THE ASHTON TERRITORIALS in 1917

THE 9th BATTALION of the MANCHESTER REGIMENT.

"GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN THAN THIS, THAT A MAN LAY DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS". John 15:13.

The Headlines of the Ashton Reporter on 3rd February 1917.

ASHTON TERRITORIALS RESCUED FROM TORPEDOED LINER.  

 Published in the Reporter 3rd February 1917.

Mr. Joseph Bromley, one of the Audenshaw special constables, who resides in Pitt Street, Hooley Hill, has received an interesting letter from his brother-in-law, Pte. HAROLD COOKE of the Ashton Territorials, in which he describes his experience on a liner that was torpedoed. Pte. COOKE'S home is in West St. Hooley Hill, and he belongs to a family of brothers who are serving. He was one of the smartest junior footballers in the district, and played in the Independent's forward line in 1914 in their titanic struggle for the Colonel John Wood Cup. He, along with his relatives, is attached to the Bridge St. Congregational Sunday School, his name being on the Roll of Honour. Prior to enlistment he was a mill operative in Ashton. The account of the Ashton Territorials experiences are described as follows:-

They left Oswestry and arrived in France the following day. Then they were at various rest camps until the 28th December, when they embarked on the Ivernia at Marseilles for Egypt. Whilst the boys of the 9th were sitting together on deck, talking of Ashton and those they had left behind, wondering how they were spending New Years Day, a terrible crash was heard. Some said a boiler had burst, but the actual cause was soon known when all the lifeboats were lowered. Destroyers came to the rescue at once. They were also assisted by trawlers. Some took to the rafts, amongst them was Pte. HAROLD COOKE, who was rescued about 2 o'clock in the afternoon by H.M.S. ?  

Published in the Ashton Reporter 3rd February 1917.

ASHTON TERRITORIALS RESCUED FROM TORPEDOED TRANSPORT.

We have received from Cpl. G.McGREGOR of the 1st/9th Manchesters, Ashton Territorials, a photo of the men who were on the transport Ivernia when the vessel was torpedoed in the Mediterranean on New Years Day. The names of the men are: Cpl. G.McGREGOR,  Pte. J.SLATER, Pte. H.COOKE, Pte. A.BROADHURST, L/Cpl. A.BOSTOCK, Pte G.MONKS, Pte A.PRESTWICH, Pte. C.DAVIS. The men are now safe in Egypt.

They had a thrilling experience, one man, L/Cpl. J.BOSTOCK, being in the sea for over three hours, and owing his life to the fact that he is a strong swimmer.

A graphic story is told in a letter sent to his mother this week by Pte. C.DAVIS, whose home is at 150, Charles Street, Ashton. Pte. DAVIS writes: - "Dear Mother, I am very pleased to inform you that I am back with the old boys in the battalion. After my experiencing  ????(illegible) on the Ivernia I consider myself very fortunate in being spared to write you once again.  It was 11 o'clock on New Years Day when I was sat on the deck and I heard a crash and I did not know what was the matter until I looked around at the funnel of the ship and there was coal and wood being sent upwards. So I fastened my lifebelt, as I knew it was going to be a dip. Then I got in my lifeboat and we were hoisted down from the davit and we were being knocked about in the little boat with the sea being so rough, and the lifeboat I was in began to fill with water, so we commenced to bale out the water. We were in a bad state for two hours, and the big boat was sinking all the time, and there were men in the water shouting for help, but our boat was full, and we could not take anymore on board".

Published in the Reporter 10th March 1917.

ONE OF THE 1/9TH.

Ashton Territorials Honour.

Mentioned in Dispatches.

Sgt. WHITHAM (Rifle Brigade) of Gerrard Street, Ashton, has been mentioned in dispatches.

He has been in France 25 months and has seen some heavy fighting at Ypres and the Somme. He worked at the Bradford Colliery, Manchester before the war.         

Published in the Reporter 17th February 1917.

FATAL BOMB ACCIDENT.

Private 41558 HUGH CAMPBELL WHITE, oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. William White, of 121 Welbeck Street, Ashton, has been killed by a hand grenade, which burst prematurely in the trench. Private WHITE (1825) was with the Ashton Territorials at the Dardanelles, being invalided home with dysentery. He volunteered for the firing line, and was attached to the 18th Battalion Manchester Regiment in France. He was only 19 years of age. Private WHITE, who was connected to the Mill Lane Wesleyan School, worked at Beely's(?) Works, Hyde, as an apprentice boilermaker. Lieutenant W. MARSDEN BARRATT, of the 9th Manchester Regiment, attached to the 18th Manchester wrote the following : - "Dear Mrs. White, I feel that I must write to express to you my deepest sympathy in your great loss. I remember him in Gallipoli with the good old 9th, and when I became attached to the 18th battalion Manchester Regiment, I was very glad to see at least one face that I knew. He had always a smile, and was one of the bravest boys that I have ever known. I hope you will find comfort in your sorrow knowing that your boy died like a man serving his King and country". (Hugh C White died on the 29th January. He is buried in Beauval Communal Cemetery). 

 

THE 9th BATTALION, ONWARDS TO FRANCE!

The 9th Battalion were the last troops of the 42nd Division to arrive in France. They disembarked at Marseilles on the 11th March 1917, and were transported by train to Pont Remy, arriving there on the 14th March.

Published in the Reporter April 21st 1917.

ONE OF THE 1/9TH.

Ashton Man's Death in Egypt.

A GREAT FAVOURITE.

