Private G/465, 7th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. Died of wounds 15 October 1915 with the British Expeditionary Force. Born St Stephen's, Sussex, enlisted Bexhill. Commemorated on LOOS MEMORIAL, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 69 to 73. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 30 October 1915, page 3:

KILLED BY A SNIPER.

Mrs. Hopper, of 34, Preeton-road, Sidley, has received news from the Front that her son, Private Albert Adams, of the 7th Batt Royal Sussex, was killed in action October 15th by a sniper.

Private Adams was 21 years age, and spent his last birthday in the trenches. He had been at the Front for five months.

His mother received a letter from Second Lieutenant Stocks, conveying the sad intelligence. The Officer says: “It is my painful duty to inform you that your son died this morning (15th October). He was hit by a German sniper, the bullet entering the shoulder and penetrating the lung, and he expired within an hour. At first we hoped, he would recover, but passed away soon after being removed from the position, where his wound was dressed by our medical officer, who was called up as quickly as possible. I feel sure you will be consoled by the fact that your son died bravely, and in a manner worthy of a British soldier, for though conscious to the end, no word of complaint passed his lips. His loss is keenly felt, not only by his comrades, but by me, his Platoon Officer, for he always did his duty quickly and willingly. I sympathise most deeply with you and yours in your bereavement, and pray that God may give you strength to bear this great loss."

Private John Hopper, of the 8th Batt. East Kent Regiment, son of Mr. Hopper, has sent a postcard home saying that he is a prisoner in Germany. He was wounded in the recent British advance.

We reported last week that Private Albert Adams, a son of Mrs. G. W. Hopper, of Preston Road, Sidley, had been killed in action. We now publish a letter which Mrs. Hopper has received from Lieut. H. S. Stokes, in which he conveyed the sad intelligence.

“It is my painful duty to inform you that your son (No. 465) died this morning. He was hit by a German sniper, the bullet entering the shoulder and penetrating the lung, and he expired within an hour. At first we hoped he would recover. but he passed away soon after being removed from the position where his wound was dressed by our medical officer, whom we called up as quickly as possible.

THE LATE PRIVATE ALBERT ADAMS.

“I feel sure you will be consoled by the fact that your son died bravely, and in a manner worthy of a British soldier, for though conscious to the end, no word of complaint passed his lips.

“His loss is keenly felt, not only by his comrades, but also by me his platoon officer, for he always did his duty quietly and willingly.

“I sympathise most deeply with you and yours in your sad bereavement, and pray that God may give you strength to bear this great loss.

“With kind respects,

“Yours sincerely,

“H. S. STOCKS,

“2nd-Lt. 7th Royal Sussex

Private 790688, "A" Company, 47th Battalion, Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regt.) Killed in action 29 March 1917. Aged 26. Born 19 September 1892 in Bexhill, Sussex. At enlistment he was living at 360, Sherbrooke Street, Sapperon, British Columbia. Enlisted 21/22 February 1916 at New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada, aged 24 and past fit at the same time. Height 5 feet 9 inches. girth 37½ inches, complexion medium, eyes light blue, hair black, religion Church of England, mole on left cheek. Son of Thomas George and Eliza Bristow, of 44, Chandler Rd., Bexhill-on-Sea. By trade a baker. Member of the 104th Regiment of the Militia. Buried in VILLERS STATION CEMETERY, VILLERS-AU-BOIS, Pas de Calais, France. Plot VII. Row G. Grave 6. National Archives of Canada Accession Reference: RG 150, Accession 1992-93/166, Box 1077 - 28 - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 14 April 1917, page 8:

Mr. and Mrs. T. Bristow, of 44, Chandler-road, have received the sad news of the death of their youngest son, Private F. L. Bristow, machine gunner with the Canadian Contingent in France. Private Bristow went to Canada about four years ago and enlisted there. He was one of five sons all serving their country in one capacity or another, and the father is in the Bexhill Volunteer Company.

Private Bristow was killed iu action the 28th March. A comrade writes to his mother: “It was while serving his gun with his face to the enemy that diedas he lived, true loyal son of England. I must say I never met a more faithful or gallant comrade, and it is with deep regret I mourn his departure. Frank’s devotion to duty does not need my description, for every mother knows her son better than any outsider can describe him. Frank’s cheery nature was a subject of comment among his comrades, for when were in rest billets he was always singing and making life as bright as possible. He was also with the smile and helping hand in the trenches, and so endeared himself to us all. You might well be proud of your son. Frank’s devotion to yourself and his father was revealed to me on several occasions. He had a painless death, for the concussion of the shell killed him instantly. He was not mutilated in any manner, and will, I can assure you, geta decent burial at a place the name which I will reveal to you later.”

Sapper 783, 1st/2nd (Home Counties) Field Company, Royal Engineers. Died of wounds 26th April 1915 in France & Flanders. Age 21. Born Robertsbridge, Sussex, enlisted Bexhill-on-Sea. Son of William and Julia Britt, of 5, Claremont Rd., Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea. Buried in BOULOGNE EASTERN CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot VIII. Row A. Grave 18. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 1 May 1915, page 10:

Sapper Ward Britt, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Britt, of 5, Claremont-road, Sidley, has written a brief letter stating that he has been wounded, and expects to be sent home shortly. He has two brothers in the Home Service Section of the Engineers, and another brother who has tried to enlist in Canada but who is medically unfit. Sapper Britt was formerly employed as a gardener at Lady Malet's, “Wrest Wood.”

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 15 May 1915, page 6:

SAPPER BRITT'S DEATH.

Mr. and Mrs. W. Britt, of 5, Claremont-road, whose son, Sapper Ward Britt, 2nd Home Counties Royal Engineers (T.), was recently wounded, received the following notification of his death on Thursday from the General Hospital, Boulogne :—

"Your son was admitted here on April 20th suffering from shot wound of buttock and compound fracture of thigh, and I regret to inform you that he died at 2.30 on April 26th. The end came quite peacefully, as he was unconscious for some time before death."

Mr. and Mrs. Britt wish to thank those who have expressed their deep sympathy with them their great loss.

[Listed as Corporal on Bexhill Memorial] Lance Corporal G/15855, 1st Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 21st March 1918 in France & Flanders. Age 25. Born St Peter's, Bexhill-on-Sea, resident and enlisted Bexhill-on-Sea. Son of Henry and Anne Carey, of 26, Beaconsfield Rd., Bexhill-on-Sea. Awarded the Military Medal (M.M.). Formerly G/16837, 8th Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment. Commemorated on ARRAS MEMORIAL, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 2. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 6 April 1918, page 5:

Mr. H. Carey, of 28, Beaconsfield Road, The Honies, Bexhill, has received the distressing news that another of his sons has been killed in action in Flanders. This is Corpl. A. V. Carey, who was transferred from the Bedfords to the Buffs, and who won the Military Medal at Loos, in April, 1917. A. touching letter from Lieut. A. J. Brock conveys the sad tidings. The corporal died a brave and gallant death on March 22nd after having nobly volunteered to accompany an officer who was sent to withdraw some men who were in danger of being cut off. The pair came under machine gun fire, and the corporal was mortally wounded, dying in a few minutes. The officer succeeded in getting through and delivering his message, but had he been alone it is not likely that he could have suceeeded, as only one target would then have been presented to the enemy instead of two. Corporal Carey was held in high esteem by his officers and comrades, who feel his loss keenly. He joined up in April, 1915, and was 25 years of age.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 6 April 1918, page 8:

STEMMING THE TIDE
LOCAL LOSSSES IN THE GREAT BATTLE
THE FIGHTING CAREYS

Few local families have such record as the Careys, of Beaconsficld-road. On Tuesday the sad news of the death of one of their sons. Corporal Albert Victor Carey, of the Buffs, to which he had been transferred from the Bedfords, was received.

