Le Touret Memorial to the Missing - 1st Battalion, Cheshire Regiment, Killed in Action 1914

Soldiers "Known Unto God"
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Capt. James Arthur GREENHALGH	Capt. Hugh Irving StJohn HARTFORD
Sgt. 8172 Alex EVANS	Sgt. 8145 James SCRAGG		Sgt. 9811 George Henry WOODWARD
Cpl. 9428 Samuel DEAKIN	Cpl. 9690 Thomas GOODWIN		Cpl. 6915 William McVEETY
Cpl. 7435 Fred NEWHOUSE	Cpl. 7699 Francis Charles NORMAN		Cpl. 10131 Richard OVER
Cpl. 7570 Joseph WALKLETT
L/Cpl. 9057 Thomas Frederick ARCHER	L/Cpl 9393 James CHADWICK		L/Cpl. 7290 James HOLDER
L/Cpl. 9519 Dennis SULLIVAN
Pt. 9010 George BALLAGHER	Pt. 6778 James BARNETT		Pt. 7064 William George BARTLETT
Pt. 8604 William BOWERS	Pt. 8202 Luke BRADLEY		Pt. 6356 Ernest BROWN
Pt. 6409 George William BROWNE	Pt. 7402 David BROWNHILL		Pt. 9424 Josiah BURGESS
Pt. 8977 William BURNS	Pt. 8406 Albert Edward CARTLIDGE		Pt. 7388 Richard CHANTLER
Pt. 6227 Walter CLARKE	Pt. 8217 James Henry COOPER		Pt. 6816 George DAWSON
Pt. 6150 Roger DEVANEY	Pt. 6203 Samuel DODGSON		Pt. 8539 James DUNN
Pt. 8534 George DUNNING	Pt. 10049 Alfred Harold EARP		Pt. 7410 William ELLIS
Pt. 6079 Francis FAGAN	Pt. 7052 Frank William FARRANT		Pt. 8380 John FIRTH
Pt. 5783 John FLANAGAN	Pt. 6288 William GREEN		Pt. 6690 Charles Cash HARRISON
Pt. 7491 James HENSHALL	Pt. 7982 Herbert HEWITT		Pt. 10158 Arthur HILL
Pt. 8749 William HILL	Pt.9054 William HOLMES		Pt. 6750 Edward HUGHES
Pt. 10552 Frank HUGHES	Pt. 10541 Frank Arnold JACKSON		Pt. 9242 John Edward JEPSON
Pt. 7279 Herbert JONES	Pt. 10000 Clarence JOWITT		Pt. 7344 Alfred LEONARD
Pt. 7553 James LLOYD	Pt. 8847 Albert William LOCKE		Pt. 5771 Robert McDONALD
Pt. 8587 Henry McRETH	Pt. 8284 Fred MARROW		Pt. 8175 Arthur MELLOR
Pt. 8658 Charles Albert MOSS	Pt. 6014 John William MOTT		Pt. 5943 Hugh MUNRO
Pt. 6306 Harry OGDEN	Pt. 9322 Cuthbert PANNELL		Pt. 9791 George PLIMMER
Pt. 6497 Harry POOLE	Pt. 9711 James POSTLETHWAITE		Pt. 8771 John Watkin PRICE
Pt. 8295 Ernest RICHARDSON	Pt. 7483 Isaac ROBERTS		Pt. 9259 Joseph ROBINSON
Pt. 9325 John William ROGERS	Pt. 10310 Thomas SHERWIN		Pt. 8833 William SMITH
Pt. 9160 Joseph SWANN	Pt. 8542 George SWINSON		Pt. 7001 John THOMSON
Pt. 10164 Jonathan TUFF	Pt. 8921 Jack TURLAND		Pt. 7227 Francis WARREN
Pt. 6976 George Joseph WILLIAMS	Pt. 6800 Harry WINTERBOTHAM

Private 9424 Josiah BURGESS
	Date of Death:	22 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'B' Company
	Age:	26

	Personal History:
	Josiah was born in the September quarter 1888 in Over, Winsford, Cheshire, and the 1901 Census (RG 13/3343) shows him living with his grandparents. John and Elizabeth Hardman, in Over. Similarly, in 1891 (RG 12/2840) 3 years old Josiah is living with his grandparents and their daughter, named as Emily Burgess (aged 19). The normal conclusion would be that Emily is Josiah's mother, but the CWGC records state that Josiah was. "Son of the late Mrs. Mary Ann Burgess." There is no obvious record of Josiah on the 1911 Census, although his Service Number would suggest he was a serving soldier by then, so may have been in Ireland with the 1st Battalion. There is no record of Josiah marrying or having any children.

Military History:

Josiah enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Winsford, Cheshire. His Service Records are unavailable and were probably destroyed by Second World War bombing. However, his service number would suggest he enlisted in May/June 1910 on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.)