Mr & Mrs Kerr, of Park Street, Ashton, have received unwelcome intelligence that their son, Pte. 1984 JAMES EDWARD KERR, of the 1/9th Manchester Regiment has died of pneumonia at the 25th Stationary Hospital, Ismailia (Suez Canal). He was 30 years of age and was connected with the old Volunteers for several years before the war broke out. He was previously employed as a stripper and grinder for Messrs. Rayners Ltd, and was well known due to his connections with the Ashton-Under-Lyne Botanical Society. Captain F.W. KERSHAW, of the 1/9th Manchester Regiment, has written the following letter to Mr KERR.

B.E.F. France 9.4.17.  "Dear Mr Kerr - Probably by the time this letter reaches you, you will have received the sad news of your son's death in hospital in Egypt. He had been in my Company (B Company) a long time, and I knew him very well, and I may say that he was a great favourite with both officers and men. Although not very strong physically, he went through the whole of the eight months on Gallipoli, and also the trying march from the Suez Canal to El Arish without going sick once - in itself a record, and speaks volumes for his grit. I well remember when we were about to start on the trying desert march last July, I thought your son would probably be better left behind at the base, but he was very anxious to come with the Company. "I should be much happier coming with the Company and cooking for the lads Sir," he said, and so he came along with us. You have every reason to be extremely proud of him. He was a noble lad and showed a splendid example to others in the Company under very trying conditions on several occasions. I never remember hearing him grumble, whatever the difficult or trying nature of the job on hand, and I knew that I could always rely upon him to do his share to the upmost of his ability. We were very sorry to have to leave him behind in Egypt when we came to France, and are all more grieved than we can say at his untimely death, and on behalf of B Company's Officer, NCO's and men, I extend you our deepest sympathy in your sad trouble. You have lost a good son, and we a good, true and trusted comrade, but we can all remember him as a splendid example of an Englishman, full of grit and spirit, and cheerfulness, and I repeat, you have every cause to be very proud of him indeed. I hand you a copy of the burial certificate, and a letter, and should you desire any further information regarding your son, I shall only be too glad to be of service to you".

Garrison Chaplain A.S. HUCHENS, of the St. John's Garrison Church, Ismailia, has also written a letter, in which he says - "Private 1954 J. KERR, 1/9th Manchesters, was ill some days in the 25th Stationary Hospital, Ismailia. He was well looked after, and at first seemed to be doing well. But on March 3rd he became much worse. I had seen him every day, and on March 4th I went at 7.30am to see him and pray with him. He was very ill, but was able to speak to me quite clearly. After prayer I went to see a few men in the same ward, and ten minutes after went back to him. At that moment he became unconscious, and died in the most quiet way possible. It was difficult to realise that his soul had gone so quickly and peacefully. He was buried in a nice cemetery near by in the afternoon by me. I am sorry for your loss." (James Edward Kerr is buried in the Ismailia War Memorial Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter April 28th 1917.

ASHTON TERRITORIAL.

STRETCHER BEARER SUCCUMBS TO WOUNDS.

News has been received of the death, through wounds received in action, of Stretcher Bearer (Drummer) 350908  EDWARD HODGKINSON,  son of the late Mr. James Hodgkinson and Mrs Maria Hodgkinson of 8 and 10, Corporation Street, Stalybridge. He joined the 2/9th Battalion, Manchester Regiment early in 1915, and had been with them at Colchester until they left for France a few weeks ago. He attended Albion Sunday School, where he was a teacher for many years. He had been a member of the Boys Life Brigade since it's formation, and was a most energetic worker, and formed one of the squad who won the J.W.Kenworthy Ambulance Shield. Much sympathy is felt for his mother and family in their sorrow. He was held in esteem by all his many friends, and will be greatly missed.

Captain GORDON WHITEHEAD, Medical Officer of the 2/9th has written to Mrs Hodgkinson as follows: - "I feel it my duty to write to you to say how very much I deplore the sad fate of your son Eddie. He was one of my most capable stretcher bearers, which believe me, is saying a great deal. I have, through long contact with the men of this unit, come to look upon them, more especially the bearers, as my brothers. He, with the rest of them, was always willing, always cheerful, and always anxious to render what aid he could towards the wounded or the sick. His work of mercy was always thorough, and he spared himself no physical discomfort to see his work was quickly and efficiently done." (Edward Hodgkinson is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 5th May 1917.

ASHTON TERRITORIAL.

HURST SOLDIER KILLED BY A STRAY SHELL IN FRANCE.

Mrs Lord, of 17, Marland Street, Hurst, has been informed by a message from a chum, and also by one of the Ashton Territorials over on leave from France, that her eldest son, Private 351625 HARRY LORD, was killed by a stray shell in France on April 26th. The Territorial who broke the news added that he was lucky not to have been killed by the same shell.

Pte. LORD joined the 3/9th Manchesters together with his younger brother, Pte. GRANVILLE LORD, who is still in France, about two years ago. He was 22 years of age, and formerly worked as a piecer at the Cavendish Mill, Ashton.  (Harry Lord is buried in Epehy Wood Farm Cemetery, Epehy). 

Published in the Reporter 5th May 1917.

KILLED WHILE BANDAGING COMRADE.

ASHTON SOLDIERS DEATH REPORTED BY A CHUM.