Corporal Carey, who was 25 years of age, was next to the youngest of five sons, four of whom enlisted in the Bedfords, and one in the Canadians. Of these, Sergeant P. W. C. Carey was killed some time ago The Canadian was badly wounded, and is still under treatment in Canada. Another is at home, having been invalided and discharged. One, who lost his leg and was a prisoner in Germany, is now in Brighton, learning a trade.

Sympathy is felt with Mr. and Mrs. Carey in this latest misfortune. Corporal Carey's officer, a lieutenant, writing with expressions of condolence, says:— “With the very greatest sympathy and sorrow I must tell you that your son died a brave and gallant death on the evening of the 22nd, in the fighting The order had been given to our troops to retire to a certain trench line, and your son nobly volunteered to accompany an officer who was sent to withdraw some men who were in danger of being cut off and who would not otherwise have received the order. On the way they came under enemy machine gun fire from a flank, as well as the fire of our own men towards the enemy. They had to cover about 600 yards of exposed ground, where there were no other troops, so that they were the only target for the enemy machine guns. When about two-thirds of the distance had been safely covered, your son was mortally wounded, and died in a few moments a painless death. The officer eventually succeeded in reaching the troops in front, and was able to deliver the message which made it possible for the threatened troops to withdraw. Had he been alone through the journev it is almost certain they would never have got through alive, so your son’s death was one which indirectly may have saved a hundred lives for England. May you both have strength to bear the shock as your son would have wished you to bear i. I t have known your son and his work for nearly two years, and it was I who recommended him for the Military Medal after his bravery in the Loos fighting in April, 1917. He was always one of the bravest, strongest, and most conscientious fellows that I had known. All who knew him wish to offer you both their very greatest sympathy and regret, not for his death, but for your sake.”

 

Sergeant 16829, 8th Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment. Killed in action 18 June 1917 in France and Flanders. Aged 28. Born, resident and enlisted Bexhill. Son of Henry and Annie Carey, of 26, Beaconsfield Rd., Bexhill-on-Sea; husband of Elizabeth Maria Carey, of 464, 12th St. N.W., Hillhurst, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Buried in PHILOSOPHE BRITISH CEMETERY, MAZINGARBE, Pas de Calais, France. Plot I. Row R. Grave 42. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 30 June 1917, page 5:

Mr. and Mrs. H. Carey, of 26, Beaconsfield-road, received the sad intelligence on Saturday that their second son, Sergeant P. W. L. Carey, Bedfordshire Regiment, was killed by a rifle grenade while in the front line on the 18th June.

Sergeant Carey was wounded by a bullet in the knee during a bayonet charge in the advance last September. He was formerly first footman to Lady Ermyntrude Malet.

The late Sergeant Carey was one of five brothers in a family whose sacrifices to patriotism have been more than usually heavy. It will be remembered that the younger son, Private Cyril Carey, of the Bedfordshire Regiment, lost a leg, and was for some months a prisoner in Germany. Another brother was obliged to use crutches, and another came home after serious illness.

In a letter of sympathy from the Commanding Officer of the Company to Mrs. Carey, the writer says, referring to Sergeant Carey: "He was a very fine N.C.O. who could be trusted and depended on in any situation. He was very popular with the men, and is greatly missed by us all. Your husband's body will be buried to-morrow in the British Cemetery at--."

Second-Lieutenant Weller, in another letter of sympathy says: "It was my privilege to spend the best part of the last two hours of his life with your husband. I always considered him the keenest sergeant in the company, and spent many pleasant moments in his society. Sergeant Carey went along the trench to see how some of his men were getting on. After awhile a German rifle grenade lauded right where he was. His wound was hardly noticeable, but he was killed instantaneously, by a fragment penetrating his head. His men are all extremely cut up about his death. I myself can hardly realise that he is no longer in charge of No. 2 platoon. I miss him very much, for not only was he a good friend to all his men, but his singing and cheerful conversation used to cheer me also. He has died doing his bit in the fight against German savagery, and now I feel sure he has been, and is enjoying the faithful warrior's rest in the unseen world."

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 23 September 1916, page 10:

The family of Mr. and Mrs. H. Carey, of Beaconsfield-road, The Honies, has been well represented at the Front, and several members have suffered in the defence of their country. A day or two ago news was received that sergeant P. W. L. Carey, Bedfordshire Regiment, had been wounded by a bullet in the knee during a bayonet charge in the great advance, on the 5th inst. He is now in hospital at Birmingham.

Of his brothers one has lost a leg, another is obliged to use crutches, and another, after serious illness, is now at home. Another is still at the Front.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 30 September 1916, page 10:

WOUNDED WHILE BOMB THROWING.

Sergeant P. W. L. Carey, of the Bedfordshire Regiment, who was wounded in action on the 15th inst., is suffering from a wound in the head sustained when throwing a bomb, as well as the bullet wound in the knee mentioned in our last issue. It was during a bayonet charge, and he and a comrade accounted for two Germans who were opposing them. He is one of the sons of Mr. and Mrs. H. Carey, of Beaconsfield-road, The Honies.

[Listed as R E on memorial] Stoker 1st Class 223109, H.M.S. Aboukir, Royal Navy. Drowned in the North Sea when H.M.S. Aboukir was sunk by a German submarine 22 September 1914. Aged 27. Born 3 February 1887 in Lynn, Norfolk. Son of Samuel Chaplin, of Carr Terrace, Docking, Norfolk; husband of Ellen E. Tree (formerly Chaplin), of 107, Windsor Rd., Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex. Enlisted 3 February 1905 for 12 years, height 5 feet 8 inches, black hair, grey eyes, ruddy complexion. No known grave. Commemorated on CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL, Kent. Panel 4. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial & Norfolk, Great Bircham.

Note: H.M.S. Aboukir was a Cressy Class cruiser of the Royal Navy. Displacement of 12,000 tons. Armament: two 9.2 ins guns (bow & stern), twelve 6 ins quick-firers in a central battery and many more small quick-firers and machine guns. Speed: 21 knots. Launched 16th May 1900. HMS Aboukir, along with HMS Cressy and HMS Hogue, were all torpedoed by the German U-boat U9 on 22nd September 1914.

Sapper 534260, 490th Field Company, Royal Engineers. Killed in action 25th March 1918 in France & Flanders. Age 32. Enlisted Bexhill-on-Sea. Husband of Ella Mary Clark, of 37, Havelock Rd., Bexhill-on-Sea. Commemorated on POZIERES MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Panel 10 to 13. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 18 May 1918:

Old friends at Bexhill will regret to hear that Mrs. Clark has been notified that her son, Sapper. A. Clark, R.E. is reported wounded and has been missing since the 25th March. He is a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. David Clark, formerly of Henniker's Farm, Buckholt, near Bexhill. If any comrades of his company could give tidings Of him, any news will he gratefully received by his mother and brothers now living at 63, Warley Road, Brighton.

[Spelt COWDRAY memorial] Gunner 119954, 20th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. Killed in action 9 April 1918. Aged 32. Husband of Mrs Ethel Kate Cowdrey of 41 Sidley Street Sidley Bexhill. Born in Pimlico and enlisted in Chichester. Buried in BEUVRY COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Pas de Calais, France. Plot II. Row B. Grave 4. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Probably the following although listed as G COWDREY, extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 20 April 1918, page 8:

SIDLEY GUNNER KILLED.

