relieve the 163rd Brigade. It is not known exactly where or when Alfred was fatally wounded. But over the next days the 7th suffered several casualties. On August 27th they were back in reserve. Two days later they transferred to a beach near a place called Lala Baba. But early in the morning of the 30th August a tragic incident occurred:

“When the rations came along next morning there was an issue of bread, to the great delight of the troops. Unluckily, just as the food was being distributed, a shell came over and burst right in a group of men, causing some 43 casualties, of whom eight were killed. It was the most severe day’s loss so far of the campaign and cast a gloom over everyone".

GODFREY

Charles Valentine

Private 632902 (5932), "A" Coy. 20th Bn. London Regiment. Died 01/09/1918, aged 31. Husband of Amy Violet Godfrey, of 191, Sellincourt Rd., Tooting, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: VIII. B. 34. Cemetery: DAOURS COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION.

Charles Valentine was born in 1887 in Clapham, the second son of John and Louisa Godfrey. Charles married Amy settling in Mitcham.

Charles enlisted in Mitcham, joining a battalion of the London Regiment Territorials (Blackheath and Woolwich). It is not known exactly where or when Charles was fatally wounded.

GODWIN

Alfred G

Rifleman S/9765, 3rd Bn. Rifle Brigade Unit Text: Died 11/09/1915, aged 17. Son of William and Rose M. Godwin, of 21, Denison Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. B. 41A. Cemetery: LIJSSENTHOEK MILITARY CEMETERY.

GODWIN

William A

Gunner 2704, 12th (London) Bty. 235th Bde. Royal Field Artillery. Died 16/09/1916. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. F. 46. Cemetery: FLATIRON COPSE CEMETERY, MAMETZ.

GOVER

Henry James

Private 2854, 1st/23rd Bn. London Regiment. Age: Died 28/09/1915, aged 40. Born Clapham Junction, Enlisted Mitcham. Son of the late Henry George and Rebecca Gover; husband of Ellen Margaret Gover, of 46, Inglemere Rd., Gorringe Park, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 130 to 135. Cemetery: LOOS MEMORIAL.

GOWAR

Donald Gordon

Private 37029, 3rd Bn. Norfolk Regiment. Died at Sea 30/12/1917, aged 19. Born Lewisham, Enlisted Kingston. Son of M. M. Gowar, of 11, Caithness Rd., Streatham Rd., Mitcham, Surrey, and the late George Joseph Gowar. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: F. 79. Cemetery: ALEXANDRIA (HADRA) WAR MEMORIAL CEMETERY

GOWER

Maurice [Henry]

Rifleman 5/33338, Rifle Brigade. Secondary Regiment: attd. London Regiment (Artists' Rifles). Died 28/04/1918, aged 34. Born Clapham, Enlisted London, Resident Chesham Bucks. Husband of Mabel Edith Gower, of 35A, Garden Avenue, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: F. 77. Cemetery: CHESHAM BURIAL GROUND.

GRAY

G

No further information currently available

GREEN

A

No further information currently available

GREIG

A

No further information currently available

GRIFFITHS

C R

No further information currently available

GRIFFITHS

Ethelbert George

Private 30040, 9th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 02/08/1917. Born Camberwell, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Tooting Junction. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 34. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

GRIFFITHS

John Learwood

Private 531951 (4551), 1st/15th Bn. London Regiment (Prince of Wales' Own Civil Service Rifles). Died 07/10/1916. Enlisted London, Resident Tooting. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 13 C. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

HABLIN

F

No further information currently available

HACK

Henry John

Private 18334 (18364?), 13th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 09/04/1918, aged 28. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Kingston. Son of Alice Hack, of 2, Western Terrace, Western Rd., Mitcham, and the late William Henry Hack. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 6. Cemetery: PLOEGSTEERT MEMORIAL.

HALE

Percy John

Private 5232, No. 1 Coy. Honourable Artillery Company. Died 15/03/1917, aged 26. Enlisted Armoury house, Resident Mitcham. Husband of Agnes Clarissa Hale, of 12, Rumbold Villas, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: V. J. 27. Cemetery: GOMMECOURT BRITISH CEMETERY No.2, HEBUTERNE.

HALL

Charles

Private G/14476, 9th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 22/06/1916, aged 34. Born Merton, Enlisted Kingston. Native of Tooting, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: VIII. B. 17. Cemetery: BOULOGNE EASTERN CEMETERY

HALL

L

possibly - Stoker 1st Class 298848, Royal Navy (RFR/PO/B/6455). H.M.S. "Invincible." Died 31/05/1916. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: 18. Cemetery: PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL.