Battalion records list Josiah as one of the original 1st Battalion who sailed for France at the outbreak of the War. However, his Medal Index Card shows that he did not enter France with the rest of the Battalion on 16th August 1914, but followed on a month later, arriving on 20th September. It is likely that he was one of the 21 reinforcement who joined the 1st Battalion on 24th September when the War Diary recorded:

"The following Officers arrived today:

Captain L A Forster, Res of Off.; Captain S Butterworth, 3rd Ches; 2 Lt H S Stalker, Res of Off.; 2 Lt L B J Pogson, 1/Ches Regt and 21 men"

He was on of the 53 NCOs and men killed in action on 22 October at Voilaines on the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée.

Military History:

James enlisted into the 3rd (Special Reserve) Battalion at Stockport, Cheshire on the 18th November 1909 on a 6 year period of service. His stated age was 17 years 11 months, although he was probably a few months older (see above). He was at the time serving with the 7th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers (Territorial) - Private 922, 'B' Company. He had been with them for 6 months. Having attested into a Reserve Battalion he attended 4 weeks of training each year, usually in May - June or June - July, from 1910 until 1914.

James tried to enlist into the Regular Army but was rejected on medical grounds on 12th June 1913 due to a 'deformed toe'. Nevertheless, Battalion records list James as one of the original 1st Battalion who sailed for France at the outbreak of the War. However, this I not quite the case as his Medal Index Card shows. On the 8th August he was mobilized as transferred to the 1st Battalion, entering France on 27th. He would not, therefore, have seen action at Audregnies and was probably one of the 90 'other ranks' under Lieutenant Hartford who joined the decimated Battalion at Gagny on 5th September.

There are conflicting dates for James' death. The CWGC states 14th October whilst his Medal Index Card has the 25th. His surviving Service Papers confirm that he was reported missing from 14th (List 5294) and it was later deemed that he had died "on or since" the 14th (Army Form B 104 - 82a). In total he had served 4 years 331 days with the Regiment.

From the War Diary the 13th October is a more likely date when the Battalion was in the trenches at Festubert:

"4.45 a.m. 'A' Coy made dawn attack on RUE D'OUVERT without success, casualties Major Vandeleur, 2nd Scottish Rifles, Major Young, Captain Harbord, D.S.O., Lieut. Harrington, 2nd Lieut Thomas, 55 N.C.O.s & men missing, 8 N.C.O.s & men wounded."

Private 7388 Richard CHANTLER (A.R.)
	Date of Death:	22 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'D' Company
	Age:	28
	Personal History:
	Richard was born in the December quarter 1883 at Witton, Northwich, Cheshire, and the 1901 Census (RG 13/3343) the son of Mary Chantler. He had an older sister, Mary E., and a younger sister, Fanny. The 1891 Census (RG 12/2839) shows Richard living with his mother, sister and stepfather, Thomas Greenway (Labourer) plus their son, 6 months old Joseph, at Bebbington Court, Northwich. The couple married in the September quarter 1892. After the war the family was living in Oak St, Northwich. At the time of his enlistment Richard's stated occupation was 'Labourer'. He was 5' 11½" tall (1.82 m.), weighed 149 lbs. (10 stone 9lbs) had a 'fresh' complexion, grey eyes and brown hair. His stated religion was Church of England.
	Military History:
	Richard enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Northwich, Cheshire, aged 18 years 6 months, on 6th February 1904 on a 3 + 9 period of service (i.e. 3 years Active Service followed by 9 years in the Reserve.) This was later extended to 8 years, so he would have been transferred to the Reserve List in February 1912. As a Reservist Richard was recalled to the 1st Battalion at the outbreak of War and entered France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'D' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the right flank under Captain Jones. He was reported missing and later deemed to have died "on or about" 22nd October 1914, one of the 53 NCOs and men killed in action at Voilaines on the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée. The War Diary for that day reads: "5.10 a.m. Enemy made heavy attack, and took the trenches at the point of the bayonet. Battalion retired to RUE DU MARAIS under very heavy fire. Manchesters came up in support. 8.0 p.m. Battalion withdrawn and went in bivouac at last E of RUE DE BETHUNE. Casualties: Captains Shore, Rich, Hartford, 2/Lieuts Atkinson, Leicester, Greenhalgh missing, Captain Forster, 18 N.C.O.s & men wounded, 200 N.C.O.s & men missing including Sergeant Major. CAPTAIN MAHONY died in hospital. Lieut. T L Frost took over command of the Battalion."