Whilst acting as a stretcher bearer and bandaging a comrade, Private 351494 WILLIAM NALLY, of the 1/9th Battalion Manchester Regiment (Ashton Territorials) was killed by a shell. A chum. Private J. BOSTOCK who has broken the news of her sons death to Mrs NALLY, of Albion Terrace, Ashton, says he and another chum had run to rest near the line(? illegible). Pte. NALLY, who was 30 years of age, worked as a minder at the Malborough Mill, Oldham. A brother of Private NALLY, Driver TOM NALLY, of the 181st Brigade R.F.A returned home from hospital the day the news of the death of his brother arrived. He had been suffering from a slight wound in the leg and trench fever.  (William Nally is recorded on the Thiepval Memorial). 

Published in the Reporter 5th May 1917.

SAD LOSSES.

ASHTON LICENSEE BEREAVED OF WIFE, DAUGHTER AND SON.

TERRITORIAL KILLED.

Much sympathy has been expressed with Mr TOM LOWE, licensee of the Beaver Inn, Bentinck Street, Ashton, who has received an official intimation of the death of his son, Private 48496 SYDNEY LOWE, of the 3/9th Battalion, Manchester Regiment, attached to the 19th Battalion Manchester Regiment. It will be remembered that Mr Lowe had previously suffered a double bereavement. A daughter was burned to death early in the New Year, and shortly afterwards his wife died. Pte. SYDNEY LOWE, who was killed on April 2nd, resided at the Beaver Inn. He worked at the Tudor Mill as a piecer before he enlisted in the 3/9th and had been in France since February. He was 22 years of age, and married. Another son, Pte. NORMAN LOWE is serving with the 2/9th Battalion Manchester Regiment. (SYDNEY LOWE is recorded on the Arras Memorial to the missing).

 Published in the Reporter 5th May 1917.

The parents of Pte. JOHN ASHWORTH, 2/9th Manchesters, who reside at 7. Mill St. Dukinfield, have received intimation from the Record Office at Shrewsbury that he has been injured in France. Since then Pte. ASHWORTH has sent a letter from the 7th General Hospital stating that he was wounded in action, as a result of which his right leg has had to be amputated below the knee.  He was also wounded in the head and chest by shrapnel, and two fingers of his left hand injured. Pte. ASHWORTH is 27 years of age and single.  Up to the time of enlisting he was a turner at Messrs Jones, Guidebridge, and was connected with Dukinfield Hall Day and Sunday Schools. 

Published in the Reporter 5th May 1917.

POPULAR ASHTON SOLDIER KILLED.

"ALWAYS WILLING".

Deep and sincere sympathy has been expressed with Mr & Mrs T. PENNINGTON, of the Hollies, Newmarket Rd. Ashton, in the loss through war of the second of four sons who had joined the Army. For several days they had been held in anxious suspense owing to a letter they had sent to their son, Pte. 350112 JOHN PENNINGTON in France, having been returned.  Enquiries were made at both the Home Office and at Preston, but nothing definite could be learned. On Tuesday a letter was received from France from Major E.H. SCOTT as follows: - "Dear Mr Pennington, I am writing to tell you how much we all regret the death of your son. He was Company Clerk, and was of the greatest assistance to the Company Sergt. Major and myself. He was very popular with all ranks, and was always willing to help, and nothing was ever too much trouble for him. His death was instantaneous, as he was hit by a shell when leaving Company headquarters".

Pte. 352110 JOHN PENNINGTON joined the 2/9th Manchester Regiment on January 22nd 1916, and went to France on March 3rd of the present year. Prior to enlisting, he was a clerk in the office of Messrs. Pennington and Son, accountants, Manchester, and was a former scholar of Albion school. He would have attained his majority on 29th August next. He was beloved by all for his kindly and straightforward manner.  

 Pte. 1602 FRED PENNINGTON, an elder brother, who was in the 1/9th Manchesters, and was mobilised at the outbreak of war, died in a military hospital at Liverpool in October 1914, following an attack of appendicitis. Pte. TOM PENNINGTON, another brother, has been in France several months, whilst yet another brother, GEORGE PENNINGTON, who came over from Australia, and is a Private in the 8th Reinforcement A.I.F. expects going across any day now. (John Pennington is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 12th May 1917.

        ONE OF THE 2/9th.

Ashton Territorial Killed in France.

An official intimation has been received by Mr & Mrs Parry, of 93, Cambridge St. Ashton, that their son L/Cpl 351169 JAMES PARRY had been killed in Action in France on April 21st. L/Cpl PARRY enlisted in the 2/9th Territorials in Ashton in October 1914, but he had only been in the fighting line a few weeks before he was killed. Before he enlisted he was employed at Mr E Catlow's Leather Stretching Works, Denton, as foreman. He had been employed there for 14 years. He was 32 years of age, and received his early education at Ryecroft Independent Schools.

Published in the Reporter 12th May 1917.

ONLY CHILD KILLED AFTER NINE WEEKS IN FRANCE.

Sad circumstances attached to the news of the death of Pte. 352452 JOHN WILLIAM HULME, 2/9th Manchester Regiment, of 13, Anglesey St. Waterloo. The information was received on Saturday by his parents, Mr & Mrs William Hulme, and it was more regrettable inasmuch as Mrs Matilda Hulme had only been home a week from hospital, where she had undergone an operation. Pte. HULME was their only child, and it was with deep sympathy for Mr & Mrs Hulme that the people of the village heard of the sad occurrence.