HALL

L H

No further information currently available

HALLETT

Frederick Field

Private 89649, 2nd/3rd (Wessex) Field Amb. Royal Army Medical Corps. Died 28/06/1918, aged 29. Born London, Enlisted Chelsea, Resident Lavender Hill. Son of James and Sarah Hallett, of Battersea, London; husband of Alice Emily Tickner (formerly Hallett), of 17, Kilburn Park Rd., London, N.W. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: D. 1. Cemetery: COUIN NEW BRITISH CEMETERY.

HALLS

John Buxton

Petty Officer 184724. H.M.S. "Vanguard." Royal Navy. Died 09/07/1917. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: 21. Cemetery: CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL

H.M.S Vanguard (the eighth Vanguard) was built by Vickers at barrow and launched in April 1909 and joined the Royal Navy at Devonport in October 1910. She saw all her service in the Home Fleet. Part of the St Vincent Class of Battleship a further improvement on the HMS Dreadnaught, powered by Turbine Engines.

At the outbreak of war she formed part of the 1st battle squadron at Scapa Flow. HMS Vanguard took part in the “Battle of Jutland” as part of the 4th Battle Squadron. She took part in the action from beginning to the end and did not suffer any damage or casualties.

But her service was cut short when she blew up at Scapa Flow on the 9th July 1917 (about 10 pm), it is thought due to spontaneous ignition of her Cordite. From her crew of 823, only 19 survived.

HAMBLETON

Charles

Private 301998 (8/6378), 1st/8th Bn. Durham Light Infantry. Died 14/04/1917, aged 24. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: F. 7. Cemetery: HENINEL COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION.

Charles was born in 1893 in Newington/Southwark, the son of Albert and Susannah Hambleton.

Charles enlisted in Deptford, joining a territorial battalion of the DLI, part of the 50th Division.

Heninel village, 10 kilometres south-east of Arras, was captured in a snowstorm on 12 April 1917 by the 56th (London) and 21st Division and the 50th (Northumbrian) Division, advancing from Heninel on the two following days, captured Wancourt Tower. Charles was KIA at this time.

HAMBLETON

Edward

Serjeant 17442, 12th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 05/08/1917, aged 21. Son of Albert and Susannah Hambleton, of 63, Seely Rd., Tooting, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 34. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

Edward was born in 1896 in Newington/Walworth, the son of Albert and Susannah Hambleton.

Edward enlisted in Kingston, joining a service battalion of the East Surreys. The 12th, nicknamed the Bermondsy Bn., was first formed formed at Bermondsey, 14 May 1915, by the Mayor and Borough.

On 1st of August Edward’s unit moved into the line in front of Hollebeke extending to Forret Farm. On the 5th they were attacked in thick mist by the Germans and lost the line, regaining it later in the day with the help of a battalion of the Hampshires.

Edward was killed in action at this time.

HANDLEY

Robert

Private 95272, "G" Bn. Tank Corps. Died 02/08/1917, aged 23. Son of George William and Emma Handley, of 5, Heaton Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 56. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

Robert was born in 1893 in Camberwell, the son of George and Emma Handley.

Robert enlisted in London, joining the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry as private 12361. He later transferred, with a group of other DCLI men, to one of the newly expanded Tank Battalions.

Tanks of G Battalion where in action in the “Battle of Pilckem” in the opening days of the “Third Ypres”. Operating in adverse conditions the Tanks were used in support of the 51st and 39th Division who attacked in the St. Julien sector on 31st July 1917.

They helped to suppress and knock-out pill-boxes and other enemy strong points. But many machines got bogged down and became easy targets. Robert was killed in action at this time.

HANNINGTON

William H

No further information currently available

HANWELL

Albert Victor

Private 19100, 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 25/09/1916. Born Clapham, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Merton. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 6 B and 6 C. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

HARDY

William Andrew

Air Mechanic 1st Class, 27330, 3rd Balloon Wing Royal Air Force. Died 30/11/1918, aged 33. Son of John and Rosa Hardy, of Woodford Green, Essex; husband of Gertrude E. Hardy, of Winchester House, 59, Albert Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. E. 9. Cemetery: SOLESMES BRITISH CEMETERY.

HARRAWAY

William Edward

Sapper 146186, 205th Field Coy. Royal Engineers. Died 23/04/1918, aged 21. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Southwark, Resident Mitcham. Son of Mr. and Mrs. James Harraway, of 1, Lime Tree Cottages, London Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. D. 34. Cemetery: MARTINSART BRITISH CEMETERY.

