A Sergeant with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Ralph died on 12th of February 1942 aged 21.Ralph was born at Ipswich on 11 June 1920, a son of Edgar Tomlinson and of Harriet Rhoda Tomlinson. In 1921 his family lived at 52 Fleet Street, Bury, Lancashire. On 31 July 1937 Ralph was appointed to a role with the Civil Service clerical class and, by 1939, when his family lived at Briardale, Chestnut Avenue, Oulton Broad, Ralph worked with the clerical section of the Post Office telephone department. Ralph joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve after May 1940. By February 1942 he was an Air Gunner serving with 455 Squadron. On 12 February 1942 Ralph was part of the crew of a Hampden 1 aircraft, number P1156 UB-F, flying from Wigsley, Nottinghamshire, as part of ‘Operation Fuller’ which was the attempt to intercept German battleship in the English Channel. Ralph’s aircraft was lost without trace off the Dutch coast.  WITH THANKS TO:Malcolm Barrass

A Lance Corporal with the 1st Battalion, Leslie died on 19th of June 1944 aged 31. 4 August 1912, a son of Thomas and Mary Tovell. In 1921 his family lived at The Warren, Carlton Colville.  On 16 April 1937 Leslie married Eileen Edith Easey at Holy Trinity Church, Gisleham. In 1939 they lived at Glanvill, Rushmere Road, Carlton Colville, and Leslie was a solicitor’s clerk.Leslie served with the 1st Battalion Royal Norfolk Regiment. His battalion landed at Normandy on D-Day. At some point, either on D-Day or in the following days, Leslie was wounded and evacuated to England. He died of wounds on 19 June and his death was registered in the Portsmouth district. 

A Sergeant with the 51st/69th Infantry Regiment, John died on 18th of April 1944 aged 30. John, also known as Jack, was born in the Basingstoke district in 1913, a son of Herbert and Nellie Elizabeth Townsend. In 1921 the family lived at Huddersfield and, some time later, moved to Lowestoft. John's mother died and his father then married Elsie Brown and they lived at 18 Oulton Road, Lowestoft. John married Violet Lilian Cutting, of Needham Market, in 1940. Violet was a mental health nurse and worked in Ipswich in 1939. Violet remarried in 1946.John worked at Eastern Coach Works. He joined the Royal Artillery (Territorial Army) in 1937. In 1943 the 51st Field Regiment and the 69th Anti-Tank Regiment were combined to for the 51st/69th Infantry Regiment Royal Artillery and this formation was part of the second Chindit force, forming 51 and 69 Columns, part of 16 Brigade and taking part in Operation Thursday in 1944. In April 1944 the 16 Brigade were in, and around Indaw, Burma, and were engaged in ambushing Japanese units. On 18 April both 14 and 16 launched a renewed attack on Indaw and John was killed in action that day. He was buried at Sahmaw War Cemetery and later reburied at Taukkyan War Cemetery. 

A Civilian, Florence died on 15th of May 1941 at the age of 62. Florence was born at Lowestoft on 8 February 1879, a daughter of Walter William and Mary Elizabeth Treloar. She was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 4 April 1880. In 1881 her family lived at 29 North Raglan Street. Florence’s father died in 1885. In 1891 her family lived at 11 Jacob’s Street. By 1901 Florence’s mother had married her paternal uncle, Horace Treloar, and the family lived at 30 Reeve Street and Florence was a dressmaker. They were still living at 30 Reeve Street, and Florence still a dressmaker, in 1911. In 1921 Florence’s family lived at 37 Reeve Street and Florence was a seamstress on her own account. In 1939 they were still living at 37 Reeve Street.Florence was injured, at her home, during an air raid on 13 May 1941 and later died at Lowestoft and North Suffolk Hospital.Florence's niece's husband, Arthur Pointer, also died in an air raid. 