Pte. HULME was 19 years of age, and was formerly employed at the Rock Mill, Waterloo as a piecer. He enlisted twelve months ago and had only been in France nine weeks, and his spirit gained him the affection of his comrades. The letter announcing his death was from his Lieutenant who spoke of him as a sturdy and fearless soldier. Pte. HULME was in the Lewis Gun Section, and a letter from his sergeant reflects the popularity which the young soldier had achieved. It was dated May 3rd, and stated that Pte. HULME was enjoying a little sunshine when a shell came along and killed him and another boy. We had learned to look on him as a brother more than a mate, a good man at his work, and he gained the admiration of everyone he came in contact with, always a bright little fellow, who did all required of him with a smile. Pte. HULME was brought up in connection with the Waterloo Wesleyan Church and School, and along with his parents, was very much respected in the district. (William Hulme is recorded on the Tyne Cot Memorial to the missing).

 Published in the Reporter 12th May 1917.

POPULAR TERRITORIAL N.C.O.

HIT BY A STRAY SHELL WHILE GOING TO SEE THE DOCTOR.

An official confirmation of the news, which had reached her from another source of the death of her son, Sergeant 350826 PERCY BRAY, has been received by Mrs Bray of 93, Grosvenor Street, Ashton.

Sgt. BRAY was killed in action on April 18th, presumably by a stray shell whilst he was going to see the doctor.

Sgt. BRAY had an exemplary character, and was one of the most popular NCO's in the 2/9th Manchester Regiment which he joined in September 1914. He made himself an efficient drill instructor and did good work at both Southport and Cressborough. He was 39 years of age and unmarried. He formerly worked as a Minder at the Minerva Spinning Co. and had attended St. Peters Church. (Percy Bray is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 12th May 1917.

"A WELL TRIED WARRIOR"

ASHTON TERRITORIAL KILLED.

Mrs McClusky, of 126, Cavendish Street, Ashton, has been informed of the death of her husband, Pte. 350582 HARRY McCLUSKY, one of the 1st/9th Battalion Manchester Regiment in France on April 29th, by a message from the chaplain and by a comrade who is over on short leave (Pte. GEORGE McCREA.) On Wednesday, Major JOHN  BROADBENT, who is also over on leave, called and tendered the condolences of the officers and men of the Ashton Territorials to Mrs. McClusky. He said that Pte. McCLUSKY was one of the old boys of the Ninth, and was very popular and well liked by everyone. The message sent by the chaplain stated that Pte. H. McCLUSKY was killed by shellfire on April 29th. "All that I hear of your husband from his officers and comrades makes me know what a fine and well-tried warrior your husband was. You must indeed be proud of him. Many of his officers and comrades were at the graveside to join in our prayers for him and for all you at home".

Pte. McCLUSKY was 28 years of age. He leaves a widow and four children under seven years of age. He went out to Egypt with the First and Ninth, being accompanied by his brother, FRANK McCLUSKY, who has been invalided out of the battalion. Another brother, JIM McCLUSKY, has been also discharged after being badly gassed. The father, Pte. FRANK McCLUSKY is also serving. Pte. HARRY McCLUSKY worked as a miner at the New Moss Colliery. (Harry McClusky is buried in the Tincourt New British Cemetery).

 

Published in the Reporter 12th May 1917.

ONE OF THE 2/9th WHO HAS MET HIS DEATH IN FRANCE.

Pte.351639 WILFRED BATTY, 2/9th Manchesters, son of Mr & Mrs Joseph Batty of 13, Wellbeck Street, Ashton, was killed in France on April 20th. He was formerly employed at Messrs. Hall & Kays, Guidebridge, and enlisted two years ago, leaving Colchester  for France five weeks since. He attended St. Peters Church, Ashton, as well as the day and Sunday school. His brother, Pte. JOSEPH BATTY of the 1st/9th Manchesters is also in France, after going through the Egyptian and Dardanelle campaign. Another brother,  WILLIAM BATTY, is in the Naval Air Service, and stationed in London.  Major E.H.SCOTT has written the following letter to Pte. BATTY'S parents: - "Dear Mr & Mrs Batty, I am writing to you on behalf of his comrades to express their sympathy to you on account of the death of your son. I hope it will be a consolation to you to know that he was doing his duty at the time. He was always a steady soldier, and we shall miss him very much. His death was absolutely instantaneous. I am enclosing a cheque for 8s.4d, being the value of a ten franc note we found in his kit - Believe me, yours faithfully, E.H.SCOTT, Major". (Wilfred Batty is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery).

 Published in the Reporter 26th May 1917.

ASHTON CO-OP EMPLOYEE.

TERRITORIAL KILLED IN ACTION.

Private 350840 HERBERT CHRISTIAN, aged 22, of the 1/9th Manchester Regiment, son of Mr & Mrs W. CHRISTIAN, undertakers, 85, Katherine Street, Ashton, formerly a grocers assistant  employed by the Ashton Co-operative Society at their Blandford Street shop, has been killed in action.

(Herbert Christian is buried in the Templeux-Le-Guerard British Cemetery).

Published on the Reporter 26th May 1917.

FAMILY OF FIGHTERS.

TWO SONS KILLED. 

Mrs T. VERRALL of Dukinfield has received official notification that her son, Private 352014 JAMES HOWARD of the 1/9th Manchester Regiment was killed in action in France on May 7th whilst taking part in  military operations connected with his Company. Pte. HOWARD was 22 years of age, and joined the Army in September in 1915. Previous to joining, he was an apprentice boilermaker at Messrs. Daniel Adamson & Sons, Hyde. He was connected to St. Marks Church and Sunday school, and took an interest in football and other recreations connected with the school.