HARRISON

John William [Hyde]

Corporal 120661, 4th Bn. Special Bde. Royal Engineers. Died 13/11/1916, aged 18. Born Mossley LANCS, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Merton. Son of Arthur W. Harrison, M.D., of 91, Devonshire Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. J. 4. Cemetery: WARLINCOURT HALTE BRITISH CEMETERY, SAULTY

HARRISON

Percy

Private 48081, 2nd Bn. Lancashire Fusiliers. Died 17/06/1918, aged 20. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Kingston. Formerly 10706 East Surrey, and 45052 Bedfordshire Regiment. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: X. A. 16. Cemetery: LAPUGNOY MILITARY CEMETERY

HARRISON

William Henry

possilby - Rifleman R/13413, 9th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Corps. Died 15/09/1916. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 13 A and 13 B. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

HATTON

B

No further information currently available

HATTON

Ernest Robert

Second Lieutenant Regiment: Wiltshire Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn. Age: 39 Date of Death: 08/05/1918 Additional information: Husband of Mrs. T. Hatton, of "Rondos," Dorset Rd., Merton Park, Surrey. Eighteen years service with 17th Lancers. Served in the South African Campaign. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 119 to 120. Cemetery: TYNE COT MEMORIAL.

Ernest was an experienced soldier promoted to Second Lieutenant during the Great War. The War Diary of the 2nd Bn. Wiltshire Regiment for the Thursday 9th May 1918 records:

“Quiet day. The party attached to 2nd BEDFORDSHIRE Regt rejoined in the evening. This party consisted of 2/Lieuts RS GALLIERS and AC DAVIE and 71 Other Ranks. It was ascertained that this party had been in action on the 8th inst & sustained the following casualties:- 2/Lieut EW PLUMMER and ER HATTON wounded. 7 O Ranks killed, 18 wounded and 37 missing.”

The War Diary of the 2nd Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment for the Wednesday 8th May 1918 records:

“8 May 1918 [Front Line near Vierstraat]
At 3.0 a.m. enemy put down a barrage with gas shells on Reserve position which drifted back on Front Line.
At 4.10 a.m. he put down very heavy barrage on Front Line with Trench Mortars, 5.9's which lasted 4 hours.
About 7.30 a.m. enemy Infantry attacked using Flammenwerfer forcing the French to retire which left our Right flank exposed, our two Front Companies had to fall back to our Support Line which eventually became the Front Line.
No.1 Coy. had to form a defensive flank to stop the enemy from penetrating our Support Line. At 7.0 p.m. a Counter-attack was launched by the French and ourselves to try and re-establish our original Front Line, which failed.
The enemy's artillery kept up an intense bombardment right through the day causing very heavy casualties to the Battalion
Total Casualties 7 Officers 170 Other Ranks
At night the enemy quietened down the Battalion still holding the Support Line.
2/Lieut.W.F.Billingham Wounded.
2/Lieut.A.J.H.Rogers Wounded.
2/Lieut.F.C.Baldwin Wounded
2/Lieut.A.Baker Missing.
3 Officers 2/Wilts Regt.”

HAWKINS

Frederick William

Private G/8712, 2nd Bn. Middlesex Regiment. Died 01/07/1916, aged 27. Born Islingston, Enlisted Gravesend. Son of R. J. Hawkins, of 14, Vicfolk St., Islington, London; husband of Elizabeth Mary Ann Hawkins, of 7, Western Rd., Upper Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 12 D and 13 B. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

HAYDEN

Herbert William

Private 6713, 8th Bn. Royal Fusiliers. Died 18/03/1916, aged 24. Son of Mr. and Mrs. G. Hayden, of 32, Park Rd., Collier's Wood, Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. L. 4. Cemetery: VERMELLES BRITISH CEMETERY.

HENN

Frank

Private S/9530, 2nd Bn. Seaforth Highlanders. Died 11/04/1917, aged 39. Son of John and Eliza Henn, of Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. C. 21. Cemetery: BROWN'S COPSE CEMETERY, ROEUX.

Frank was born in 1878 in Mitcham, the son of John (died 1884), a Shepherd, and Eliza Henn. The family had lived in Mitcham since the 1880’s.

Frank enlisted in Wimbledon, joining a regular battalion of the Seaforths. Records show

“4th Division's 10th Infantry Brigade, comprising the 2nd Seaforth Highlanders and 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers, attacked from Fampoux towards the heavily defended Chemical Works at Roeux on the 11th April 1917, with disastrous results. By the end of the day 2nd Seaforths had ceased to exist, and the other units involved had been decimated.”