A Rifleman with 1/5th Bn., Harry died on 25th of January 1917 at the age of 36. Harry was born at Lowestoft in 1881, a son of Harry Edward and Mary Ann Tripp. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley, on 25 December 1881. In 1891 his family lived at 80 High Street, Lowestoft, and this was still their home in 1901 when Harry was an elementary school teacher (an ex pupil teacher). Later his parents lived at 137 Saint Peter's Street, Lowestoft. By 1910 Harry had moved to London. He became a member of the London Institute of Music and was also a member of the London Oratorio Concert Association. Many newspapers reports from 1910 to 1915 tell of Harry's appearances at various concerts in the London area. In 1912, at a concert for the Edmonton P.S.A. Harry sang "At Last" and "The King of Love" - the latter piece being encored. In March 1915 he sang at a concert at Ealing County Council School and 'he sang with all his accustomed skill and feeling - "The Floral Dance", "Santa Barbara", and, finest of all "Friend" (see the Middlesex County Times 4 March 1915). He was also described as 'the popular Alexandra Palace tenor.'    By 1911 Harry was living at 104 Palmers Road, New Southgate, and he worked as an elementary school teacher for Middlesex County Council. Harry married Ethel Vincent in early 1916. They lived at The Limes, Bowes Road, New Southgate, and later Ethel lived at 37, Limes Avenue, New Southgate, London.Harry enlisted in the Army at Harringay. He joined the London Regiment. He was posted to the 1/5th Battalion, service number 4302, and served in France from 29 August 1916 and would have joined the Battalion, in the field, by mid-September 1916. Harry served with B Company. The 1/5th Battalion arrived in the Laventie area on 15 January 1917. From 20 January they were at work in the trenches and they held two 'posts', one named Banetand the other Enfield. These posts were often the target for enemy shelling or activity. While we do not known, precisely, when Harry was wounded, evidence from the Battalion War Diary shows that it could only have been on 22 January, two men wounded; 23 January, three men wounded; or 24 January, when 14 men were wounded. An original Commonwealth War Graves Commission document suggest that Harry and Privates Simmonds and Seward actually died on 24 January and it is possible that Harry was wounded in the German attack on the front line posts on 24 January. Some of Harry's service records give his number as 302557. This was a number issued under the renumbering of the Territorial Force in 1917. Many other records show his original number, 4302. 

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Victor died on 12th of October 1916 at the age of 21. Victor was born at Kessingland in 1895, a son of William and Maria Tripp. He was baptised at Saint Edmund’s Church, Kessingland, on 21 July 1895, and his family lived at The Beach, Kessingland. In 1901 his family lived at Dambrook House, Church Road, Kessingland, and this was still their home in 1911 when Victor worked as a marine insurance clerk, connected with the fishing industry. Victor volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft in later September/early October 1914. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 1849, and served with the 6th (Cyclist) Battalion. Harry was posted to the 7th Battalion in France, with service number 43289.  The War Diary for the 7th Battalion has:10 October 1916Relieved 11th Middlesex in Bulls Runs, near Flers, four companies in front line.12 October 1916Attack to be made on Bayonet Trench and Luisenhoff Farm. Morning very quiet.5 a.m. Battalion lying in shell holes in front ready.10 a.m. Major Henty went forward to advance Battalion Headquarters in Grass Street to receive reports.2 p.m. Zero. Attack started. German barrage very intense. Battalion proceeded in four waves, each company with a platoon front.No definite report until 6 p.m. when Battalion was back in front line having failed to attain objective.B and D Companies gained objective, but were driven out by superior numbers.1st Essex on right gained objective but were unable to hold it, finally and they managed to keep part of it.Battalion withdrew to reserve in Flers Trench. Colonel Murphy, in history of the Suffolk Regiment, felt that the attack failed because the enemy wire had only partially been destroyed and that the British barrage was ineffective.All fifteen officers that went over the top became casualties: eleven killed and four wounded. Ninety two other ranks were killed and, in total, the Battalion had over 500 casualties.  Victor was killed in action on 12 October. He received a battlefield burial at map reference 57c.N.20.c.6.4. By mid-1920 he had been reburied at Bancourt.  