Many people will be sorry to bear that Gunner G. Cowdrey R.G.A., has been killed. The report came unofficially in a letter from a Chaplain at the front.

Gunner Cowdrey was well ktiowii iii business circles, having worked for the past ten or eleven years for Mr G. T. Sabin at St Leonards-road. Ile had been in France about a year. Ilis home address is 41, Sidley-street. Sympathy will be felt for his wife in her logs.

Rifleman O/51, 12th Battalion, Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own). 37th Division. Killed in action during the March Retreat 30 March 1918. Aged 19. Son of Frederick William and Alice Amelia Dawson of 25 Beaconsfield Road Bexhill. Born in Cambridge and enlisted in Chichester. No known grave. Commemorated on POZIERES MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Panel 81 to 84. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 6 July 1918, page 7:

Rifleman J. T. S. Dawson, Rifle Brigade, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Dawson, of 100, Reginald-road, who was wounded some little time ago, is officially reported missing.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 21 December 1918, page 4, and Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 21 December 1918, page 5:

Mr. and Mr,. D. W. Dawson, of 100, Reginald Road, have just heard through Mr. J. R. Willy, of St. Heliers, Belle Hill, the sad new, of the death in action of their second and youngest son, Rfn. J. T. S. Dawson, 0/51 Rifle Bridade, who was 19frac12; years of age, and had been in the Army just over a year. Before joining up he worked at Messrs. Waite and Sons, Belle Hill, and the Cayenne Works, St. Leonards. Previously he was for over two years under gardener the late Ven. Archdeacon Churton. Mr. and Mrs. Dawson have one other son, P. F. Dawson, in the R.F.A. on the Western front, who was home on leave last September, who has gone through the fighting both in Palestine and France without a scratch.

Boy 1st Class J/37894, H.M.S. Queen Mary, Royal Navy. Killed in action when his ship was lost at the Battle of Jutland 31 May 1916. Aged 16. Born 14 July 1899 in Hastings, Sussex. Son of Frederick and Florence V. Eldridge, of 9, Reginald Rd., Bexhill. Enlisted 11 July 1917 for 12 years, height 4 feet 11 inches, chest 32½ inches, brown hair, grey eyes, fair complexion. Prior to enlisting he was a Warship T S Boy. In the 1901 census he was aged 1, born Hastings, Sussex, son of Frederick and Florence Eldridge, resident 22, Salisbury Road, Bexhill, Battle, Sussex. In the 1911 census he was aged 11, born Hastings, Sussex, at school, son of Frederick and Florence Eldridge, resident 9, Salisbury Road, Bexhill-On-Sea, Bexhill, Sussex. No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 14. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Special Note: HMS Queen Mary was a Battle Cruiser, weighing 27,250 tons, she was launched in 1912, but was sunk at 16:25 on the 31 May 1916, after receiving direct hits from two Germans ships, Seydlitz and Derfflingerat, at the Battle of Jutland. 1,266 men lost their lives.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer 10 June 1916:

Among those who, it is feared, have sunk on the "Queen Mary" in the recent Naval battle, is Herbert Eldridge. second son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Eldridge. of 9, Salisbury Road, Bexhill. He was First-class call Boy on the "Queen Mary," which was his first seagoing ship and would have been 17 years of age on the 14th of next month. He had only been away from home a year and seven months, and he formerly worked for Mr. Lye, of St. Leonards Road, Bexhill.

Private SD/5129, 9th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment 24th Division. Died of wounds in Netley Military Hospital Hampshire 1 September 1916. Aged 19. Born in Eastbourne and enlisted in Hastings. Next of kin Bexhill. Formerly with the South Downs Battalion. Buried in NETLEY MILITARY CEMETERY, Hampshire C.E. Grave 1844. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 16 September 1916, page 10:

SOLDIER CADDIE'S DEATH.

The death of Private Ernest Evenden, Royal Sussex Regiment, has occurred at Netley, after a long illness, from fever. He had been brought back from France. Private Evenden was the son of Mrs. Wickham, of 51, Little Common-road, Bexhill, and was only 19 years of age. He was formerly well known as a caddie at Cooden Golf Links.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 23 September 1916, page 10:

As announced in our last issue, Private Ernest Evenden, Royal Sussex Regiment, son of Mrs. Wickham, of 51, Little Common-road, Bexhill, has passed away. He was only 19 years of age, and was formerly well known as a caddie at Cooden Golf Links. He served in France, and after a long illness from fever succumbed recently at Netley.

Private G/8725, 6th Battalion attached to 4th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers. 3rd. Division. Died in military hospital at Etaples 3 December 1916. Aged 39. Born in Sydenham, resident Blackfriars, and enlisted in London. Son of James Friend, of 6, Coastguard Cottages, Bexhill, Sussex. ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot XX. Row D. Grave 14A. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 11 November 1916, page 10:

DANGEROUSLY ILL.

On Tuesday Mr. Jamest Friend, of 6, Coast-guard-cottages, received from France the intelligence that his son, Private James Friend, jun., of the Royal Fusiliers, was seriously ill in a military hospital. Private Friend was wounded last year, and has been gassed.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 9 December 1916, page 5:

The news of the death of Pte. James Friend, of the Royal Fusiliers, will come as sad news to his many frends in the locality. He was the son of Mr. J. Friend, of the Coastguard Cottages, with whom special sympathy will be felt. His decease occurred in a French hospital Sunday.

Private TF/1524, 1/5th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. 48th Division. Died of wounds on the Somme 19 July 1916. Aged 26. Son of The Rev. Herbert and Mrs Grantham of Halton Rectory, Tring, Hertfordshire. Born in Tring and enlisted in Tewkesbury. Resident of Bexhill. Buried in WARLOY-BAILLON COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Somme, France. Plot V. Row C. Grave 6. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 29 July 1916, page 7:

DIED OF WOUNDS.

We regret to record the death of Private "Ted" Grantham, Royal Sussex Regiment, youngest son of the late Rev. Herbert Grantham and of Mrs. Grantham, of 41, Dorset- road, Bexhill.

The young soldier, who would have been 27 years of age on the 8 October, was well known in Bexhill, having been formerly at Holmwood School, his relatives residing at Bexhill for the past twelve years. He was in a bank in Gloucestershire, and was subsequently at the London and County Bank, St. Leonards. He had been at the Front since February, 1915, with the exception of a month's holiday last November.

He received a severe wound in action, and was taken to the Field Ambulance, but inspite of all that medical attention could do he died on the 19th inst. without regaining consciousness. A Sister at the Field Ambulance communicated the sad intelligence to his relatives. He and his comrades had been on pioneer work for some time, and he was a sapper.

He was buried in a little cemetery close to where he passed away.

In a letter to Mrs. Grantham, Captain Langham says:—"It is with the deepest regret that I have to tell you that your son, Private Grantham, was fatally wounded on the morning of the 19th inst., and passed away quietly a little time later. 1 cannot tell you how greatly we feel the loss of so old a friend, and so true and brave a man, and how deeply we one and all sympathise with you in your bereavement. Your son has already been conspicuous for his steadiness under fire, and we can ill-afford to lose so good a comrade. He was very bright and cheerful to the last. and I had a short chat with him before he was carried back. I again offer you my heart-felt condolences."

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 29 July 1916, page 7:#

GRANTHAM.—On the 19 July, of a severe wound received in action, "Ted" (Private, Royal Sussex Regt.), dearly-loved son of the late Rev. Herbert Grantham and of Mrs. Grantham, 41, Dorset Road, Bexhill.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 29 July 1916, page 14:

An Old Holmwood Boy.