Major T.E. HOWARD O.C, A Company 1/9th Battalion, Manchester Regiment writes: - " Dear Mrs Verrall, It is with deep regret that I have to inform you of a great loss. Your son, Pte. J. HOWARD took part in some operations undertaken by "A" Company on the night of the 7th inst. As he was returning with the Company, a bullet caught him and he fell down dead. There was no pain or suffering, and I could hardly realise that he was dead as he lay quietly with a smile on his face. Please accept my deepest sympathy with you in your great loss. Your son was a good soldier, and like so many others has been called to give his all for the cause of the right. He, with others, was buried at a cemetery near, which will be always cared for as a bit of England".  It is only nine months ago since Mrs Verrall lost her eldest son, Pte. PERCY HOWARD, who died in September 1916. He was married, and resided at 141, Cotton St. Ashton. Mrs Verrall's first husband, who was the father of the son's referred to above, was also associated with the Army. He went through the Boer War Campaign, and was afterwards employed as a shunter at Dukinfield Station, where he accidentally met his death.  She married again about three years ago and her husband Pte. THOMAS VERRALL is now serving in the Army Service Corps as a field baker. He has also served in the Boer War, and has now been out in France for about two years. He has two sons in the Army, Pte. GEORGE VERRALL, 1/9th Battalion, Manchester Regiment, aged 20 years, who joined about the same time as his stepbrother, JAMES HOWARD, and was his constant companion. His other son, Pte. THOMAS HENRY VERRALL is at present training with the Reserve Battalion. (James Howard is buried in the Templeux-Le-Guerard British Cemetery).

 Published in the Reporter 26th May 1917.

FATHER AND SON.

Fought Side by Side and Both Killed.

Mrs Handley of 126, Cotton Street, Ashton, whose husband, Corporal ROBERT HANDLEY was killed during the glorious charge of the Ashton Territorials in Gallipoli on June 7th 1915, which was led by Captain F. HAMER and Lieutenant A.E. STRINGER, has received news of the death in France of her son, Pte. 350431 WILLIAM HANDLEY, who was also in the Ninth Battalion, and went out to Egypt with his father, when he was but 16 years of age. Shortly after his fathers death, Pte. HANDLEY was invalided home through shock, but not before he had fought nobly, and well with Lieutenant W. FORSHAW, when the latter won the V.C. in the Vineyard. Pte. HANDLEY went back out to Egypt for the second time last Christmas, and accompanied the Battalion to France.

Major T.E. HOWORTH, O.C. A Company writes: - "It is with deep sorrow I have to tell you of a heavy loss you have to bear. I know that already you have been called upon to give your husband, and now I have to tell you that your son has been called upon to make the supreme sacrifice. May strength be given you to bear this deepest sorrow. Pte. HANDLEY came out with me in September 1914, and later rejoined us in Egypt. I knew him pretty well, and in the old days in Egypt it was nice to see father and son together, as they are now, although we cannot see them.

Your son was with my Company in an advance on the night of May 6/7th. During that advance he was struck by a bullet and instantly Killed, I saw him afterwards. There was no disfigurement on his face. His body was laid to rest along side that of one of his friends, L/Cpl. STANLEY GREEN of Ryecroft House, in a British cemetery near here".  Pte. WILLIAM HANDLEY was 19 years of age. He worked as a piecer at the ?? Tame Valley. (William Handley is buried in the Templeux-Le-Guerard British Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 2nd June 1917.

FIVE BROTHERS SERVING.

The Youngest An Ashton Territorial Killed in Action.

Mr & Mrs GREEN of Ryecroft House, Ryecroft St. Ashton, have been informed by Major T.E. HOWORTH of the death of the youngest of their five sons who are serving. Lance Corporal 351697 STANLEY GREEN, of the Ashton Territorials. Corporal GREEN used to belong to the Boys Brigade which was commanded by Major HOWORTH in connection with Ryecroft Church. In his letter, Major HOWORTH said that he was glad to find Lance Corporal GREEN in his Company when he rejoined in Egypt. Lance Corporal GREEN was killed instantly whilst going forward in an attack on the night of 6th and 7th May. "He was a good lad and soldier," added Major HOWORTH. "It was only about a week or ten days since I recommended him for the Lance Corporal stripe". One son of Mr & Mrs GREEN has been discharged out of the Army. The others who are still serving are : Sergt. HAROLD GREEN (Duke of Wellington's Own), now reported to be wounded. Acting Sergeant Major ERNEST GREEN in Salonika, and Private ARTHUR GREEN, who is serving in the Manchester Regiment in India. (Stanley Green is buried in the Templeux-Le-Guerard British Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 2nd June 1917.

Private JOSEPH APLIN

"Life and Soul of His Platoon."

News was received last weekend by Mr. John Aplin, of 19, Keb Lane, Bardsley, of the death in action of his youngest son, Private 351342 JOSEPH APLIN, 2/9th Manchester Regiment. The information was contained in a letter from his officer, Second Lieut. J. DONNELEY, who paid the deceased soldier a very fine tribute. The letter was dated May 23rd, and said - "It is with extreme regret that I have to inform you of the death of your son, Private JOSEPH APLIN from shell wounds received yesterday. We had come out of the line the night before, and were in rest billets when your son was hit. He was rendered unconscious, and died in a few hours, so that he felt no pain. I cannot say how we all miss him, for he was the life and soul of the platoon, always cheery, no matter what the circumstances. He had been on a raid with me the other night, entering into it with his usual keenness and pluck, and had come through it all without so much as a scratch. Of course, it is impossible for us to know the great sorrow this letter must cause you, but all the Company wish me to express their heartfelt sympathy with you in your loss. In spite of everything, however, it will be a comfort to you to know that your son, although but a lad, died a man's death for his country's sake." Private JOSEPH APLIN was only 19 years of age. He enlisted when only 17, and had been in the Army for two years before being sent to the front. He went to France about three months ago. He was previously a collier, employed at the Bardsley Pit, and he was a scholar at Bardsley Church School, and an attender of the church. His father, Mr. John Aplin is an ex soldier and an ex policeman. He served in the Afghanistan War, and when the late King Edward, then Prince of Wales, visited India in 1875 Mr. Aplin formed one of his guard of honour. Mr. Aplin was then in the 2nd Queen's Regiment, and after leaving the Army he served in the police forces successfully at Cardiff, Bromwich and Bristol. (Joseph Aplin is buried Bethune Town Cemetery).