A Private with the 1st Battalion, William died on 26th of October 1917 at the age of 20. William was born at Blundeston in 1897, a son of James and Rosa Tripp. In 1901 his family lived at Lound Road, Blundeston. By 1911 they were living at Flixton and William was a gardener’s labourer. Later his parents lived at Pond Farm Cottage, Saint Olaves Road, Herringfleet.William attested for the Army, at Lowestoft, on 15 November 1915 and was placed on the Class B reserve. At the time he was living at Flixton Run, near Lowestoft, and working as a gardener. He was called up for active service on 28 March 1916 and joined The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment), service number G/11926. William was posted to the 12th (Reserve) Battalion on 29 March 1916. On 1 September 1916 William joined the 97th Training Reserve Battalion, service number TR10/32280.On 23 September 1916 William was transferred to The Queen’s Own (Royal West Kent Regiment), service number G/17492. He was posted to France and embarked on 24 September 1916 and joined an Infantry Base Depot. He was then posted to the 1st Battalion and joined them, in the field, on 5 October 1916. William served with A Company. On 24 October 1917 the 1st Battalion moved into front line positions near Bedford House, with A Company taking over the trenches in, and about, Stirling Castle. On 25 October C and A Companies moved to assembly positions near Stirling Castle. At 4 a.m. on 26 October Band D Companies moved back to allow a barrage to fall just in behind the front line trenches and the battalion formed up in assembly positions. Between 4.30 and 5.30 an enemy barrage of artillery and machine-gun fire caused some casualties. At zero hour, 5.40 a.m., D and B Companies advanced and A Company moved into the positions previously vacated by these companies. The battalion advanced. The two machine-guns that had gone forward with the front waves were blown up, but by 8 a.m. the first objective had been reached. Enemy pill boxes near the Menin Road had held up the advance on 7 Division and C Company was detailed to deal with these. By this time men of A and C Company were holding a line from Menin Road to Sherriabeke. About 5.15 p.m. the enemy counter-attacked at Gheluvelt and a S.O.S. signal went up and a counter-barrage followed, followed by a retaliatory bombardment. During the evening the positions were consolidated, and the battalion was relieved. The battalion’s casualties for 26 October were:Officers: two killed, nine wounded, one missingOther ranks: 335William was killed in action on 26 October.   

A Chief Officer with S.S. Bibury (London), John died on 2nd of September 1940 aged 42.John was born at Lowestoft on 1 January 1898, a son of Cecil and Ellen Trollope. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 28 January 1898 and his family lived at 97 Queens Road. By 1901 they were living at 100 Beresford Road and in 1911 they lived at 66 Saint Margaret’s Road which was the family home until at least 1939. John was educated privately until 17 September 1907 when he joined the Lowestoft School of Science.  On 17 September 1913 John began a Merchant Navy apprenticeship and served on the S.S. Stagpool until 17 August 1917. On 5 December 1917 he joined the S.S. North Point as Third Mate and was promoted to Second Mate on 14 July 1918. He served with the North Point until 14 September 1919. John received his certificate of competency as a Second Mate on 14 May 1920. He served with S.S. Stagpool from 18 October 1921 to 8 December 1922. John was awarded his certificate of competency as a First Mate on 30 April 1923. From 26 November 1923 to 13 October 1924 he served on the S.S. Clearton and from 6 November 1925 to 19 June 1926 on the S.S. Islemoor. He was awarded his certificate of competency as a Master, this making him a Master Mariner, on 7 December 1926. On 7 January 1927 he joined the S.S. Zurichmoor. In 1928 John married Leah Jane Edwards, this was registered in the Cardiff district. In 1931 their home was at 3 Hilda Street, Barry, and by 1940 at Corton, Claude Road West, Barry.John served with S.S. Orangemoor from 30 March 1928 and with the S.S. Pearlmoor, as Chief Officer, from 20 September 1929. He joined the S.S. Fernmoor on 15 January 1936. In July 1939 he was the Master of the S.S. Vinemoor and, by September 1940, John was the Chief Officer of S.S. Bibury. On 2 September 1940 the Bibury was sailing in the Atlantic Ocean to the north-west of Ireland and was sunk by German submarine U-46. All 39 of the crew, including John, were lost. 