The death of Private Edward Grantham. of the Royal Sussex Regiment, is announced. He was the son of the late Rev. Herbert Grantham, and Mrs. Grantham who is at present residing at 41, Dorset Road. The deceased soldier was well known in Bexhill. he being an old Holmwood boy. Previous to the war he served in the Territorials for about eight. years, and his time was expired when the war broke out, so he immediately enlisted as a private in the Royal Sussex Regiment.. He was only 27 years of age. The sad news was brought by a letter from a i Sister of the Field Ambulance, in which t was stated he had received a serious wound in the abdomen about 10 a.m. on the 19th inst. He was immediately attended to, but paSsed away at 11.30, having never regained consciousness. The letter arrived on Monday last. His ninny friends will greatly regret his untimely death.

Commanding Officer's Message.

Since the news was received Mrs. Grantham has had a most kind and appreciative letter from his Commanding Officer, in which he writes:—

"It is with the deepest regret that I have to tell you that your son, Private E. Grantham, was fatally wounded on the morning of the 19th inst., and passed away quietly a little time later. I cannot tell you how greatly we feel the loss of so old a friend. and so true and brave a man. and how deeply we one and all sympathise with you in your bereavement. Your son has always been conspicuous for his steadiness under fire, and we can ill afford to lose so good a comrade. He was very bright and cheerful to the last, and I had a short chat with him before he was carried back."

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 14 October 1916, page 15:

Private Edward Grantham was also an Holmwood boy. He was the son of the late Rev. Herbert Grantham, and Mrs. Grantham who is at present residing at 41, Dorset Road. The deceased soldier was well known in Bexhill. Previous to the war he served in the Territorials for about eight years, and his time was expired when the War broke out, so he immediately enlisted as a private in the Royal Sussex Regiment. He was only 27 years of age.

Private SD/2707, 13th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. Killed in action 30 June 1916 with British Expeditionary Force. Aged 36. Born Brightling, Sussex, enlisted Bexhill. Husband of Alice Ethel May Abbott (nee Ransom, formerly Honeysett), of 2, Laburnum Cottages, Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea, married July to September Quarter 1905 in Battle Registration District, Sussex. Boer War veteran. HIs brother, Cecil, killed same day. Buried in ST. VAAST POST MILITARY CEMETERY, RICHEBOURG-L'AVOUE, Pas de Calais, France. Plot III. Row Q. Grave 4. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 22 July 1916, page 15:

Private J. G. Honeysett, of the Royal Sussex Regiment, who was killed in action on June 30th. He is another of Sidley's brave sons who have fallen in the fight, being the husband of Mrs. Honeysett, who resides at 2, Laburnum Cottages. Before he enlisted he was in the employ of Councillor J. Rogers, with whom he was with for some years.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 29 July 1916, page 4:

SIDLEY SOLDIER KILLED.

Mrs. Honeysett, of 2, Laburnum-cottages, Sidley, has now received the official notification of the death at the front of her husband, Private J. G. Honey sett, Royal Sussex Regiment. The first intimation she received was from the officer commanding "A" Company, of her husband's Battalion, who wrote—" I regret to tell you that your husband, 2707, Private Honeysett, was killed in action on the morning of 90th June. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy in your sad bereavement."

Before Private Honeysett enlisted in the Southdowns in November, 1914, he was employed by Mr. J. Rogers, of Old Town, for whom he worked for eight years. His brother was killed in action on 9th May, 1915, and the only surviving brother is in France with the Royal Field Artillery.

Private Honeysett leaves a widow and three children.

Lance Sergeant 12831, 26th Company, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Killed in action 18th October 1916 in France and Flanders. Age 29. Born St Peter's, Bexhill, Sussex, enlisted Bexhill. Son of Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Hopper, of Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea; husband of Alice Hopper, of Hambleden, Henley-on-Thames. Formerly 1057, Royal Sussex Regiment. Buried in WARLENCOURT BRITISH CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot VI. Row F. Grave 7. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 11 November 1916, page 10:

MISSING.

Mr. G. W. Hopper, of 34, Preston-road, Sidley, has had news from the War Office that his son, Sergeant G. W. Hopper, of the Machine Gun Corps, is missing.

He was formerly in charge of the electric light at Cooden Camp, and previous to that he was in the employ of the Bexhill Water and Gas Company. He has been missing since the 10 October.

Another son, Private J. B. Hopper, East Kent Regiment, is a prisoner of war in Germany.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 18 August 1917, page 5:

MISSING MAN'S FATE.

Lance-Sergeant G. W. Hopper, Machine Gun Corps, previously reported missing, is now officially reported killed. He was one of the sons of Mr. G. W. Hopper, of Preston-road, Sidley, the other being a prisoner of war.

Sergeant Hopper had been reported missing since October 10th last year. Before joining the Army he was employed by the Bexhill Water and Gas Company, and for some time, later, he was in charge of the electric light at Cooden Camp.

Private G/40398, 2nd Battalion, Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment) formerly G/12143, Royal Sussex Regiment.. Died of wounds 13th October 1916 in France and Flanders. Born Ashburnham, Sussex, enlisted Chichester, Sussex, resident Redhill, Surrey. Buried in LONGUENESSE (ST. OMER) SOUVENIR CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot IV. Row A. Grave 64. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 21 October 1916, page 10:

Mrs. Isted, of 13, Chandler-road, has heard that her husband, Private G. Isted, of the Middlesex Regiment (late of the Royal Sussex), was wounded on the 8th October and died on the 13th.

A sister at a hospital in France says : “I deeply regret to inform you that the condition of 40398 Private Isted, Middlesex Regiment, became so much worse during the night, and he died at 6 a.m. this morning. He will have a military funeral, and his grave will be marked with a wooden cross with his name.”

A memorial service will he held at St. Stephen's Church to-day (Saturday) at three o'clock.

Private G/17951, 1st Battalion, Queen's (Royal West Kent Regiment). Killed in action 3rd October 1917 in France and Flanders. Age 35. Born Eastbourne, enlisted and resident Bexhill. Husband of Annie Lewis, of 1, Arncliffe Terrace, Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea. Formerly 6014, Sussex Regiment. No known grave. Commemorated on TYNE COT MEMORIAL, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 106 to 108. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 3 November 1917, page 8:

Private Samuel Lewis, West Kent Regiment, of Arnchliffe Terraces, Sidley, is now officially reported killed. As mentioned in the “Bexhill Observer” last week, he had been missing since he was in action early in October, and grave fears were entertained for his safety, as no message had been received from him and he had always been a regular correspondent. He was formerly Messrs Banks and Gearing at Sidley and was brother to Mrs. Gearing.

Private SD/1071, 11th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. Died of wounds 2nd August 1917 with British Expeditionary Force. Age 28. Born New Cross, Kent, enlisted Bexhill. Son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Long, of London. Buried in BRANDHOEK NEW MILITARY CEMETERY, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot IV. Row C. Grave 10. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 18 August 1917, page 5:

PRIVATE E. LONG. KILLED

The sad news has been officially reported that Private Ernest Long Royal Sussex Regiment, attached to a Company of the Royal Engineers, was wounded on August 2nd, and died on reaching the Casualty Clearing Hospital. Deceased, who was 27 years of age, was the youngest son of the late Mr. Ambrose Long and Mrs. Mary Ann Long, of New Cross, London. He had lived in Canada for nearly ten years, and at the outbreak of the War came back to England and joined up with the Royal Sussex Regiment at Cooden on September 19th, 1914. He was at the Front 17 months. His loss is most keenly felt by many who knew him—his comrades left fighting in France and all friends in ...(illegible)....... who thought a great deal of him, and much sympathy is felt for his three brothers, Ted, Will, and George, and his sunt Mrs Anetskie (sic) who had cared for him like a mother since he was ten years old, and Miss Edie Seymour, to whom he was engaged, and was going to be married when he came home on leave.