Private 8539 James DUNN (A.R.)
	Date of Death:	14 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'C' Company
	Age:	23
	Personal History:
	James was born in the March quarter 1891 at Oswestry, Shropshire, the son of Elizabeth Dunn. James' father died and Elizabeth remarried, Robert Dixon, although one letter in James' Records names her as Thornton. James had three younger step-brothers, Joseph, Arthur and William. At the time of his enlistment James's stated occupation was 'Labourer' and he had worked for the Manchester Ship Canal Company for about 6 months at that time. He was 5' 5" tall (1.65 m.), weighed 112 lbs. (8 stone 0lbs) had blue eyes and dark brown hair. His stated religion was Church of England. On 6th December 1913 James married Catherine Buckley at St James Roman Catholic Church, Pendleton, Manchester. They had no children. With effect from 5th July 1915 Catherine was awarded a pension of 10/- (50p) per week. After the War she lived with her parents at 3 Chaney street, Pendleton, Manchester until she died on 22nd May 1919.

Private 10049 Alfred Harold EARP
	Date of Death:	22 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'D' Company
	Age:	19
	Personal History:
	Alfred was born in the December quarter 1883 in at Crewe, Cheshire, the son of Henry and Mary Elizabeth Earp of 14 Landon Street, Crewe. He had three older brothers, Jubilie William, Albert Alexander and Charles Edgar, and an older sister, May Frances. At the time of his enlistment Alfred's stated occupation was 'Forge Labourer'. Before enlistment he had worked for two years for the London and North-western Railway Company. His reference stated he was "Sober, honest and a very superior timekeeper". Rev. Bidlake, Christ Church, Crewe, also provided a reference for Alfred, saying he "believed him to be steady"! He was 5' 4" tall (1.63 m.), weighed 110 lbs. (7 stone 12lbs) had a 'fresh' complexion, brown eyes and light brown hair. His stated religion was Church of England. Alfred was not married, nor did he have any children.

Military History:

Alfred enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Crewe, Cheshire, aged 18 years 1 months, on 10th January 1913 on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.) For some reason he was absent from training between 20th - 25th April, before being posted to the 1st Battalion on 30th April.

He served initially as an 'Officers Servant' and was assessed by Captain Dugmore on 6th October 1913 as "Intelligent, hard working and reliable."

As a serving soldier he sailed from Belfast with the 1st Battalion at the outbreak of War and entered France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'D' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the right flank under Captain Jones.

Alfred was one of the 53 NCOs and men killed in action at Voilaines on 22nd October 1914, the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée. In total he had served just 1 year 286 days with the Regiment.

"On the 22 October, the Battalion was still in position at Voilaines. "D" Company was engaged in digging trenches in front of the village, when it was rushed by a surprise German attack. The Company fell back, leaving "C" Company exposed. This Company was also forced back. The whole Battalion now found that there were no troops on either flank and was forced to further withdraw to avoid being cut off. Over 220 men became casualties - dead, wounded or captured." (Source: "Stockport Soldiers 1914-18"

Private 7052 Frank William FARRANT (A.R.)
	Date of Death:	19 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'D' Company
	Age:	32
	Personal History:
	Frank was born in the September quarter 1882 in at Haverhill, Suffolk, the son of Harry and Amelia Farrant of Eden Road, Haverhill, Suffolk (although his Service papers suggest March). He had and older sister, Lily (died in infancy) and older brother, Harry, and two younger sisters, Selina Flora and Lilly Violet (1891 Census RG 12/1435) and a younger brother, Cyril. (1911 Census RG 14/10502) At the time of his enlistment Frank's stated occupation was 'Mat Maker'. He was 5' 10¾" tall (1.80 m.), weighed 149 lbs. (10 stone 9lbs) had a 'fair' complexion, blue eyes and dark brown hair. His stated religion was 'Independent Protestant'. Frank was not married, nor did he have any children. After leaving the Army he returned to the family home at 34 Shepherd's Cottages Haverhill and was employed as a 'Hair Weaver'. (1911 Census RG 14/10502)

Military History:

Frank enlisted into the 2nd Battalion at Haverhill, Suffolk, stated age 20 years 10 months, on 5th January 1903 on a 3 + 9 period of service (i.e. 3 years Active Service followed by 9 years in the Reserve.)

He served initially with the 2nd Battalion, from 11th February 1903. He was convicted by the Civil Authorities in Aldershot of theft of 8/- (40p) and served one month in jail (20th August - 20th September 1903). After six months back on duties he transferred to the 1st Battalion on 18th March 1904, then was posted to India to serve with the 2nd Battalion, arriving on 1st October 1904. Frank returned from India on 10th March 1906, being transferred to the Reserve List the next day.

Army Form B.103, dated 28th October 1914, confirmed that Frank was "Killed in Action in the field" (List 5294). Frank was one of the 9 men killed in action at Voilaines on 19th October 1914, the second day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée. In total he had served 4 years 288 days with the Regiment.

The War Diary for that day states:

"10.0 a.m. Attempted to occupy LA BASSEE, and came under heavy fire of each arm. Finally entrenched 450 yds in front of former positions.