A Gunner II with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Roy died on 24th of September 1947 aged 22. Roy was born at Lowestoft in 1924, a son of Osgood Robert and Bella Trundle. His family lived at 50 Stanford Street and subsequently moved to 49 London Road South.Roy joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve after October 1942. By September 1947 he was an Air Gunner serving with 97 Squadron.On 24 September he was a member of the crew of a Lincoln B Mark 2 aircraft, number RE373, that flew from Hemswell, Lincolnshire. Roy’s was killed when his aircraft broke up and crashed at Mautby near Coltishall. It is thought that control of the aircraft was lost while flying in heavy cu-nim cloud. All nine crew were killed and are commemorated on a memorial at Saint Peter and Paul Church, Mautby. WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Civilian, Leonard died on 22nd of April 1941 aged 29. Leonard was born at Bradwell on 8 March 1911, a son of William and Elizabeth Tubby. In 1921 his family lived at 15 Norman Lane, Great Yarmouth. Later his parents lived at 169 Clapham Road, Lowestoft. In 1935 Leonard married Lilian Alice Doris Clarke, formerly Goldspink. In 1939 Leonard and Lilian lived at Up Yonder, Walmer Road, and Leonard was a haulage contractor on his ‘own account’. On 22 April 1941 an enemy aircraft dropped a bomb at the corner of Walmer Road and Acton Road. Leonard was killed in the explosion. 

A Skipper with H.M. Armed Fishing Smack Ivanhoe, John died on 9th of January 1919 at the age of 46. John was born at Lowestoft on 11 February 1872, a son of John James and Anne Tucker. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 4 September 1881 and his family lived at 2 Mill Road. By 1891 they were living at 6 Waveney Terrace, Whapload Road. Later his parents lived at 92 Clapham Road.On 16 March 1896 John married Jane Hurn at Saint Margaret’s Church. John was a trawler man of 6 Waveney Terrace and Jane lived at 23 Anguish Street. By 1901 their home was at 212 Raglan Street. In 1901 John was the Skipper of the trawler Sam J. Dobson, LT 634 at Milford Haven. Jane died in 1905.  In April 1906 John was sued by James Blowers, of Lowestoft, over an incident in which Blowers was injured. The judge found against John, who was the Skipper and owner of the trawler John Brown, and he was ordered to pay Blowers six month’s wages, as well as paying £5 expenses and being fined £44 and costs (see Norfolk Chronicle 28 April 1906, page 6). John married Mary Ann Morris at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 28 October 1906. John and Mary moved to Padstow, where John had business interests, and owned fishing smacks, and they had a home at 9 Glen Road, Padstow. In 1911 John was the Master of the trawler Trevoni at Padstow. In 1918 John joined the St. Petroc Lodge of Freemasons. During the First World War John agreed to serve with government vessel under a T.124 agreement, technically this meant he was part of the Mercantile Marine Reserve. In this role he served as the Master of the Ivanhoe, and armed fishing smack. The following notice, that explains what happened to John, appeared in the Guardian, 24 January 1919, page 7:FEARED LOSS OF PADSTOW FISHING SMACKGreat anxiety was felt at Padstow when it became known that the armed motor fishing boat “Ivanhoe” had failed to return from the fishing grounds. The vessel left the port on Wednesday morning, the 8th, and was last seen in the heavy gale on Thursday, 9th, by the skipper of the “Hepetica”. It is feared that she was swamped by the heavy seas and all the hands lost. The Skipper (Mr. J. Tucker) was very popular at Padstow, and was considered one of the best fishermen out of the port. Great sympathy will be extended to his widow and aged father, and also to the relatives of the following who comprised the crew: Messrs. Robinson, who leaves a widow and two little children, Goldring (sic), Brown and the gunner.     John's brother-in-law, Walter Day, served in the Royal Naval Reserve and died in 1917. His nephew, Thomas Claxton, died in 1918 in the loss of the trawler Boy Jack.  