Sergeant M2/114699, 406 Mechanical Transport Company The Army Service Corps attached to the IXth Corps Heavy Artillery. Killed in action near Ypres 31 October 1917. Aged 32. Son of Daniel and Constance Mann; husband of J. L. Mann, of 23, Monkswell Road, Mount Pleasant, Exeter. Native of Pevensey, Sussex. Born in Pevensey Bay and enlisted in Southampton. Buried in BLEUET FARM CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot II. Row A. Grave 50. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 17 November 1917, page 8:

The sad news has been received by his wife that Sergeant Lawrance Mann, Army Service Corps M.T. was killed in action on October 31st. He was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. D. Mann. of Wakeham's House, Holliers Hill, who have two other sons on service. Deceased, who was 31 years of age, was a fine type of manhood. bright and active, and had been in France for a couple of years, first as a driver with the Australian Field Ambulance, and then with an ammunition column of the Army Service Corps. He was home on leave a month ago. Before the War he lived in Ireland. Much sympathy has been extended to the parents, and the wife and little boy who are bereaved.

An officer, writing to the widow, says :— "This is a trying few minutes for me to have to write and break such very, very sad news of the death of your dearly loved husband. He was killed in action on the 31st ult., whilst nobly doing his duty. Will write you again in the course of a few days. and let you know fuller particulars of your sad loss directly I receive them myself. I have known your husband now for nearly 15 months, during which period he has been under my command. He was one of the best, and always showed a splendid example to the men. I can assure you he is very much missed amongst us all here, and everyone on the column wishes me to convey to you their very deepest sympathy in your sad bereavement. I am arranging for a cross and a railing to be erected over his grave."

[Not recorded on CWGC] Captain, H.M. Transport A21, Royal Navy. Died 27 September 1917 of Pulmonary Tuberculosis at 26 St Leonards Road, Bexhill. Born 14 March 1881 in Liskeard, Cornwall. Achieved seniority rank of Midshipman 11 August 1897. Date of commission 2 September 1897. Certificate of Competency Mercantile Marine. Name changed from THOMAS to MELLO 1902 when his mother remarried to Adolphe Albert Edward Mello. Married Margaret Emily Hawkins 11 May 1909 in Upminster, Essex, he was resident Rose Bank Sidley Bexhill on Sea, son of Peter Thomas (Deceased). Commander (Captain) of S.S 'Marere' of the Commonwealth & Dominion Line for 13 years. Contracted an illness in 1915 whilst on active service in the Dardanelles. Was torpedoed by a German Submarine (18 January 1916), no lives were lost. Although it is reported that, from August 1914 onwards, Peter Mello's ship SS.Merere was used for transporting troops to the battle zone. When torpedoed 18th January 1916, there was only Peter Mello (and crew) aboard at that time. Brother of Arnold (above). Buried in BEXHILL CEMETERY, Sussex. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1917:

MELLO Peter Paul Elliott of 26 St. Leonards-road Bexhill on-Sea Sussex died 27 September 1917 Probate London 24 December to Margaret Emily Mello widow. Effects £583 17s. 6d.

Mr. Peter Mello, late Captain of H.M. Transport, who died at Bexhill-on-Sea on 27th ult., of an illness contracted in the Dardanelles in 1915, was the elder son of Mrs. A. A. E. Mello, of Rose-bank, Sidley. He was 35 years of age.

MELLO.—On the 27th September, of an illness contracted on active service in the Dardanelles in 1915, Peter Mello, late Captain of H.M. Transport A21, elder son of Mrs. A. E. Mello, Rosebank, Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea

Extract from St Peter’s Church Parish Magazine 1917 November :

The death of Captain Peter Mello is the latest, and not the least sad, of the losses which we have suffered locally through the war during the past year. Captain Mello combined in a singular degree all the best qualities of the true British sailor with a remarkably genial and attractive personality. He died of a disease contracted while commanding his ship in the Dardanelles, and therefore is to he reckoned, equally with those who have died in battle, as one who has given his life for his country. We offer our sincerest sympathy to his widow, and to Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Mello, who have now lost both their sons—sons of whom any parents might well be proud. R.I.P.

Sapper 909, 2nd Home Counties (491) Field Company, The Royal Engineers. Died of wounds in base hospital at Boulogne 6 May 1915. Aged 39. Husband of Mrs Louisa Gertrude Morley, of 8, Salisbury Road, Bexhill. Born in Battle and enlisted in St. Leonards. Buried in BOULOGNE EASTERN CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot VIII. Row C. Grave 1. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Satrurday 1 May 1915, page 10:

SAPPER W. C. MORLEY.

On Sunday Mrs. Morley, of 23, Little Common-road, received a telegram stating that her husband, Sapper Wililiam Charles Morley, had been seriously wounded. It ran as follows:—"Regret to tell you 909 Sapper Morley is at 13 General Hospital, Boulogne, dangerously ill, gun shot wounds arms and legs. "

Later she received the following letter, written for her husband, at No. 13 General Hospital, Boulogne Base:—"No doubt you have received a communication from the Base Office about my wound, but all that's the matter is that I have lost my right arm, and have some shrapnel in other places. Expect to be in England in about a week, and will forward address when I arrive. . . The doctor says I am going on well. Will send another line in a day or two."

Sapper Morley was formerly employed by Mrs. McGregor, grocer, of Station-road. He served in the South African War.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 15 May 1915, page 2:

MEMORIAL SERVICE.

A memorial service will be held in St. Stephen’s Church this (Saturday) afternoon, at 3 o'clock, for two parishioners who have been recently killed in action, viz.. Sapper William Charles Morley and Sapper Albert Edward Filmer. The service will be conducted by the Vicar (the Rev. E. H. Leale).

Sapper 903, 2nd Home Counties (491) Field Company, The Royal Engineers. Killed in action 20 April 1915. Born in Sidley Sussex and enlisted in St. Leonards. Next of kin Bexhill. Buried in BEDFORD HOUSE CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Enclosure No. 2. Plot V. Row A. Grave 57. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Satrurday 1 May 1915, page 10:

Several of the men from Sidley have written home saying that Sapper George Morris, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Morris, of 21, North-road, Sidley, was among the killed. Sapper Morris, who was well known as “Martha,” was a prominent member of the Sidley Football Club. He was formerly employed at the Turkey Road Brickyard.

 

Seaman 5248A, H.M.S. Alcantara, Royal Naval Reserve. Killed as a direct result of enemy action when his ship engaged the German raider Grief, in the North Sea, both ships sank, 29 February 1916. Aged 20. Born 21 June 1895 in Bexhill, Sussex. Son of Thomas and Harriet Maria Murrell, of 86, Reginald Road, Bexhill-on-Sea. No known grave. Commemorated on PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 23. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Note: From Royal Mail Steam Packet Company, she was converted to an Armed Merchant Cruiser in 1915 and was fitted with eight 6 inch guns, two 6 pounders anti-aircraft guns and depth charges. On the 29th of February 1916 while under the command of Captain T. E. Wardle in the Skagerrak she was signalled to intercept an alleged disguised Merchant Ship steaming northwards. At 08:45 a ship was subsequently sighted and was identified as the Norwegian Ship Rena, Andes who was on patrol with Alcantara confirmed that the Rena was the suspected ship and ordered Captain Wardle to intercept and search. Alcantara closed to within 800 yards and a boarding party set out, within minutes the German raider Greif raised the German flag lowered false bulkheads concealing her guns and opened fire. The Alcantara was mortally wounded and soon developed a port list, the Greif was also on fire but was still able to loose torpedoes at Alcantara and Andes, fortunately both missed. At 09:15 the order to abandon Alcantara was issued, the list was so great that many of the ship's complement walked down the ship's side. The Cruiser Comus and Destroyer Munster arrived to pick up survivors and at 11:08 the Alcantara sank. By this time the Greif was well ablaze and at 13:00 she also sank losses on the Alcantara were 72 crew, the Greif 280.