Casualties: 2/Lieut. Andrews, 2/Lieut. Sidebotham, 2/Lieut Napier wounded, 9 men killed, 20 wounded. Battalion on outposts."

Military History:

John enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Stockport, Cheshire, stated age 18 years 5 months, on 16th January 1907 on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.) Before then he was serving with the 4th (Militia) Battalion, into which he had enlisted at Macclesfield on 4th April 1906. After an initial period in Chester, he was posted to the 1st Battalion at Lichfield on 14th May 1907. After a month at Bordon he was posted to Belfast, 23rd September 1909 and to Londonderry on 10th January 1913.

His conduct was said to be "Very Good", he had earned two Good Conduct badges and was a "First Class Shot". The first GC badge, earned on 14th January 1910, was forfeited on 19th October that year, but restored 11 months later. The forfeiture was for using abusive language to and 'interfering with the duties of' an NCO, for which he received 8 days CB (Confined to Barracks). Previously, on 27th September 1907 he had received 5 days CB for drunkenness and abusive language, and on 9th January 1908 overstayed his furlough - 10 days CB. (This was the day before being posted to Ireland!)

Nevertheless, Captain Dugmore wrote of him, in September 1913, "An intelligent and very reliable groom. Would make an excellent coachman in civil life." He also received a 'Sobriety Certificate' to show he had not been drunk in the last three years of his Service. On the expiration of his period of Army Service John transferred to the Reserve List 'B' on 16th January 1914 and to List 'A' on 24th February 1914.

As a Reservist he was recalled at the outbreak of War and sailed from Belfast with the 1st Battalion, entering France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'C' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the right flank under Captain Dugmore. On 27th September 1914, John received 14 days Field Punishment No. 1 for being 'deficient of equipment'. His surviving Service Papers confirm that he was reported missing from 22nd October (List 5294)

On 16th February 1916 the Army Council decreed that John had been killed "on or since" 22nd October 1914 and that next of kin should be notified accordingly. His father had written as early as 28th October 1914 asking for information on John's whereabouts. In total he had served 7 years 280 days with the Regiment - reduced to 266 days for his 14 days FP in September 1914.

John was killed on the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée. The War Diary for that day states:

"5.10 a.m. Enemy made heavy attack, and took the trenches at the point of the bayonet. Battalion retired to RUE DU MARAIS under very heavy fire. Manchesters came up in support.

8.0 p.m. Battalion withdrawn and went in bivouac at last E of RUE DE BETHUNE.

Casualties: Captains Shore, Rich, Hartford, 2/Lieuts Atkinson, Leicester, Greenhalgh missing, Captain Forster, 18 N.C.O.s & men wounded, 200 N.C.O.s & men missing including Sergeant Major.

CAPTAIN MAHONY died in hospital. Lieut. T L Frost took over command of the Battalion."

Private 8380 John FIRTH (A.R.)
	Date of Death:	22 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'C' Company
	Age:	25
	Personal History:
	John was born in August 1889 in at Levenshulme, Manchester, the son of John (Gardner) and Jane Firth, He had an older brother, William, and five younger brothers and sisters, George, Harry, Elizabeth, Mary and Minnie. (1911 Census RG 14/21410) After the War the family lived at Broadstone Lane, Reddish and New Bridge lane, Stockport. At the time of his enlistment John's stated occupation was 'Rope Maker'. He was 5' 5" tall (1.65 m.), weighed 125 lbs. (8 stone 13lbs) had a 'fresh' complexion, grey eyes and brown hair. His stated religion was Church of England. John was not married, nor did he have any children. After leaving the Army he returned to the family home at 16 Anne Street, Stockport.

Corporal 9690 Thomas GOODWIN
	Date of Death:	13 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'A' Company
	Age:	21
	Personal History:
	Thomas was born in St Michael's Parish, Macclesfield, Cheshire in the June quarter 1893, the son of James (Cab driver) & Emma Goodwin of Charles Street, Macclesfield. He had three older siblings, Annie, Emily and James, and three younger brothers and sisters, Florrie, Albert and Harriett. (1901 Census RG 13/3312) In 1911 the family was living at 37 Duke St Macclesfield and 17 year old Thomas was working as a 'Carter For Corn Firm'. Older brother James is listed as a 'Horse Soldier'. (Census RG 14/21466)
	Military History:
	Thomas enlisted into the Regiment at Macclesfield, Cheshire. His Service Records are unavailable and were probably destroyed by Second World War bombing. However, his service number would suggest he enlisted in September 1913 probably on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve) if joining the 1st Battalion, alternatively a 6 year engagement if joining the 3rd (Reserve) Battalion. However, Battalion records list Richard as one of the original 1st Battalion who sailed for France at the outbreak of the War, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'A' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the left flank under Captain Dyer. He was on of the NCOs and men killed in action on 13th October at Festubert on the first day of the Battalion's action to take Voilaines. The War Diary for that day states: "4.45 a.m. 'A' Coy made dawn attack on RUE D'OUVERT without success, casualties Major Vandeleur, 2nd Scottish Rifles, Major Young, Captain Harbord, D.S.O., Lieut. Harrington, 2nd Lieut Thomas, 55 N.C.O.s & men missing, 8 N.C.O.s & men wounded." Of those reported missing six were eventually deemed to have been killed in action.