A Private with 9th Bn., Charles died on 9th of April 1917 at the age of 22. Charles was born at Lowestoft in 1895, a son of Minnie Florence Pearce. In 1901 his family lived at 210 Raglan Street, Lowestoft. In 1902 his mother married Walter Edgar Tuddenham and his family lived at 6 Oxford Road, Lowestoft.Charles volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Norwich. He gave his first name as Oswald, hence all military records list him with Oswald as his first name. He joined the Royal Fusiliers, service number PS/7094, and served with the 21st Battalion and arrived in France with that battalion on 14 November 1915.The 21st Battalion Royal Fusiliers was one of four 'Public Schools' battalions of the Royal Fusiliers and was also known as the 2nd Sportsman's Battalion. The Battalion was intended for upper and middle class men who were known for their sporting interests. On 20 March 1916 Charles returned to England (reason unknown). He was posted to the 1st Battalion, service number G/49334, and served in France from 29 November 1916. On 28 December 1916 he was posted to the 9th Battalion.On 9 April 1917 the 9th Battalion were involved in an attack from south of Arras to north of Vimy Ridge. Their objectives were a line from points through Houdain Lane to Habarq Trench; Habarq Trench, and Hulst Trench. All objectives were taken and 220 prisoners and 2 machine-guns. Casualties were one officer killed and three wounded and 117 other ranks. Charles was killed in action on 9 April. He received a battlefield burial at map reference H.25.C.43 and in 1919 was exhumed and reburied at Feuchy Chapel.Miss Katherine M. Stewart, of 82 Leamington Terrace, Edinburgh, contacted the Red Cross to enquire about Charles. 

A Sergeant with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Bertie died on 21st of January 1944 aged 26.Bertie was born at Lound in 1918, a son of Henry and Anne Estella Turner. In 1921 his family lived at Yarmouth Road, Corton. In 1939 Bertie’s parents lived at Woodlands Cottages, Yarmouth Road, Corton.In 1936 Bertie married Agnes Mabel Vale, this was registered in the Lothingland district. In 1939 Agnes lived with her parents at 22 Trafalgar Street. Bertie was an Air Gunner and by January 1944 he was serving with 463 (Royal Australian Air Force) Squadron based at Waddington, Lincolnshire.Bertie was a member of the crew of a Lancaster III bomber, number DV274 which flew on a raid to Berlin. Upon returning to England, it was realised that Bertie had died from lack of oxygen due to a faulty oxygen system in the aircraft.  WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Private with 9th Bn., David died on 25th of September 1915 at the age of 20. David was born at South Burlingham in 1895, a son of Charles Roy and Alice Turner. In 1901 his family lived 'By Town Pits', South Burlingham. By 1911 they had moved to Kemp's Heath, Oulton, and David worked as a farm labourer. At some point his parents moved to 8 Meadow Cottages, Oulton, Lowestoft.David volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. he joined the Suffolk Regiment and arrived in France with the 9th Battalion on 31 August 1915. Colonel Murphy’s ‘The History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927’ has the following account of the 9th Battalion’s involvement in the Battle of Loos from 25 to 27 September 1915, pages 121-122:At 8 p.m. on 25 September the 9th Battalion moved off and began to wend its way, in a double line of platoons, across the battlefield of Loos. A steady advance – not towards the 9th Division as originally intended, but in the direction of Vendin-le-Vieil – was maintained, the battalion passing in turn over its own support line, its own front line, the German front line, and the German support line. About midnight the advance was held up, the battalion digging themselves in between that hour and dawn, with the German support line still behind them. At 5 a.m. they were ordered back to that line.During the forenoon of the 26th an order was received for an attack at 11 a.m. with the 9th Battalion to support the 72nd Brigade, following some 600 yards behind. Unfortunately, however, this order was not received until 11.25 a.m., whereupon Lieutenant-Colonel, passing a message down the line, ordered the battalion to advance immediately. Without hesitation each section mounted the parapet and began pushing forward under heavy artillery fire towards the objective of the previous evening. The advance continued until the leading line reached a point about two hundred yards or so beyond the Hulluch-Lens Road where it was definitely checked. At 5 p.m. the right flank began to give way. For three hours the centre held on to the road, and during that time the flanks advanced and retired twice. Then the left flank, coming under a heavy machine-gun fire from the direction of Hulluch, was forced back. Here most of the 9th Battalion’s casualties occurred.About 2 a.m. on the 27th the battalion was relieved.The Battalion’s casualties were: Officers, one killed, six woundedOther ranks, nine killed, two died of wounds, 81 wounded, 45 missingNote that Commonwealth War Graves records show that David died on 25 September 1915. However other records, such as the Army Register of Soldiers' Effects, state that he died 'on or since' 2nd October 1915. In fact all of the Battalion's fatal casualties at the Battle of Loos, including those known to be missing, were listed as having been killed in action on 25 September 1915.   