For more information on the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company follow the link.

 

Private G/144, 7th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. Died of wounds 9 October 1915 with British Expeditionary Force. Born Ramsgate, enlisted Bexhill. Son of Mr. W. and Mrs. F. Perry, of 14, Suffolk Road, Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea. Buried in BETHUNE TOWN CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot IV. Row F. Grave 56. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Lieutenant, Machine Gun Corps. Died after the war, 27 August 1919. Aged 26. Son of William and Louisa Pittock; husband of Mrs Celia Mary Pittock of 28, Manor Road, Bexhill. Born in Deal, Kent. Buried in BEXHILL CEMETERY, Sussex. Grave reference C. C. N2. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 29 November 1919, page 2:

LIEUTENANT H. F. PITTOCK.

Lieutenant Herbert Frank Pittock, of St. John's, 28, Manor-road, Bexhill, of the Machine Gun Corps, whose death occurred on the 27th August, left estate valued at £577 15s. 3d. Mr. George Joseph Howes, of 28, Beecroft-road, Brockley, Kent, is the executor.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1919:

PITTOCK Herbert Frank of St. Johns 28 Manor-road Bexhill-on-Sea Sussex lieutenant M.G.C. died 27 August 1919 Probate London 10 November to George Joseph Howes warehouseman. Effects £577 15s. 3d.

Photograph Copyright © Dave Hatherell 2023

Private G/27179, 4th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers 3rd. Division. Killed in action on the Somme 16 August 1916. Aged 20. Son of Mr. and Mrs. William Shannon, of 68, Amhurst Road, Bexhill. Born in Boston USA. and enlisted in Hastings. No known grave. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 8 C 9 A and 16 A. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 2 September 1916, page 10:

Within five months of his leaving home to join the Army the sad news arrived that Private William Shannon, eldest son of Mr. W. Shannon, builder, and Mrs. Shannon, of Holliers-hill, Bexhill, had been killed by a shell. The first intimation came from a Hastings friend of the gallant lad, who had heard of his end from a fellow comrade in the platoon. Deceased belonged to the Royal Fusiliers, and had only recently arrived at the Front. It is probable that he met his death the first time he went into the trenches.

Friends of the deceased have heard of his early sacrifice in the great cause with something like a shock, as it was only a few weeks ago that he was home on leave prior to going to the Front. In his case the tragedy of war has terminated a most promising career, and the deepest sympathy will be felt for Mr. and Mrs. Shannon and their family. Private Shannon, who was only 20 years of age, was serving his articles as a pupil of Mr. Henry Ward, the well-known architect, of Hastings. He had made gratifying progress in his profession, passing his examinations very successfully. Although a soldier for a very short period, he performed his military duties with the same thoroughness as his civil work, and would doubtless have rendered good service to his country if he had not been struck down so soon by fate.

Confirmaton of the sad news was received yesterday from the War Office. Private Shannon was killed on 16 August.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 2 September 1916, page 10:

The official intimation of the death of Pte. William A. Shannon, of the Royal Fusiliers, and son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Shannon. of 61, Holliers Hill, was received yesterday (Friday). A letter from a comrade (Lance. Corporal G. S. Matthews) has also been received, in which he says: "It is with sincere sympathy that I have just heard of the news of poor Will. I heard from a pal in the same platoon as he to-day, and he told me how the end came. Doubtless by this time you have heard the sad news officially. It appears that he and another pal of ours had only been in the firing line a short time when they met their death by a shell." Pte. Shannon was killed on the 16th of August. his parents having last heard of him on the 11th of August, when he was then just going to the firing line. He was known in Bexhill, being an articled pupil of Mr. Ward, of Hastings.

Private G/16070, 7th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment 12th Division. Killed in action at Aveluy Wood during the March Retreat 28 March 1918. Born in Bexhill and enlisted in Hastings. No known grave. Commemorated on POZIERES MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Panel 46 and 47. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer 13 April 1918:

Private D. W. Shoesmith, Royal Sussex Regiment, was killed on the 27th ult. He was the younger son of Mr. D. Shoesmith, of 15, Sidley Street, and had been gassed and wounded in France previously. Private Shoesmith was formerly a temporary postman in connection with the Bexhill Office, chiefly in the Catsfield district. He joined up about two years ago. He leaves a wife and a little child.

Gunner 56567, No 36 Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery (T.F.) Died of wounds. 3 May 1917. Born Bexhill, enlisted Stratford Essex. Resident of Bexhill. Buried in ATHIES COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Pas de Calais, France. Row H. Grave 11. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 26 May 1917, page 8:

Mr. and Mrs. Lester Spray, of The White Houses, Wrest Wood, Haddocks Hill-road, have this week received the official news that their son, Gunner Frank Spray, who was in a Siege Batter of the R.G.A., has died of wounds in the Division Mobile Dressing Station. Gunner spray was 27 years old, and had been at the Front in France for nearly two years.

[Spelt STEVENSON on St Mary's Memorial] Private G/3774, 8th Battalion, Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Killed in action 18 August 1916 in France and Flanders. Age 19. Born, resident and enlisted Bexhill. Son of Walter and Emily Stevenson, of 73, Reginald Rd., Bexhill-on-Sea. No known grave. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 5 D. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 25 November 1916, page 10:

Mr. W. Stevenson, of 71, Reginald-road, has heard no further news of the fate of his son, Private L. P. Stevenson, East Kent Regiment. He has been officially reported wounded on August 18th, and a comrade, Private Baker, writes that he was killed on the same date.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 9 December 1916, page 5:

On Thursday of this week Mr. and Mrs. Stevenson, of 71, Reginald Road, received official news that their son, Pte. L. P. Stevenson, of the East Kent Regiment, previously reported wounded, has been killed in action. Pte. L. P. Stevenson (photograph we reproduce) and his brother, Bert Stevenson. both joined the Army soon after the declaration of war. Previous to this the deceased soldier was in the Church Lads' Brigade, and was employed by Mr. Philcox in Sackville Road.

Private 25699, 13th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. 40th Division Died of wounds 13 December 1917. Aged 40. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Turk, of Bexhill, Sussex; husband of Annie Louisa Turk, of 38, Cornwall Road, Bexhill-on-Sea. Born St. Johns and enlisted in Hastings. Buried in BUCQUOY ROAD CEMETERY, FICHEUX, Pas de Calais, France. Plot II. Row A. Grave 15. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 22 December 1917, page 8:

Many people in Bexhill, including the Bexhill Brotherhood , and those with whom he was associated in work under the Borough Surveyor’s department as road foreman, will be sorry to hear that Private Percy Turk, of the East Surrey Regiment, has succumbed to wounds received in the recent fighting. Private Turk's home address was 38, Cornwall Road. He leaves a widow and daughter. The sad intelligence was conveyed to Mrs. Turk in a letter from a chaplain who explained that Private Turk was brought to the Casualty Clearing Station, suffering from very severe wounds in both legs. The Chaplain adds: “I am sorry to tell you that nothing could be done for him, and he passed over to God a short time after his reception. I remained with him for some time before he passed away, and it may be some comfort—a saddening comfort, perhaps to know that his thoughts were of you and his daughter. . . . It was his wish that I might minimize his wounds as much as possible, so that you might not be worried. I laid him to rest in a quiet .graveyard behind the line some distance. . . Please accept my truest sympathy in the loss of a loving husband and father.”