Private 10000 Clarence JOWITT
	Date of Death:	28 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'C' Company
	Age:	21

	Personal History:
	Clarence was born in November/December 1892 in Slater Street, Manchester, the youngest son of Joseph (Machine Tool Fitter) and Margaret Jowitt. He had 10 older brothers and sisters, James, Harry, Arthur, Alfred, Joseph, Amy, Leonard, Mable, Annie and George William.(1891 Census RG 12/3243 and 1901 Census RG 13/3750) Brother Arthur was killed at St Julien in 1915. Brothers Leonard, Harry, Alfred, George, and Joseph all served in the Army and survived the War. Joseph Jowitt died in the December quarter 1909 and in 1911 (Census RG 14/23709) Clarence, employed as an 'Errand Boy', his widowed mother, Margaret, and sisters Mabel and Annie, were living at 37 Parker Street, Ardwick, Manchester, the home of elder sister Amy, now married to Frederick Hodgson (Insurance Collector). On his enlistment Clarence was 5' 6?" tall (1.69 m.), weighed 108 lbs. (7 stone 10lbs) had grey eyes and brown hair. His stated religion was Church of England. Clarence was not married, nor did he have any children. ... about the Jowitt Family

Military History:

Clarence's surviving Service Papers are in extremely poor condition, but it seems that he enlisted into the 3rd (Reserve) Battalion at Chester, Cheshire, stated age 19 years 9 months, on 21st August 1912, (Private 9632) then transferred to the 1st Battalion on 21st November 1912 on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.) Before joining the Cheshires he was serving with the 8th Battalion, Manchester Regiment (Private 1519), which he had joined on a 4 year engagement on 8th February 1912. He was posted from Chester to Belfast (date not known) then to Londonderry on 10th January 1913.

As a regular soldier he was serving with the 1st Battalion at the outbreak of War and sailed from Belfast, entering France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'C' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the right flank under Captain Dugmore.

Clarence was killed at Neuve Chapelle on 28th October 1914. In total he had served 1 year 342 days with the Regiment - the last 74 days in France with the BEF.

The War Diary for that day states:

"5.0 a.m. Battalion in support to attack on NEUVE CHAPELLE, came into firing line at 3 p.m. Entrenches on East side of ESTAIRES - NEUVE CHAPELLE road at PONT LOGY. Battalion on outposts with 'B' Company in reserve.

Casualties: 2/Lieut. Woodhead wounded, 1 Sgt, 1 Private killed, 4 wounded, 5 missing. Enemy opened fire, which was returned about 9 p.m.."

Private 8587 Henry McRETH
	Date of Death:	22 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'C' Company
	Age:	23
	Personal History:
	Henry was born in December/January 1888/9 in Barrowford, Lancashire, the youngest son of Allan (Stonemason) & Mary A MacKereth (sic) (1901 Census RG 13/3865) of Barrowford, Lancashire. He had 4 older brothers and sisters, Agnes, Robert, Elizabeth and Mary, and a younger sister, Bertha. On his enlistment Henry was 5' 5¾" tall (1.67 m.), weighed 114 lbs. (8 stone 2lbs). His stated religion was Church of England. Henry was not married, nor did he have any children. After the War his Memorial Scroll was sent to his mother at 3 Angle Street, Burnley, Lancashire.
	Military History:
	Henry enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Blackburn, Lancashire, stated age 18 years 7 months, on 15th August 1907 on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.) He was posted from Chester to Bordon on 1st November 1907, until 24th September 1909 when he transferred to Belfast.

From his surviving Service Record his time with the Battalion was not without difficulty, though all fairly minor. After some discipline problems in 1908 (now lost), on 19th July 1908 he was confined to barracks (CB) at Borden for 3 days for drunkenness; in December he received further periods of CB for a dirty rifle on the 5th and overstaying his furlough by 18 hours on the 31st. on 11th February 1909 he "hesitated to obey an order" (7 days CB); 5th April - dirty kit (3 days); 7th July - inattention on parade (2 days). After being posted to Belfast, on 16th October he was absent from medical inspection (3 days). On 26th March 1910 he was '2 hours 35 mins' late from a pass (2 days). That seems to be all until 1911 - 15th April, absent from church parade (2 days CB); 30th June - overstaying his pass by 35 mins. (2 days) and the same again on 29th March 1912, by 1 hour 25 mins (2 days CB).