 Published in the Reporter June 9th 1917.

WATERLOO SOLDIER KILLED.

Territorial Who Was Twice Wounded.

In Waterloo the deepest sympathy has been expressed to Mrs. THOMAS in the loss she has sustained of her only son, Private 350379 ROBERT ALLEN L THOMAS, 1/9th Manchester Regiment, Ashton Territorials. He was killed in action on May 16th, and information to that effect was conveyed to his mother from the War Office this week. Previously she had received a letter from his Commanding Officer, Major Howarth, dated May 18th, which said as follows: -"It is with very deep regret that I have to write and tell you of a heavy loss you have received. Your son, Pte. R.A.L.THOMAS was with his Company in the trenches this week and whilst on sentry duty on the 16th inst. he was shot by a sniper. He just fell back dead; there was no pain or suffering at all. His body was laid to rest in a cemetery near by, alongside those of some of his comrades who had fallen last week. I am very sorry indeed..." (Robert Allen L Thomas is buried in the Templeux-Le-Guerard British Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 9th June 1917.

GALLANT SOLDIER.

Captain Kershaw's Tribute to An Ashton Territorial.

 Mr. & Mrs. TINDALL, of 2, Wood Street, Ashton, have been notified by the military authorities that their son, Pte. JOHN TINDALL, of the 1/9th Manchester Regiment, was killed in action by a sniper on May 7th.

Pte. 350504 TINDALL joined the 1/9th Battalion Manchester Regiment before the war broke out, and was well liked and respected by all who knew him for his marked ability in the execution of his duty. He went through the Gallipoli engagements, where he was slightly wounded, and subsequently invalided home suffering from dysentery. He was placed in hospital in Manchester, and afterwards sent to Blackpool where he recovered, and was drafted out to Egypt, and then to France, where he had been with his Regiment about three months. He was 19 years of age, and formerly was employed as a piecer at the Minerva Spinning Co. He was connected to St. Mary's Catholic Church and Sunday School, and was a bugler in the Boy's Brigade. (John Tindall is buried in the Templeux-Le-Guerard British Cemetery).   

 Published in the Reporter 18th June 1917.

HURST SOLDIER KILLED.

Joined the Territorials on the Outbreak of War.

Official news has been received by Mrs Platt, of 171, Whiteacre Road, Hurst, that her son, Pte. 350941 HAROLD ROWE, had died from wounds on 7th June.  Pte. HAROLD ROWE joined the 2/9th Battalion Territorials in September 1914, and proceeded to France in March last. He was 26 years of age. Prior to joining the Army he was in the employ of Mr A. Herberts, painter and decorator, King St. Hurst, and was highly respected by a large number of friends.

The following letter, supplemented by one from one of his colleagues, Corporal BARDSLEY, announcing his death, has been received by Mrs Platt - "Dear Mrs. Platt, I deeply regret to inform you that your son, Pte. H. ROWE has been admitted to the Clearing Station. He is wounded in the arm and neck and the doctors tell me that the wounds are serious indeed. I saw him today and tried to give him some comfort. I prayed with him and that seemed to make him happy. He said to me, "write to my mother, but do not make her anxious". Poor boy, he does not realise he is so ill, and it would be unkind on my part if I did not tell you that our hopes for his recovery are not very great. My deepest sympathy goes out to you, and I save my prayers to comfort your son in his great weakness. I will write again tomorrow. Yours Sincerely, Rev. JOHN A PATTEN". (Harold Rowe is buried in the Lillers Communal Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter Saturday 30th June 1917.

POPULAR WITH ALL RANKS.

Ashton Territorial Killed Instantly By a Shell.

Mrs. Walker of 115 Hulme St. Hurst, has received official information that her son Pte. 352715 JOHN WALKER of the 2/9th Manchester Regiment was killed in action on the 11th. Pte. WALKER was 22 years of age. He joined the army about two years ago and had been out in France about four months. Previous to joining the army, he was apprenticed to Mr HERBERT as a painter and decorator. He was connected with the St James' Sunday School, and was an active member of the cricket and football clubs associated with that school. His father, JAMES WALKER, who died about eighteen months ago, was formerly connected to the Ashton Territorials.

Captain H.V.SAMPSON of the 2/9th Manchester Regiment writes: - "Private WALKER was killed by a shell on the morning of the 11th June, death was instantaneous. Private WALKER had been in this Company for some considerable time, and was very popular with all ranks. He was a very efficient soldier, and always did his duty willingly and well". (John Walker is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery). 

    Published in the Reporter 30th June 1917.

FATHER AND SON KILLED.

Father at Munitions Works Disaster and Son at the Front.