HERMITAGE

Y

No further information currently available

HICKS

Lionel J

Private 5180, 1st Bn. London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). Died 27/05/1916. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 9 D and 16 B. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

Lionel was born in 1892 in Slough, the fourth son of George and Mary Hicks who had kept shop at various locations around the country before coming to Mitcham.

Lionel enlisted at Handel Street WC 1, the centre of the 1st Battalion of the London Regiment, Territorial Force. At the time of his death, Lionel’s unit was making preparations for their part in the Somme offensive. Lionel was a casualty suffered when the 167th Brigade spent three nights at the end of May (25th-27th) digging a new front line trench + communication trenches in preparation for the attack. Bill MacCormick states:

“It was the battalions on the right whose work was again the most disrupted by enemy action and, at about 2.00 AM, as the working parties made their way back through the gaps in the wire, a brief burst of heavy shelling fell amongst the men queuing to get through. Even so, casualties were still mercifully light amongst the 2,500 men who had been digging so earnestly within point blank range of German Mausers, Maxims and Mortars. Worst hit were the 1/1st Londons in A sector. Private Miller recorded the details with understated brevity:
"While waiting in the end of Woman Street, Col. said got to be done tonight or would be another night (God forbid). Went out and all much same as last night. Bit hotter maybe. Potter killed and some more casualties, about 40. Got back safely. Slept till 12.”
In all, the battalion suffered ten dead and one officer and 23 men wounded.”

HICKS

Rowland William

Private 5191, 1st Bn. London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). Died 05/06/1916, aged 26. Son of Mary Elizabeth and the late George Hicks, of 14, High St., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. C. 19. Cemetery: DOULLENS COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION No.1.

Rowland was born in 1890 in Deptford, the third son of George and Mary Hicks.

Rowland appears to have enlisted with his brother at Handel Street WC1, and is believed to have been in A Company. Bill MacCormick states:

“Rowland Hicks died of wounds when men of the 1/1st were caught by a minenwerfer attack whilst acting as a working party in the trenches outside Hebuterne.”

HIGGINS

C C

No further information currently available

HIGGINS

David Henry

Lance Corporal R/800, 9th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 27/03/1918, aged 20. Born Clapham, Enlisted Kingston. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 44 and 45. Cemetery: POZIERES MEMORIAL.

HILLS

G A

No further information currently available

HINES

Harry

Rifleman 46474, "C Coy. 3rd Bn. Rifle Brigade. Died 25/05/1918, aged 19. Son of Alfred and Mary Ellen Hines, of 101, Phipps Bridge Rd., Merton, London. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. O. 20. Cemetery: MAROC BRITISH CEMETERY, GRENAY. 

Harry was born in Mitcham, the son of Alfred and Mary Ellen Hines. Harry's father Alfred was from Suffolk, but he had settled in Mitcham and married Mary where the family remained.

Harry had enlisted in Kingston and joined a regular battalion. At the time of Harry's death his unit was in the line to the south east and south of Loos near Lens. Accounts say - “The first few weeks were a very anxious time as the enemy was expected to attack at any moment and consequently defence schemes and extra working parties for the purpose of digging out and reconstructing old trenches were very numerous.”

HINKLEY

Edward John

Private 2417, 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 29/07/1916, aged 20. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Mitcham. Son of George and Annie E. Hinkley, of 1, Douglas Cottages, Love Lane, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 6 B and 6 C. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

HITCHCOCK

W

No further information currently available

HOBART

Albert Gordon

Airman 2nd Class 17034, 13th Balloon Coy: Royal Flying Corps. Died 13/11/1917, aged 20. Son of A. Hobart, of 2, Willow Lodge, Mitcham Junction, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. F. 21. Cemetery: CANADA FARM CEMETERY.

HOBBS

George

Private 30258, 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 04/10/1917. Born Fulham, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Mitcham Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 79 to 80 and 163A. Cemetery: TYNE COT MEMORIAL.

HOGFRESS

Charlie Mears

Rifleman 653245 (6765), 21st Bn. London Regiment (First Surrey Rifles). Died 30/12/1917, aged 21. Born Tooting, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Merton. Son of Charles Edward and Clara Hogfress, of 22, Fortescue Rd., Merton, London. Commonwealth War Dead Cemetery: CHATBY MEMORIAL

HOGG

Ernest Frank

Private 3337, 1st Bn. London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). Died 10/05/1915, aged 18. Son of Charles N. and Ellen Hogg, of 16, Crusoe Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 10. Cemetery: PLOEGSTEERT MEMORIAL.

Ernest was born in 1897 in Battersea, the son of Charles an Ellen Hogg.

Ernest enlisted at Handel St. WC1, the Territorial Force centre of the 1st Bn. London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers) and was known to be a resident of Mitcham.