Henry was one of the 53 NCOs and men ultimately deemed to have been killed in action at Voilaines on the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée. The War Diary for that day reads:

"5.10 a.m. Enemy made heavy attack, and took the trenches at the point of the bayonet. Battalion retired to RUE DU MARAIS under very heavy fire. Manchesters came up in support.

8.0 p.m. Battalion withdrawn and went in bivouac at last E of RUE DE BETHUNE.

Casualties: Captains Shore, Rich, Hartford, 2/Lieuts Atkinson, Leicester, Greenhalgh missing, Captain Forster, 18 N.C.O.s & men wounded, 200 N.C.O.s & men missing including Sergeant Major.

CAPTAIN MAHONY died in hospital. Lieut. T L Frost took over command of the Battalion."

Private 9322 Cuthbert Duke PANNELL
	Date of Death:	22 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'D' Company
	Age:	23
	Personal History:
	Cuthbert was born in the September quarter 1891 in Kidderminster, Worcester, the youngest son of Edwin Thomas (Gas Fitter) and Jane Pannell of Horsefair, Kidderminster. (After the War the family moved to 22 St. Mary's Road, Bearwood, Smethwick, Staffordshire). Cuthbert had an elder brother, Edwin W., and two elder sisters, Edith M. and Elsie M. (1891 Census RG 12/2314 and 1901 Census RG 13/3765) Jane Pannell died in the September quarter 1897. There is no obvious record of Cuthbert on the 1911 Census, although his Service Number would suggest he was a serving soldier by then, so may have been in Ireland with the 1st Battalion.
	Military History:
	Cuthbert enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Warwick. His Service Records are unavailable and were probably destroyed by Second World War bombing. However, his service number would suggest he enlisted in 1912 on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.) As a regular soldier he was serving with the 1st Battalion at the outbreak of War and sailed from Belfast, entering France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'D' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the right flank under Captain Rae-Jones or Captain Rich. Cuthbert was one of the 53 NCOs and men ultimately deemed to have been killed in action at Voilaines on the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée.

Private 9791 George PLIMMER
	Date of Death:	20 October 1914 (Died of wounds)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'A' Company
	Age:	19
	Personal History:
	George was born in the March quarter 1894 in St John's Parish, Accrington, Lancashire, the youngest son of Marga Plimmer of Style Street, Manchester. He had an elder sister, Ellen E., and an adopted brother, Frederick Whitehead. (1901 Census RG 13/3754) There is no record of Marga on the 1911 Census and George is registered as an 'Inmate' of Manchester Certified Industrial School, Ardwick, Manchester. (RG 14/23828) Industrial Schools were intended to help those children who were destitute but who had not as yet committed any serious crime. The idea was to remove the child from bad influences, give them an education and teach them a trade. about Industrial Schools
	Military History:
	George enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Hyde, Cheshire. His Service Records are unavailable and were probably destroyed by Second World War bombing. However, his service number would suggest he enlisted about February/March 1912, aged 18 years, on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.) As a regular soldier he was serving with the 1st Battalion at the outbreak of War and sailed from Belfast, entering France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'A' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the left flank under Captain Dyer. George died of wounds received in action on the 20th October 1914 and as he has no known grave it is likely he died and was buried close to the frontline and his grave subsequently lost. On the 19th the Battalion attempted to take La Bassée and lost 9 men killed, 20 wounded. On the 20th 3 men were killed and a further 24 men wounded as the held Voilaines. Most probably George was one of those 44 wounded men.

Private 7001 John THOMSON (A.R.)
	Date of Death:	22 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'D' Company
	Age:	32
	Personal History:
	John was born in October/November 1882 in Clarendon Street, St Thomas's Parish, Hyde, Cheshire, the son of James (a self-employed Road Carrier) and Elizabeth Thomson. He had an elder brother, Thomas, two elder sisters, Isabella Allen and Lillas Bell, and a younger brother, William. (1881 Census RG 11/3468) By the time of the 1891 Census Elizabeth had died and James had re-married Selina Emma Denerley in March quarter 1887. At the time of his enlistment John's stated occupation was 'Driver'. He was 5' 6¾" tall (1.70 m.), weighed 118 lbs. (8 stone 6lbs) had a 'fresh' complexion, grey eyes and brown hair. His stated religion was Church of England. On 16th June 1910 John married Emily Jane Foote at Newton, Cheshire. They had 2 children, Allen Major, born 9th March 1911, and Elizabeth Helen, 30th October 1913. In 1911 they were living with father James (again widowed) at 45 John Street, Hyde. (Census RG 14/ 21327) and John was working with his father as a 'Carrier'. By May 1914, when he wrote requesting an extension of his Reserve Service (see below) he was working for the Midland Railway and living at 10 Boston Street, Hyde.