A Flight Sergeant with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Delbert died on 18th of September 1945 aged 20. Delbert was born at Lowestoft in 1924, a son of George Frederick and Gladys Turner. In 1939 his family lived at 33 Edinburgh Road. Delbert enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve after October 1942. By September 1945 Delbert was a Flight Engineer serving with 466 (Royal Australian Air Force) Squadron, based at Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire. On 18 September he was a member of the crew of a Liberator GR VIII aircraft, number KN736, on a training flight. The pilot feathered the engines at 1,000 feet, which was below the safety height. The engines were restarted but there was not sufficient time to reach power, and the aircraft crashed at Cockayne Hatley, Bedfordshire. Four of the crew survived.   WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Lieutenant with the 3rd Australian Field Artillery Brigade, Felix died on 18th of September 1918 aged 39. Felix was born at Kingston-on-Thames, Surrey, on 6 October 1878, a son of Felix Percy and Helena Turner. He was baptised at All Saints’ Church, Kingston, on 21 January 1883, and his family lived at Surbiton. In 1891 they lived at 31 Victoria Terrace, Surbiton, and this was still their home in 1901 when Victoria Terrace was known as Victoria Road. In 1901 Felix was a watchmaker’s assistant, probably working with his father. By 1903 Felix had emigrated to Australia and he was a stockman living at Ambry Downs, Maranoa, Queensland. By 1915 his father was living at 3 Bruce Street, Lowestoft.  Felix was working as a station manager when he volunteered and enlisted in the Australian Army at Roma, Queensland, on 16 February 1915. He joined the 6th Reinforcements of the 3rd Australian Field Artillery Brigade, service number 4479. He arrived at Egypt on 1 May 1915 and embarked at Alexandria, for Gallipoli on 1 August 1915, and was taken on strength on 12 August. Felix was seriously wounded on 28 September and evacuated to Egypt, being admitted to 21 General Hospital, Alexandria, on 4 October. He was discharged to duty on 7 December, rejoining his unit on 9 December. His unit moved to France in March 1916.Felix was promoted Temporary Bombardier on 1 July 1916 and confirmed in that rank on 27 August. On 9 September he was recommended for the award of the Military Medal, but this was not carried forward. He was recommended for the award again on 11 March 1917 (London Gazette 11 May 1917). He had been involved, with three other men, in a particular incident. His award, dated 28 March, has the following commendation:For bravery and devotion to duty. By their prompt and gallant conduct in connection with the attached incident these N.C.O.s rendered most valuable and timely service and set a splendid example to all ranks of their battery.  On 12 April 1917 Felix was transferred to the Artillery Officer Cadet School, Saint John’s Wood, London. He was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant on 29 September and posted to the Field Artillery Reinforcements, arriving in France on 16 October, joining the 3rd Australian Field Artillery on 21 October. He was promoted Lieutenant on 29 December 1917. In February 1918 he was attached to an Australian Veterinary Hospital. Felix had leave to England from 18 August to 4 September 1918. Felix was killed, almost instantaneously, by shell fire on the morning of 18 September while supervising his section. He was buried by Reverend Bond, with military honours, near Tincourt at 2 p.m. on 20 September.     