At the time of his death, Ernest’s unit was involved in an attack south of Rue Petillon. The assault was met by heavy fire upon leaving the assembly positions, 3 officers and 120 men were lost.

HOGG

Horace Walter

Driver 9673, 57th Bty. 45th Bde.Royal Field Artillery. Died 20/06/1917, aged 26. Son of Charles Nathaniel and Ellen Hogg, of 16, Crusoe Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 5 and 9. Cemetery: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL.

Horace was born in 1891 in Battersea, the son of Charles an Ellen Hogg.

Ernest enlisted in Kingston, joining the Royal Field Artillery and was known to be a resident of Mitcham.

Horace’s unit was one of four Artillery Brigades that served with the 8th Division who had fought at Neuve-Chappell in 1915, and on the Somme in 1916, and in mid-1917 the 8th Division moved to the Ypres Salient, and served at 'Plugstreet Wood' and then at the “Third Battle of Ypres”. Horace was killed in action at this time, and has no known grave.

HOLDSWORTH

William C

No further information currently available

HOLLAMBY

Ernest Henry

Private 231726 (4411), 2nd/2nd Bn. London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). Died 16/06/1917, aged 21. Born Southwark, Enlisted Westminster Resident Southwark. Son of Alfred Hollamby, of 3, Ladysmith's Maisonettes, 19, Robinson Rd., Tooting, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 9. Cemetery: ARRAS MEMORIAL.

HOLLAND

Richard Edward

Second Lieutenant, 1st Bn. Middlesex Regiment. Died 24/10/1918, aged 22. Son of Richard Arthur and Ada Elizabeth Holland, of 96, Melrose Avenue, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: IV. B. 8. Cemetery: MONTAY-NEUVILLY ROAD CEMETERY, MONTAY.

Richard was born in 1896 in Tottenham, the son of Richard Arthur and Ada Elizabeth Holland. The family had lived in Croydon and Mitcham before the War.

Richard first enlisted in the London Regiment as private 1991, later earning a commission to the Middlesex Regiment, the “Die Hards”.

One of the last battles in which the 1st Middlesex were involved was the “Battle of the Selle” 17th-25th October.

On the 23th October the 1st Middlesex were to lead the assault by capturing the village of Forest. Records show:

“At 4 a.m. on the 24th the advance was continued. The enemy's machine-gun fire was extremely heavy, as they advanced and many were shot down. At 7.25 am. Captain Broad reported that he had "D" Company with "C" Company-totalling only fifty men. At about 9.15 a.m the battalion had halted to reorganise. During the two days fighting Captain F. Broad, Lieut. A. C. T. Kroenig and 2/Lieut. R. E. Holland had been killed; Lieut. A. A. T. Harris had been so severely wounded that he died on the 24th. Lieut. F. J. Smith had also been wounded, while 2/Lieut. C. E. Cade was missing.”

By the 25th of October,

"The Battalion was reorganised as a company under the following officers-Lieut. Tatham (commanding), Lieut. Dobbs and 2/Lieut. Jarvis. The strength of the company was as follows: "A" Company, 1 officer and 30 men; "B" Company, 2 officers and 30 men; "C" Company, 1 officer and 42 men, and "D" Company, 2 officers and 40 men."

HOLLAND

Sidney Herbert

Private 22452, "C" Coy. 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 24/01/1917, aged 37. Born Battersea, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Mitcham. Son of Robert Maxwell Holland and Sarah Holland; husband of Charlotte Louisa Holland, of 6, Clarendon Grove, Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. E. 20. Cemetery: GORRE BRITISH AND INDIAN CEMETERY.

HOOKINGS

Henry [William]

possibly - Serjeant 1823, 2nd Bn. Manchester Regiment. Died 13/07/1916, aged 24. Born Battersea, Enlisted London, Resident BatterseaSon of William and Julia Hookings, of 50, Austin Rd., Battersea, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: C.E. D. 29. Cemetery: BORDON MILITARY CEMETERY.

HOOKINS

Albert Henry

Private 6353, 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 28/07/1916, aged 31. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Kingston. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 6 B and 6 C. Cemetery: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL.

HOPE

Frederick John

Private 55521, 197th Coy. Machine Gun Corps. Died 06/05/1917, aged 33. Born Marylebone, Enlisted Mitcham, Resident Merton. Son of Elizabeth Hope, of Croydon; husband of Nellie Hope, of 80, Devonshire Rd., Merton, London. Native of Croydon. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XVIII. K. 8A. Cemetery: ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY.