Military History:

John enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Chester, aged 20 years 0 months, on 13th November 1902 on a 3 + 9 period of service (i.e. 3 years Active Service followed by 9 years in the Reserve.) He transferred to the 2nd Battalion on 22nd February 1903 then back to the 1st on 18th March. He served in Chester until 22nd April 1904 when he sailed to India, arriving 26th August and reverted to the 2nd Battalion on 14th October 1904. He returned from India on 31st January 1906 when he transferred to the Army Reserve 'B' on 3rd February 1906 and at that time his conduct and character were assessed as "Very Good." He had earned one Good Conduct badge.

His time in Section 'B' of the reserve was due to end on 12th November 1914, but on 15th May 1914 John signed on to re-enlist into Section 'D' Reserve, for men who had completed their time in Section 'B' Reserve. They could choose to extend for another four years and were placed in Section 'D' Reserve. Terms, pay and training was the same as Section 'B'.

However, before this could all take place, as a Reservist he was recalled at the outbreak of War and sailed from Belfast with the 1st Battalion, entering France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'D' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the right flank under Captain Jones. For this action he was Mentioned in Field Marshall French Despatch of 15th January 1915. His Service Papers state that he was "Brought to the notice of the Secretary of State for War for Gallant and Distinguished Service in the Field." He was Gazetted again 15th February 1915, confirming the earlier entry.

After originally being reported missing after the action at Audregnies, John was one of the 53 NCOs and men killed in action at Voilaines on 22nd October 1914, the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée. In total he had served 11 years 344 days with the Regiment, just 22 days short of his original 12 year enlistment.

Military History:

Jack enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Bedford, aged 18 years 1 months, on 18th February 1908 on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.) He was posted to Bordon on 4th June 1908 and then to Belfast on 24th September 1909. On 6th October 1913, in preparation for civilian employment, Captain Dugmore stated that Jack had been employed in the Officers' Mess as a Waiter and his conduct and character were assessed as "Intelligent, exceedingly hard working and reliable. A very good waiter."

As a serving soldier he sailed at the outbreak of War and sailed from Belfast with the 1st Battalion, entering France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card.. As a member of 'D' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the right flank under Captain Jones. On 5th September he was promoted Acting Corporal and again to Acting Sergeant on 30th September. (These promotions have not made their way on to his CWGC records, but do appear on his Medal Card.

Jack was reported as one of the 200 NCOs and men missing from the Battalion after the action at Voilaines on 22nd October 1914, the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée. It was not until 23rd March 1916 that he was deemed to have been killed in action 'on or since' that date and that Form B.104 should be sent to his next of kin informing them of this. In total he had served 6 years 247 days with the Regiment.

However, on 15th May 1919 his sister Emily (? See above) wrote to the MOD asking about Jack's whereabouts - on the advice of the Editor of the Northampton Chronicle. She requested any information as her (and Jack's) parents "Having heard there are a large number of prisoners in Germany (they) are anxious to know if he is lucky enough to be among them". Accordingly, on 21st May the family were sent a copy of his Death Certificate, with deep regrets.

Sergeant 8921 Jack TURLAND
	Date of Death:	22 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'D' Company
	Age:	34
	Personal History:
	Jack was born in January 1890 in Northampton, the son of Jack and Jane Turland (90 Liverpool Road, Watford, Hertfordshire). He had an elder brother, Thomas, and a younger sister, Mabel. However, the 1911 Census (RG 14/7717) lists widower John Edwin Turland (House Painter) living at this address with Jane Carter - his Housekeeper, and three Carter children, Emily Bertha (aged 11), Edwin (8) and Wallace (6). At the time of his enlistment Jack's stated occupation was 'Milkman'. He was 5' 8.1" tall (1.73 m.), weighed 129 lbs. (9 stone 3lbs) had a 'fresh' complexion, grey eyes and brown hair. His stated religion was Church of England. On 2nd May 1912 Jack married Ellen Jane McTague at St Anne's Church, Belfast. Her home address was given as 18 The Hall, Tottenham, London. They had no children. Despite the fact that his death was not confirmed until 1916, Jack's wife was awarded a pension of 10/- (50p) per week with effect from 27th September 1915. After the War Ellen was living at 78 Seaford Road, West Green, Tottenham, but later remarried, becoming Mrs Gaynor, and moved to 236 Springfield Road, Belfast.