We have received the following tribute from the Rev. J. Osborne:—

SIR,—Would y0u allow me room for a word with regard to my friend Percy Turk, recently killed in action before Cambrai?

I have known him quite closely ever since coming to Bexhill. He was one of those men to whom one could talk intimately, because of a certain sincerity of mind and quickness of sympathy. He was a man whom one could trust as a loyal-hearted friend.

He had a sturdy independence of view, and could express his thoughts with much natural eloquence. I persuaded him to give an address at the Bexhill Brotherhood. He chose for his subject " Work" and developed his theme carefully, and with well-chosen words. Had he been spared, I believe that Percy Turk would have done very good service in some directions.

He was a brave and gallant-hearted man, shrinking from the very thought of doing injury to any man; he, nevertheless, became a conscientious fighter in the great cause of his Country. We may place him among the best type of intelligent and high-minded working men whose friendship one cherishes as the very gift of Heaven. I append a few sentences from his last letter to me.

Yours truly,

JOSEPH OSBORNE.

The extracts referred to are appended :—

“Dear Mr. Osborne.—You will be interested to know that since coming out here, I have I suffered no ill-effects, either physically, morally or spiritually. Personally, I find the majority of the men down-right good fellows; this includes officers as well as men. When I look back on the remarkable way in which I have been led, I consider myself one of the most favoured of men. But I know the source from whence I derive these blessings, and am very grateful for them. The things that are occurring daily have not in the least shaken my confidence in the Bestower of every good and perfect gift, but have rather strengthened and consolidated my faith in Him, and I have not the slightest doubt that my 'anchor' will hold when the strong tides lift and the cables strain.”

A PERSONAL TRIBUTE.

Mr. Frank Bending, Hon. Secretary of the Brotherhood, writes: — “The news of the passing of Percy Turk came as a great shock to the members of the Bexhill Brotherhood. 'Percy,' as he was affectionately known to them, was one of the oldest and most respected members, and his genial, straightforward and attractive manner never failed to impress those who worked with him. The greatest thing that can be said, and said quite truly, of Percy Turk is, that he was a good man. he was a man of sterling character and had a heart filled with sympathy and kindly thought for his fellow men. His whole nature was stirred to its depths by injustice or wrong-doing of any kind, particularly towards the poor and down-trodden. If any man knew and believed in what he was fighting for, that man was Percy Turk. He was a man who thought for himself and his thoughts, when he could be prevailed upon to express them to his friends, were those of a genuine, high-living man. It was my privilege to cones-pond with him during the whole time he spent in the Army. and his letters, especially those sent from France, always breathed a spirit of cheerfulness and hope. and of a deep spiritual strength. I may, perhaps. be allowed to quote one sentence. After expressing his thankfulness for what he considered were the good things which had come his way in France. he adds: 'But I am not ignorant of the source from whence these privileges have come to me. My trust is in God and I am not afraid what man can do unto me. He may or may not destroy the body, but be cannot harm the thing that matters, the soul.' And the buoyant, strong faith of Percy Turk is with us yet and the good influence of his life remains. But although we part with a true brother with deep sorrow and a great heartache, it is with the sure and certain knowledge of bidding him in the better dawn. ‘Good morning.'”

Sapper 1500, 1st/2nd Home Counties Field Company, Royal Engineers. Killed in action 14 August 1915 in France and Flanders. Born Tunbridge Wells, Kent, enlisted Bexhill-on-Sea. Buried in BRONFAY FARM MILITARY CEMETERY, BRAY-SUR-SOMME, Somme, France. Plot I. Row B. Grave 32. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill on Sea Chronicle 21 August 1915:

We regret to record that Sapper W. Turner 2nd H.C. R.E., was killed while at the front on Saturday last. Sapper Turner. who leaves a wife and family, who reside at 55, Sidley Street, had written home to Mrs. Turner on the previous Thursday. On Monday evening last, Mrs. Turner received a letter from Major Cecil Ticehurst, R.E., stating that the Sapper had been killed by a bursting shell while resting in a wood. Later, a further letter was received from another officer, forwarding a sum of money which had been found in the deceased 's soldier's pocket. Sapper Turner, before joining the Army, had been in the employ of Councillor James Rogers, of the Old Town, and was very well known in Bexhill, having resided here for the past sixteen years.

Captain, 12th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. Died 3rd September 1916. Aged 26. Only Son of Laurence Rayner Tuttiett; husband of Frances Alice Tuttiett, of 89 The Avenue, West Ealing, London. No known grave. Commemorated on THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 7 C. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 16 September 1916, page 4:

CAPTAIN TUTTIETT.

It is with deep regret that we have to announce that Capt. L. W. Tuttiett, of the Royal Sussex Regiment, was reported "missing "—a word that has a terrible significance at the present,time—on September 3rd. He was the only son of the Rev. L. R. Tuttiett, the hon. Chaplain of the Bexhill V.T.C., who resides at Avenue House, Bexhill. and was born in June, 1891. Captain Tuttiett was educated at Lancing, and served for three years as a trooper with the British South African Police in Rhodesia. Afterwards he went to Ceylon, returning home from that island at the outbreak of the war, and obtained a commission as lieutenant in the Royal Sussex Regiment, in December, 1914. He joined one of the battalions of the regiment which, in its early days, trained in Bexhill, and the one he joined was the one that, for some time occupied the Down School. He was promoted to captain and company commander in April, 1915. Captain Tuttiet married in April, 1915, and leaves a son, aged six months. The sympathy of all in Bexhill will go out to the family.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 16 September 1916, page 10:

Captain L. W. Tuttiett, Royal Sussex Regiment, son of the Rev. L. R. Tuttiett, Avenue House, Bexhill (a well-known local resident and chaplain of the V.T.C.) is reported missing on the 3rd inst. He was on special duty at the time, and his friends hope he may yet be alive. Captain Tuttiett is well-known in Bexhill, his Battalion having been quartered at the Down School and the Drill Hall. He was born in June, 1891, and was educated at Lancing College. He served three years with the B.S.A.P. in Rhodesia, and returned from Ceylon on the outbreak of the war and obtained a commission as lieutenant in the Royal Sussex Regiment in December, 1914. He was promoted to be captain and company commander in August, 1915. Captain Tuttiett was married in April, 1915, and has a son aged six months.

[Listed as Jack on St Mary Memorial] Sapper 962, 2nd Home Counties (491) Field Company, Royal Engineers. Killed in action 20 April 1915. Born in Hastings and enlisted in St. Leonards. Next of kin Bexhill. Buried in BEDFORD HOUSE CEMETERY, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Enclosure No.2 Plot V. Row A. Grave 28. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Satrurday 1 May 1915, page 10:

Sapper G. J. Vincett, son of Mr and Mrs. G. J. Vincett, of Western-road. who is reported killed, was only 18 years of age. He joined the Engineers in November, and went to France in December. He was formerly employed by Messrs. Hall and Co., coal merchants.