A double misfortune has visited Mrs, ALLEN and her family, who reside at 143, Charles St. Ashton. In the terrible munitions works explosion the husband and father, Mr. THOMAS HENRY ALLEN  was instantly killed, and two days later news was received that a son, Pte. 350838 WILLIAM ALLEN of "B" Company, 2/9th Manchester Regiment, had been killed in action. Pte. ALLEN was 22 years of age, and formerly was employed at the New Moss Colliery. He joined the Army as a volunteer in September 1914. Captain SAMPSON, in a letter to Mrs ALLEN, stated that Pte. ALLEN was killed by a shell, along with four others on June 1st. "He was an excellent soldier, brave and obedient, and was very well liked by the officers and men of his Company". A brother, Corporal GEORGE ALLEN, is also in the 2/9th Manchester Regiment.  (William H Allen is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery).

 Published in the Reporter 7th July 1917.

MILITARY MEDAL.

DUKINFIELD SOLDIER'S HONOUR.

ASHTON TERRITORIAL.

Pte. A HOLDEN, son of Mr & Mrs HARRY HOLDEN of 72, Furnace Street, Dukinfield, has been awarded the Military Medal for bringing in wounded men on three occasions during August 26th from "No Man's Land" under hostile gunfire.

Pte. HOLDEN had been in the Ashton Territorials for eight years prior to the war, but on the outbreak of war he volunteered for active service. He has been in France for about two years.

Writing home on June 29th  to his parents, he said "I am very pleased to tell you that I have won the Military Medal with a special bar attached to it for gallantry in the field".

The gallant soldier is 27 years of age, and in civil life was employed as a miner at Bradford Colliery, near Manchester.  Two brothers are also in the Army, Pte. FRED HOLDEN 1/9th(?), at present in a convalescent hospital, and Pte. CLIFFORD HOLDEN 1/? Manchester Regiment, now in France and formerly an employee at Texas Mill. 

Published in the Reporter 7th July 1917.

ASHTON SOLDIER KILLED IN ACTION IN FRANCE.

Mr. James Harrop, herbalist, Old Street, Ashton, has received official news that his brother, Private SAM HARROP, of the 3/9th Manchester Regiment, was killed in France on June 22nd. He joined the Army under Lord Derby's group scheme, going out to France last March. Prior to enlisting he was employed at Newton Moor Spinning Co. as a joiner. He was a member of the Ashton P.S.A. Society, and is on their Roll of Honour. He was also an Ashton Buffalo. The sad news was first conveyed by Lieutenant NICHOLSON, who described Private HARROP as one of the most promising men in the platoon, and that he was very popular throughout the whole Company.

Published in the Reporter 7th July 1917.

BRAVE WATERLOO YOUTH.

The story which attaches to the death of Corporal 350351 JOSEPH WILDE, 1/9th Manchester Regiment, son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Wilde, of 10, Langham Street, Waterloo, constitutes an illuminating episode of bravery and devotion to duty, even unto death. This young soldier, who would have been 20 years of age on the 17th of this month, was killed on the 2nd June, according to the official news received at the latter end of last week, and yet, though so young, he was spoken about by his officers as one of the bravest and best non commissioned officers.

In Gallipoli and France he brought in wounded men under fire. In France a few days before he himself was killed he brought in a wounded soldier, Private FIELDING, from 300 yards in advance of his own position. The Private died, and Corporal WILDE was buried beside him. Corporal WILDE'S own brother helped to dig his grave, and he was buried next to a Lance-Corporal who went to fetch him in. Such is the story of his death, told more fully and with a high appreciation of his worth in  letters which his parents have received from Captain F.W.KERSHAW and Second Lieutenant ALFRED GRAY. Captain KERSHAW wrote: - "I cannot too highly praise your son. He was a fine lad, and a splendid example of Lancashire pluck and grit. He was much thought of and respected in the Company of his battalion. He did excellent work whilst in the Gallipoli Peninsula, and also whilst in France. Only a few days ago Lieutenant MARSDEN and Private FIELDING were hit out in front of our lines, and your son volunteered to go out and assist in bringing them in. He carried Private FIELDING back to our trenches, a distance of 300 yards, on his back. On two occasions in Gallipoli he also assisted in bringing in wounded under fire. He was a keen, capable, and very courageous non commissioned officer, and is greatly missed by officers and men of his Company on whose behalf I beg to extend to you our deepest sympathy at your terrible loss. Your son was brought in from the advanced trenches by some of his comrades. He was buried with fitting ceremony in a British soldiers cemetery, near to Lieutenant MARSDEN, Private FIELDING, and Private ASHCROFT, who were killed about the same time." Corporal WILDE was the eldest of a family of nine children and had been a member of the Ashton Territorials from the time they left England for Egypt. He had been slightly wounded in the face whilst at Gallipoli, and was evacuated back to Egypt, and from there was sent to France. He was previously employed as a piecer at the Rock Mill, Waterloo, Ashton. (Joseph Wilde is buried in the Neuville-Bourjonval British Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 7th July 1917.

KILLED BY SHELL 

 Ashton Territorial Who Re-joined When War Broke Out.

Mr. and Mrs. Hall, of 27, Bradgate Street, Ashton, have received the sad intelligence that their only son, Lance-Corporal 39649 J. HALL, of the 1/9th battalion, Manchester Regiment, was killed in action on April 11th. Lance-Corporal HALL joined the Ashton Territorials some years ago, and served about four years. On the outbreak of the war he re-joined, and went through the Dardanelles campaign, and did good service in Egypt. Under the direction of Major CONNERY, he qualified for the Machine Gun Section of the battalion, serving in the 126th Coy. He had been in France since February 1917. Previous to joining the army he worked at the New Moss Colliery as a winch winder. Mr. and Mrs Hall have received several letters from officers and men of the battalion expressing their deep sympathy. Major KIRKPATRICK wrote: - "Lance Corporal HALL was killed on April 11th, about 3.30pm, by a piece of shell hitting him in the neck. He died in a few minutes and was unconscious. He was a hard worker, and one of my best men, and will be a sad loss to us all." (J. Hall is buried in the Templeux-Le-Guerard British Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 7th July 1917.