HOPKINS

Herbert Charles

Lance Serjeant 683594, 22nd Bn. London Regiment. Died 21/03/1918, aged 28. Born Kennington, Enlisted Kennington, Resident Mitcham. Formerly 271545, 3/24th London Regt. Son of William and Elizabeth A. Hopkins, of Institute Lodge, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Native of Lambeth, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: IV. J. 13. Cemetery: UNICORN CEMETERY, VEND'HUILE.

HOPKINS

J D

No further information currently available

HOPSON

James Thomas

Leading Seaman J/232, H.M.S. "Queen Mary." Royal Navy. Died 31/05/1916, aged 24. Son of Annie J. Hopson, of 69, St. Mary's Rd., Plaistow, London, and the late James R. Hopson. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: 12. Cemetery: PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL.

James Thomas was lost during the “Battle of Jutland”. His ship, H.M.S. "Queen Mary", blew up after receiving direct hits from the German ships Seydlitz and Derfflinger. There were only 9 survivors from a crew of over a thousand men.

HORSFALL

H

No further information currently available

HORSLEY

Lawrence John

Private M2/103066, 605th M.T. Coy. Army Service Corps. Died 08/01/1916, aged 26. Born Lambeth, Enlisted London, Resident Mitcham. Son of Arthur and Christina Horsley, of Red Lodge, London Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Cemetery: HOLLYBROOK MEMORIAL, SOUTHAMPTON.

HOWE

Frederick

Rifleman Y/1503, 7th Bn. King's Royal Rifle Corps. Died 21/08/1916, aged 19. Born Bermondsey, Enlisted Shoreditch Resident Tooting. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. F. 45. Cemetery: HEILLY STATION CEMETERY, MERICOURT-L'ABBE. See more about Frederick Howe

HOWE

George James

Private 291252, 11th Bn.Suffolk Regiment. Date of Died 24/04/1918, aged 20. Born Mitcham, Enlisted Lambeth. Formerly Private 20119 King’s Shropshire Light Infantry. Son of Alfred Edward and Elizabeth Howe, of 5, Sibthorpe Rd., Mitcham. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: J. 11. Cemetery: MITCHAM (CHURCH ROAD) BURIAL GROUND.

HOWSE

Wallace James

[Listed a J W HOSWE on memorial] Serjeant 10966, 2nd Bn. Worcestershire Regiment. Died 02/10/1914, aged 23. Born Mitcham, Enlisted London, Resident Kennington. Son of Mrs. Louisa Cook (formerly Howse), of 84, Courtenay St., Kennington, London, and the late Mr. A. Howse. Native of Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: A. 45. Cemetery: LE MANS WEST CEMETERY.

HUGHES

C

No further information currently available

HUMPHREY

W

No further information currently available

Private 22458, 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 24/01/1917, aged 36. Born Battersea, Enlisted Kingston, Resident Merton. Son of Samuel and Emily Humphrey, of Battersea, London; husband of Elizabeth Humphrey, of 42, Caister Rd., Balham, London. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. E. 19. Cemetery: GORRE BRITISH AND INDIAN CEMETERY

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

KEEP

George Henry

Private G/10055, 13th Bn. Middlesex Regiment. 19 Died 28/09/1915, aged 19. Son of William and Rose Keep, of 227, Haydons Rd., Wimbledon; husband of E. Green (formerly Keep), of 80, Lavender Avenue, London Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 99 to 101. Cemetery: LOOS MEMORIAL. 

George Henry was born in Wimbledon in 1898, son of William and Rose Keep. The family were living in Haydons Road Wimbledon were they stayed for at least another twenty years.

George enlisted in Kingston and joined a service battalion of the Middlesex Regiment. George was lost at Loos after being in France for just three weeks. He left a wife and a three month old son. He had two brothers who also served. Robert Keep was a Royal Marine and was killed in 1918 aged 18 whilst on board the HMS Louvain which was torpedoed by an enemy submarine. His name is on the naval memorial at Chatham. George’s elder brother Joseph Keep was a regular who fought with the 4th Bn. Middlesex Regiment at Mons and survived the war. He was awarded a DCM, being gazetted on 10th March 1916.

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

LAWSON

Frederick George

Private 9728, 2nd Bn. Royal Scots Fusiliers. Died 24/10/1914, aged 22. Son of William Walter and Ellen Mary Lawson, of 27, Norfolk Rd., Merton, London. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. A. 4. Cemetery: KEMMEL No.1 FRENCH CEMETERY.

Frederick George was born in 1892 in Wandsworth, one of five brothers, and son of Walter and Ellen Mary Lawson. Frederick left no wife or children.