Private 7227 Francis WARREN (A.R.)
	Date of Death:	14 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'A' Company
	Age:	34
	Personal History:
	Francis was born in the June quarter 1879 at Salford, Lancashire, the son of Samuel (Blacksmith) and Mary Warren of Ruby Road, Salford. He had three older siblings, George, Amelia and Mary A., and a younger sister, Elizabeth (1891 Census RG 12/3225). Mary died in 1897/8 and in 1901 (Census RG 13/3737) Francis, working as a 'Turner', was living with his widowed father and sister Elizabeth at 12 Ruby Street, Salford. Another baby, Annie, aged 5 months, is listed as a 'daughter'. At the time of his enlistment Francis's stated occupation was 'Joiner's Labourer'. He was 5' 5½" tall (1.65 m.), weighed 121 lbs. (8 stone 9lbs) had a 'fresh' complexion, brown eyes and dark brown hair. His stated religion was Church of England. On 4th November 1907 Francis married Ethel Adams at Salford, Manchester. In 1911 they were living at 3 Croydon Street, Oxford Street, Salford (Census RG 14/24050) with children Amelia (born 17th February 1909) and Ernest (11th November 1911). Later a third child, Ethel, was born on 15th April 1914. With effect from 5th July 1915 Ethel was awarded a pension of 20/6 (£1.025p) per week for herself and their three children. In November 1914 the family had moved to 101 Robert Hall Road, Salford. Later she moved again to 3 Croyden St., Salford, Manchester.

Military History:

Francis enlisted into the 2nd Battalion at Altrincham, Cheshire aged 22 years 5 months, on 26th August 1903 on a 3 + 9 period of service (i.e. 3 years Active Service followed by 9 years in the Reserve.) He was posted to the 2nd Battalion on 19th October 1903, transferring to the 1st on 16th May 1904.

On 25th March 1904 Francis was 'admonished' for being late for tattoo and roll call, returning drunk, and again in April (11/12th) received 5 days CB (Confined to Barracks) for a similar offence. These were both whilst in Southampton waiting transfer to India where he arrived at Colaba on 1st October. On arrival in October 1904 Francis rejoined the 2nd Battalion and was almost immediately treated in Hospital at Wellington for 'severe contagion' and also for a tape worm. On his return to England (24th November 1906) Francis was transferred to the Army Reserve 2 days later.

As a Reservist he was recalled at the outbreak of War, mobilizing at Chester on 5th August, and sailed from Belfast with the 1st Battalion, entering France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'A' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the left flank under Captain Dyer.

On 28th October 1914 Francis was reported missing from the Battalion from the 14th, but is was not until 2nd December 1915 that the Army Council deemed that his death had occurred "on or since" the 14th (Army Form B 104 - 82a) and that next of kin should be advised accordingly. In total he had served 11 years 50 days with the Regiment.

His wife, Ethel, had written to the Pay and War Offices on 28th October and 11th December 1914 and again in March 1915 asking for further details. In the first of these letters she said she hadn't heard from Francis since 14th September and didn't know if "He was dead or alive".

From the War Diary the 13th October is a more likely date for Francis' death when the Battalion was in the trenches at Festubert:

Private 6508 Edward LOWE
	Date of Death:	28 October 1914 (Killed in Action)
	Panel No:	13
	Unit:	'D' Company
	Age:	31
	N.B.	Edward's name was not in the original published list, but his MIC clearly shows he entered France with the original Battalion as part of the B.E.F.
	Personal History:
	Edward was born on born 19th July 1883 at 55 Lockhill Street, Monks, Copperhall, Nantwich, Cheshire, the son of James and Misey Agnes Lowe (née Day). Edward had four older brothers, Salisbury, Harold, George and Jeremiah J., a younger brother, John, and a younger sister, Annie (1891 Census RG 13/2851). The family had a considerable military background. Father James is believed to have been in 53rd Foot and brothers Salisbury, Harold and Jeremiah all served. Harold was attached to 2nd Battalion S/Lancs. Regiment (456889) and was wounded at La Bassée on the same day as Edward. On 5th August 1905 Edward married Selina Smith and they lived at 96 Albert Street, Crewe. At the time of his marriage he was working as a "Goods Labourer for the Railway". The 1911 Census (RG 14/21773) the family had moved to 13 Frank Street, Crewe, and had two children, George, born in 1906, and Annie, born in 1910. Later they had John Jack, born 27th February 1912.Regiment.

Military History:

Edward enlisted into the 1st Battalion at Manchester. His Service Records are unavailable and were probably destroyed by Second World War bombing. However, his service number would suggest he enlisted in 1901/02 on a 7 + 5 period of service (i.e. 7 years Active Service followed by 5 years in the Reserve.) This would tie in with his date of birth, making him 18 years old at the time.

As a Reservist he was recalled to the 1st Battalion at the outbreak of War and sailed from Belfast on board the S.S. Massilia, entering France on 16th August, confirmed by his Medal Index Card. As a member of 'D' Company he saw action at Audregnies on the 24th August, on the right flank under Captain Rae-Jones or Captain Rich.

Edward was one of the 53 NCOs and men ultimately deemed to have been killed in action at Voilaines on the last day of the Battalion's action to take La Bassée.