TERRITORIAL GASSED.

Ashton Man's Death During Big Attack On Germans.

Mrs. R. Chadderton, of 43, Cotton Street, Ashton, has received official news that her husband, Private 350802 RICHARD CHADDERTON, of the 2/9th Battalion, Manchester Regiment, died from the effects of gas poisoning on June 13th. He had been in the army about three years, and had been in France since January this year, and was attached to the Machine Gun Section. Previous to joining the army he was employed as a collier at the Snipe Pit, where he had worked since he was 13 years of age. He leaves a widow and two young children. His eldest daughter was accidentally killed about two years ago on Odlham Road by a motorcar. He has a brother, Corporal CHADDERTON, who is with 2/9th Battalion, Manchester Regiment. He was a member of the Ashton Territorials, and was formerly stage manager at the Empire Hippodrome, Ashton. Private FRANK BURKE has written to Mrs. Chadderton stating - "Poor DICK met his death on Wednesday, June 13th. We had been hammering the Germans pretty badly for a few days before, and that morning they sent gas over and your poor husband had the misfortune to get some of it, with the result that he died shortly afterwards. He was a fine soldier, and was well liked by all the officers and N.C.O.'s and men in his Company." (Private RICHARD CHADDERTON is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery).

 Published in the Reporter July 14th 1917. 

KILLED BY SHELL.

We regret to record the death in France of a former "Reporter" employee, Private 352313 STANLEY BUCKLEY, of the 1/9th Battalion, Manchester Regiment (Ashton Territorials), son of Mr & Mrs Samuel Buckley, of Rose Mount, Littlemoss. Private BUCKLEY, according to his comrades, was killed in action on July 3rd.

Pte. JOHN BATTY, a chum of Pte. BUCKLEY, whose home is in Birch Street, Ashton, wrote " I am sorry to inform you that your son Stanley was killed between 12 and 1am this morning. I don't know if Stanley ever mentioned me in his letters, but during our training out in Egypt and here we have stuck to each other like brothers.  I, along with Stanley and a party, were warned off to do some wire laying in the front of the trench, when the enemy shelled our trench with their trench mortar. I am proud to tell you he met his death with a smile on his face, and that he in every way proved himself a true type of soldier and a pal."  Pte. BUCKLEY would have been 29 years of age next Tuesday. He was a machineman at the "Reporter Office" where he served his apprenticeship, and was a popular and genial member of the staff. He joined the 2/9th Battalion, Manchester Regiment in March 1916, and was later drafted to the 1/9th Battalion in Egypt, and later arrived in France. He attended the Taunton Sunday Schools, and was a member of the Waterloo and Taunton Liberal Club. The flag was hoisted half-mast at the club on the sad news being brought to the notice of the members. He is the first member of the Ashton Branch of the Typographical Society to fall in action. Two brothers are also in the forces, Pte. WILLY BUCKLEY is serving with the Royal Engineers in France, and Pte. SAMUEL BUCKLEY is at Whitchurch. (Stanley Buckley is buried in the Ruyaulcourt Military Cemetery).

Mr. Hodgin, now of Middleton Junction, but formerly residing in Stanhope Road, Hurst, has received official news that his only son, Pte. 352870 HAROLD HODGIN of the 2/9th Manchester Regiment has been killed in action. He was 22 years of age, and joined the army in September 1914. He was formerly employed as a piecer at the Curzon Mill. A letter from Pte. JACK COLDICUT states that HAROLD HODGIN was killed on the 12th June. He was always cheery and bright under all conditions, and was a good soldier and a true pal. (Harold Hodgin is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery).

Published in the Reporter 21st July 1917.

DUKINFIELD CORPORAL KILLED.

Rejoined Ashton Territorials When the War Broke Out.

Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Spurrett, 192, Park Road, Dukinfield, have received official notice from the military authorities that their son, Corporal 350520 ARTHUR SPURRETT,  "A" Company of the 1/9th Battalion Manchester Regt. was killed in action on June 26th 1917. He was 26 years of age. He had had previous training with the Ashton Territorials, and rejoined them in September 1914. He went through the Dardanelles campaign, where he was placed in charge of the machine gun section. He was afterwards laid up in hospital for some time with scalp wounds. He was also wounded while in Egypt. On recovering he came over for a short leave in April, and returned to France at the beginning of this year.  Previous to joining the army he was employed at the Sands Vale Print Works. As a youth he attended St. John's Day School, Dukinfield, and was also connected with the United Methodist Sunday School, Tame Valley. His youngest brother, Private THURSTON SPURRETT is in the 3/9th Manchester Regiment, and is at present in France. Previous to joining the army he was employed as a piecer at Messrs. Chadwick's, Tame Valley Mill. Another brother, Private HERBERT SPURRETT, aged 23 years, is at present training at Cleethorpes. He was employed as a 2nd man on the G.C. Railway before joining the army. Major HOWARTH, in a letter to the parents, states that Corporal SPURRETT and Lance Corporal BARKER went over the top on ??? patrol. They achieved their objective as far as it was possible, and were returning when Corporal SPURRETT was hit. He just spoke to his companion when he was again hit, and he breathed his last. (Arthur Spurrett is buried in Ruyaulcourt Military Cemetery).