Frederick had enlisted in Kingston and joined a regular battalion, part of the “Old Contemptibles". At the time of Frederick's death his unit was deployed in the dogged defence of Ypres by the BEF against huge odds. Heavy losses were suffered both in October and November of 1914 at Ypres.

LAWSON Herbert Corporal 2027, 9th Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 26/09/1915, aged 28. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XI. E. 6. Cemetery: CABARET-ROUGE BRITISH CEMETERY, SOUCHEZ

Herbert Lawson was born in 1887 in Wandsworth, one of Frederick’s brothers. Herbert married Lilian Herrington in 1912 and lived in Cavendish Road, Colliers Wood, which is close to Norfolk Road.

Herbert enlisted in Wimbledon and his final rank in the 9/East Surreys was Lance Serjeant. At the time of Herbert's death his unit was deployed on the second day of the Battle of Loos. By 8.00am approx. on the morning of 26th, units of 21st and 24th Divisions had moved with great difficulty throughout the night to reach the advanced positions facing the enemy's second line, around Bois Hugo, Chalk Pit Wood, Chalet Wood and Hill 70 Redoubt. The advance of 72nd Brigade at Bois Hugo, composed of 8/Royal West Kents and 9/East Surreys, together with half of 2/Welch, came under severe enfilade and frontal fire.

Corporal 2027, 9th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. Died 26/09/1915, aged 28. Buried in CABARET-ROUGE BRITISH CEMETERY, SOUCHEZ. Plot XI. Row E. Grave 6.

Herbert Lawson was born in 1887 in Wandsworth, one of Frederick’s brothers. Herbert married Lilian Herrington in 1912 and lived in Cavendish Road, Colliers Wood, which is close to Norfolk Road.

Herbert enlisted in Wimbledon and his final rank in the 9/East Surreys was Lance Serjeant. At the time of Herbert's death his unit was deployed on the second day of the Battle of Loos. By 8.00am approx. on the morning of 26th, units of 21st and 24th Divisions had moved with great difficulty throughout the night to reach the advanced positions facing the enemy's second line, around Bois Hugo, Chalk Pit Wood, Chalet Wood and Hill 70 Redoubt. The advance of 72nd Brigade at Bois Hugo, composed of 8/Royal West Kents and 9/East Surreys, together with half of 2/Welch, came under severe enfilade and frontal fire.

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

MARTINNE

Richard A

Private 19024, "D" Coy. 6th Bn. The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Died 03/05/1917, aged 29. Born Westminster, Enlisted Wimbledon, Resident Mitcham. Husband of Rose S. Martinne, of 24, Carshalton Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. B. 9. Cemetery: VIS-EN-ARTOIS BRITISH CEMETERY, HAUCOURT.

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

ROLES

E H

No further information currently available

ROLFE

C S

No further information currently available

ROOK

S

No further information currently available

ROOK

W

No further information currently available

ROSE

A F

No further information currently available

RUSKIN

V J A

No further information currently available

RUSSELL

F

No further information currently available

RUSSELL

L

No further information currently available

SANDERS

F H

No further information currently available

SAUNDERS

S F C

No further information currently available

SAVAGE

W J

No further information currently available

SCHOFIELD

G H

No further information currently available

SCOTT

F

No further information currently available

SEACH

F J

No further information currently available

SEELEY

T

No further information currently available

SEIBEL

A G

No further information currently available

SELLAR

G A

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

SKILLING

Albert Ernest J

Gunner 67263, 125th Heavy Bty., Royal Garrison Artillery. Died 31/12/1917, aged. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. K. 28. Cemetery: ST. JULIEN DRESSING STATION CEMETERY.

Albert Ernest was born in 1893 in Mitcham, the son of John and Rose Skilling.

Albert enlisted in Margate, joining the Royal Garrison Artillery. Albert's unit was in the St. Julien area of the Ypres salient at the time of his death.

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

STIMSON

J

No further information currently available

STIMSON

T

No further information currently available

STINTON

S

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

VINCE

Edgar

Private G/39885, 1st Bn. The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 26/09/1917, aged 36. Son of Isaac and Ellen Mary Ann Vince; husband of Clara Bullett (formerly Vince), of The Heath, Hessett, Bury St. Edmund's, Suffolk. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 14 to 17 and 162 to 162A. Cemetery: TYNE COT MEMORIAL  

Edgar was born in Stoke-by-Neyland Suffolk in 1881, the son of Isaac and Ellen Mary Ann Vince. The family had settled in Mitcham by the 1900's.

Edgar enlisted in Mitcham and joined a regular battalion. Edgar was lost during the 3rd Battle of Ypres, more commonly know as Passchendaele, fought in some of most atrocious conditions of the entire War.