A Flying Officer with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, John died on 23rd of January 1945 aged 23. John was born at Lowestoft on 8 May 1921, a son of John Pater Turner and Hilda Beatrice Turner. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley, on 4 June 1921, and his grandparents, Alfred J. and Elizabeth M. Turner, lived at Walmer House, London Road South. John, and his parents, lived at 73 Saint George’s Road, Newbury, Berkshire, in 1921, and by 1939 their home was at 32 Howard Road, Newbury, and John was a first year medical student. John joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve after August 1940, service number 1393109. He was commissioned as a Pilot Officer on 7 February 1944, service number 175060, and Flying Officer on 7 August 1944. In January 1945 he was a Navigator/Bomber serving with 69 Squadron based at B 58 Melsbroek, Belgium. On 23 January he was a member of the crew of a Wellington XIII bomber, number NC607, flying on a sortie to Maasniel-Krutchen. The aircraft crashed and only two of the crew survived and these were captured. WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Private with the 9th Battalion, Samuel died on 20th of November 1917 at the age of 37. Samuel was born at Pakefield on 6 January 1880, a son of Robert and Susannah (Annie) Turner.  In 1881 his family lived at Pakefield Street, Kirkley. From 15 March 1887 Samuel attended Cunningham Infants School. He then Kirkley Boys School, and, between 15 December 1891 and 6 September 1892 was a pupil at Cunnigham Mixed School. In 1891 his family lived at 24 Pakefield Street, Kirkley, and by 1901 at Beach Street, Carlton Colville, and Samuel was a mariner.  On 19 July 1902 Samuel married Catherine Louisa Beck at Saint Peter’s Church, Kirkley. Samuel was a fisherman and they both lived at Kirkley. By 1911 their home was at 2 A, Christie House, Rock Estate, Oulton Broad. In 1911 Samuel was the fourth hand on the trawler Benefactor LT 155 at Lowestoft.On 1919 Catherine married William Day and they lived at 22 Factory Street.Samuel volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 16229. He joined the 9th Battalion and arrived in France with his battalion on 30 August 1915.On 19 November 1917 the 9th Battalion moved into assembly positions in readiness for an attack, with tanks, on the Hindenburg Line, north of Beauchamp, to be made the next day. Early on the 20th the battalion formed up ‘in tank formation’ immediately to the rear of the two tanks sections working with them. The tanks were to the rear of the British support line between Argyle Road and Barricade Road. Assembly was completed by 1 a.m. and the men slept in their positions. The tanks and the men moved forward at 6.10 a.m. and the supporting barrage commenced at 6.20 a.m. The men moved with the tanks, through the British wire and within 200 yards of Plush Trench. Soon afterwards two tanks were put out of action, and other lost direction. D Company was able to pass through the Hindenburg Line wire. The enemy’s retaliatory barrage was weak, but concentrated and a portion of D Company was caught in this fire and sustained several casualties. A Company dealt with Plush Trench and the rest of the battalion, and the remaining tanks, passed through to attack the main Hindenburg Line. At 9.05 a.m. it was reported that the battalion’s objective had been captured and that the enemy resistance had been feeble and casualties’ light. Half of C Company then moved with the tanks toward Marcoing. They were joined by other elements of the battalion and attacked Marcoing where the enemy offered little resistance. The elements of the battalion that had moved forward to Marcoing rejoined the rest of the battalion, in the Hindenburg Line front system, about 3.50 p.m. During the day the battalion had captured about 150 prisoners, including three officers, and captured three machine guns. The battalion’s casualties were:Officers: three woundedOther ranks: 8 killed, 56 woundedSamuel was killed in action on 20 November. Samuel’s brother-in-law, Samuel Martin, died in the loss of the trawler Labrador in 1915.