Private 60855, 101st Company, Labour Corps Formerly 31812, Royal Fusiliers. Died of wounds 13 May 1918 in France and Flanders. Age 37. Born Catsfield, Sussex, enlisted Bexhill, resident Sidley, Sussex. Son of James and Charlotte Waite, of 14, North Road, Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea. Before enlistment he was a Gas Company employee. Buried in ST. SEVER CEMETERY EXTENSION, ROUEN, Seine-Maritime, France. Section P. Plot XI. Row I. Grave 11A. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Research Copyright © Diana Nicols:

Eldred was born about 1st September, 1880 in Catsfield, Sussex, the fourth child and first son of James WAITE, an Agricultural Labourer, and his wife Charlotte, nee ELPHICK. He was baptised on 5th September 1880 in St Laurence Church, Catsfield. He is shown in the 1881 Census (taken on the night of 3rd April) aged 7 months living with his parents and sisters in Potmans Lane, Catsfield. In 1891, he lived with his family in The Green, Catsfield and Eldred was a ‘scholar’. He would have been educated at Catsfield Village School. His father was now a bricklayer. Eldred still lived at home (now Henley Down, Catsfield) aged 20 in 1901 and was an Agricultural Labourer. His family moved to Bexhill in 1906, probably because of the amount of building work that was going on in the town at that time. In 1911 Eldred is 28, unmarried, and still living with his parents at 15, North Road, Sidley. He is a Bricklayer’s Labourer so he probably worked for, or with, his father. When war broke out in August 1914, Eldred was nearly 34 years old. His brother, Edwin, went to France with the British Expeditionary Force and was killed in action in November 1914. Most of his brothers in law joined up for War Service in 1914 but Eldred did not. During 1915, the Bexhill Chronicle had letters and articles about white feathers being given to men of military age but not in uniform [4]. Eldred was given white feathers by his sisters, probably in 1915. It was Conscription, introduced by the Military Service Bill of January 1916, which precipitated Eldred into the Army. He joined the 34th Labour Battalion (The Roadsters) of the Royal Fusiliers which was formed at Falmer in Sussex on 9th April 1916. He became Private Eldred Waite 31812. He would probably have been in a Labour Battalion whatever regiment he joined because of his age, now 35, and his civilian work as a labourer. The 34th Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers left for France in June 1916 and worked in various parts of France, unloading ships, making roads, or building ammunition dumps. The work was hard and often involved shift work and very long hours, and it was certainly not glamorous.
In May 1917, all the Royal Fusiliers Labour Battalions were disbanded and reformed into the Labour Companies (each of 500 men) of the newly created Labour Corps. Eldred became Private E Waite, 31812 in the 101st Company of the Labour Corps. The work was often carried out very close to the front line and under fire, but alas, the soldiers of the Labour Corps seldom got recognition, even when they worked alongside other soldiers who were recognised for the same activity. Eldred died on 13th May 1918, aged 37, in a Military Hospital in Rouen after being gassed the previous day at Fonquevillers, a village in the north of the Somme area. One of the most devastating attacks on a Labour Corps company occurred on the night of 11/12 May 1918. On that night 101 Company was burying cables at Fonquevillers when the area was attacked with both high explosive and gas shells from 7.30 pm until 2.30 am. Initial reports suggested that no men were killed during the attack, although IV Corps Diary refers to 40 officers and possibly 1,400 men being gassed. Among those gassed were three officers (Major R. M. Christie, 2nd Lt W. Bates and 2nd Lt E P. Hazell) and 286 other ranks of 101 Company. On 12 May 60309 Private H. Chitty was the first of 101 Company to die as a result of the gas. Sixteen more men including 2nd Lt Bates were to die on 13 May and a further 37 including Major Christie on 14 May. Further members of 101 Company, including 2nd Lt Hazell, died of the effects of the gas over the next fifteen days so that by 29 May 1918 all three officers and 134 other ranks had died. Within five days of the gas attack the remnants of 101 Company were employed on road-work at Orville and on 18 May received 200 replacements.
Most of the men killed in this attack are buried in St Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen. It is not known how many of the remaining 150 other ranks may have later died as a result of the gassing. Extract from ‘No Labour, No Battle’ by John Starling and Ivor Lee page 148 Eldred is buried in Block P, Plot 11 Row I Grave 11A of the St Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen, France. The personal inscription reads 'Gone but not forgotten'.
In June 1918, the Bexhill Observer reported: 'Bexhill War Notes -- News of More Casualties Private E Waite -- Official news has been received of the death of Private Eldred Waite, of the Labour Corps, in hospital at Rouen. Private Waite was the elder son of the late Mr James Waite, and of Mrs Waite, of 14, North Road, Sidley, and was a single man, 38 years of age. He had been in France two years and was home on leave just before Christmas. His younger brother, Private Edwin Waite, was killed at Ypres. The Sister--in--Charge at Rouen, writing of Private Eldred Waite, says he was severely gassed, and passed away peacefully. She adds "He will be buried in the English cemetery at Rouen with our splendid men. Everything possible was done for him, and he was so good and brave" The reported comments of the Sister--in--Charge above -- 'so good and brave' -- might indicate that when dying, Eldred was concerned that his family thought him a coward. Alternatively, maybe the Sister--in--Charge said similar words about all the soldiers who died in her care, especially during that period when so many Labour Corps men died. It is very doubtful that he passed away ‘peacefully’. The Medal Index shows that Eldred was awarded the Victory and British War Medals. He is commemorated on the Bexhill War Memorial and his name, Eldred, given to the eldest son of one of his sisters. Was that sister one of those who also gave him a white feather several years earlier?

Private 30241, 1st/6th Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment. Died of wounds 24 June 1918 in France & Flanders. Age 21. Born and enlisted Bexhill-on-Sea. Son of Alfred John and Florence Susie Watson (step-mother), of 5, Belmont Terrace, Sidley, Bexhill. Buried in MONTECCHIO PRECALCINO COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Italy. Plot 3. Row B. Grave 8. - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Observer - Saturday 6 July 1918, page 7:

BAD NEWS FROM ITALY.

Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Watson, of Belmont-terrace, Sidley, have received the sad news that their eldest son, Private A. J. Watson, Gloucester Regiment, has succumbed to his wounds. The Sister in charge of the hospital writes that he passed peacefully away on the 24th June.

Although it was known that Private Watson's condition was critical, the intelligence came as a great blow to his friends. Private Watson, who was wounded in France, had been on the Italian Front only about two months. He was 21 years of age.

Second Lieutenant Acting Captain, 2nd Battalion, South Wales Borderers. 29th Division. Killed in action near Fricourt 8 September 1916. Aged 26. Baptised 23 June 1890 in Northampton, Northamptonshire. Elder son of John W. B. Wileman and H. K. Wileman of Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex. In the 1891 census he was new born, born Alton, Hampshire, son of John W B and Harriet K Wileman, resident The Lindens, Turk Street, Alton, Hampshire. In the 1901 census he was aged 10, born Alton, hampshire, a school boarder, resident Cambridge House School, Northdown Road South Side, Margate, Thanet, Kent. In the 1911 census he was aged 20, born Alton, Hampshire, son of John Watkins Brett Wileman and Harriet Kate Wileman, resident Berneval, Magdalen Road, Bexhill, Sussex. Buried in PEAKE WOOD CEMETERY, FRICOURT, Somme, France. Row B. Grave 23. - - See also Bexhill-on-Sea Town memorial

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1917:

WILEMAN Gerald Watkins Brett of Berneval Bexhill Sussex second-lieutenant 2nd battalion South Wales Borderers died 15 September 1916 in France Administration London 23 June to Dorothy Mary Wileman widow.
Effects £134. 8s. 11d.

Extract from Bexhill-on-Sea Chronicle - Saturday 23 September 1916, page 4:

WILEMAN.—Killed in action, on the 9th Sept., Gerald Watkins Brett Wileman. Lieut., South Wales Borderers, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. J. W. B. Wileman. "Berneyal," Bexhill, and husband of Dorothy Wileman (née Haswell) aged 26.