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

WEIGHT

F G

Possibly Frederick George WEIGHT - Regimental Serjeant Major, CM/11722,1st R.M. Bn. R.N. Div Royal Marine Light Infantry. Died 02/09/1918, aged. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: V. C. 25. Cemetery: QUEANT ROAD CEMETERY, BUISSY  

Frederick George Weight was born in July 1882 and enlisted in July 1900. He embarked in the Mohawk in January 1903 and landed with the Naval Brigade on 21 April 1904 in Somaliland and was present at the capture of Illig. Promoted Corporal in 1905 and Sergeant in 1912 he passed in signalling ('05) First Aid ('06) Musketry (7 times) Gunnery ('01) and became a clerk in the QMS's office from 1906 to 1915, doing two sea tours on Resolution and Andromache in between.

He joined the RN Division, 189th RM Brigade, in France in December 1915, two months after earning his LS&GC. He no doubt saw much action in the many battles of Passchendaele, Arras, Welsh Ridge and earned his £34.0.0 war gratuity. He managed two periods of leave – 10 days in June 1916 and a month's re-engagement (his second) leave in February 1918. He was promoted to QMS in November 1916 and RSM in June 1918.

Frederick Weight was killed whilst bringing up small arms ammunition after 1/RMLI had passed through the Drocourt trench system, some time after 11:45 am on the day that he died.

Frederick George Weight is believed to be a brother of Henry and James weight.

WEIGHT

Henry Charles

Private G/5912, 1st Bn. The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died 23/04/1917, aged 28. Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 2. Cemetery: ARRAS MEMORIAL

Henry was born in 1889 in Mitcham, the son of George William and Elizabeth Weight. The family was already well established in Mitcham and had lived in Church Road at one time, close to site of the War Memorial. Henry is thought to have been living in Tooting at the time of his recruitment.

Henry enlisted in Kingston and joined a regular battalion whose ranks were filled with Territorials, volunteers from Kitchener’s “New Armies” and finally conscripts after the battalion had been decimated in first few months of war in 1914. It is recorded that by the end of the war only 17 men were left out of all ranks, which had gone to France in 1914. At the time of Henry's death his unit was involved in the Arras offensive.

WEIGHT

James Henry

Corporal 2675, 12th Bn. Middlesex. Died 18/02/1917, aged 32. Son of George William and Elizabeth Weight, of 20, Albert Rd., Mitcham, Surrey. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. I. 21. Cemetery: VARENNES MILITARY CEMETERY   

James Henry Weight was born in 1885 in Mitcham, an older brother of Henry, and son of George William and Elizabeth Weight.

James enlisted in Mitcham and joined a service battalion of the Middlesex Regiment - “The Die Hards”, originally part of Kitchener's new Armies. Although the official history records the “Battle of the Somme” ending with the capture of Beaumont Hamel in November 1916, operations in the Ancre valley and on the surrounding heights continued through the freezing winter of 1916-1917. James' unit was involved in action at Miraumont at the time of his death in an assault on Boom Ravine. Conditions generally were bad. Just before the attacks the assembly trenches were badly shelled and many casualties resulted. Despite strong resistance, valuable ground was taken and enemy counter attacks driven off.

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

WILLIS

George Frederick

Private 6613, 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. Died 23/09/1915, aged 29. Son of James and Eliza Willis, of London; husband of Minnie Ethel Willis, of 84, Robinson Rd., Tooting, London. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: II. G. 3. Cemetery: CERISY-GAILLY MILITARY CEMETERY 

George Frederick was born in April 1887 in Battersea. The son of James and Eliza Willis. George married Minnie Ethel Stimson in 1910 and settled near Tooting Junction. He was an insurance agent before the war.

George volunteered and enlisted in Kingston on 11 December 1914 and joined a regular battalion. At the time of this death, George’s unit had been in the line at Missy-sur-Aisne just east of Soissons. The 1st Bn were moving into bivouacs outside St. Marguérite on the 23/09/1915, after being relieved by the Dorset Regt. Several casualties were sustained during the relief.

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

No further information currently available

Boy 1st Class P/JX 182097, H.M.S. Dunedin, Royal Navy. Killed in action 24,November 1941 in the South Atlantic when his ship was attacked by by U-124. Aged 17. Born 2nd June 1924 at Belgrave Road, Mitcham.Son of Edwin George Frost & Louisa Caroline, brother of Peter, who were living in Wimbledon at the time. Joined the Royal Navy at the age of fifteen with H.M.S. Ganges training ship. No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 51, Column 2.