A Rifleman with 2/17th Bn., William died on 7th of August 1916 at the age of 22. William was born at Lowestoft in 1893, a son of William and Eliza Turner. In 1901 his family lived at 23 Chapel Street, Lowestoft. By 1911 they were living at 3 Barrett's Yard, High Street, Lowestoft, and William was a fish worker in the herring fishing business. William enlisted in the Army at Saxmundham. Initially he joined the 6th (Cyclist) Battalion Suffolk Regiment, service number 4194. William was transferred to the London Regiment and he arrived in France on 24 June 1916 to join the 2/17th Battalion. On 3 August 1916 the Battalion took up positions in trenches near Neuville St. Vaast. The Battalion War Diary for 7 August 1916 has:Quiet day in trenches. Our patrols were again active during the night and secured useful information. Our snipers claimed two hits. Usual activity with trench mortars, 'oil cans', 'fears', and rifle grenades.The War Diary does not mention any casualties on 7 August, but both William, and Charles Kent, also from Lowestoft, were both killed in action that day. Both William and Charles had served in the 6th Battalion Suffolk Regiment and they both joined the 2/17th Battalion on 24 June 1916. A brief note in the East Anglian Daily Times, 21 August 1916, page 6, states that William was 'killed by a shell, together with his chum, Charles Kent.'William and Charles are buried next to each other at Ecoivres Military Cemetery. See house on LowestoftOldAndNow.org 

A Deck Hand with H.M. Drifter John Mitchell, Charles died on 8th of February 1915 at the age of 16.Charles was born at Oulton Broad on 1 May 1898, a son of George and Jane Turrell. In 1901 his family lived at 33 Victoria Road, Carlton Colville. By 1911 they were living at 3 Lavinia Terrace, Commodore Road, Oulton Broad, and later their address was 112 Commodore Road.Charles joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 6 February 1915 and served on the drifter John Mitchell. About 9.30 p.m. on Monday 8 February 1915 Charles went ashore, from the drifter John Mitchell, to collect letters. There were three other drifters moored at the quay and to get ashore Charles would have to cross the other boats. Charles expected to return within 20 minutes and when he did not two men went from the John Mitchell to find him. Meanwhile the master of the drifter Condor, tied up closest to the quay, heard a splash near the ladder from his drifter to the quay, but no other sound was heard. He obtained a flare-light and went to look over the side of the drifter, but saw nothing. After searching for a bout a quarter of an hour Charles' body was found at the bottom of the Wellington Dock. He had a broken neck and an inquiry concluded that he must have fallen and struck his head, dying instantly. A verdict of misadventure was returned. (See: Dover Express newspaper 12 February 1915, page 3)Co-incidentally, in December 1912 Charles had fallen overboard in Lowestoft docks. Charles became exhausted and could not reach a lifebuoy thrown to him. another lad, Jack Law, jumped overboard and rescued Charles. Jack Law was awarded the Royal Humane Society Bronze Medal, and Certificate, for saving Charles' life. (See East Anglian Daily Times 9 April 1913, page 5).

A Corporal with 10th Bn., Charles died on 1st of July 1916 at the age of 22. Charles was born at Lowestoft in 1893, a son of William and Maria Turrell. In 1901 his family lived at Seaview Cottages, East Street, Lowestoft. By 1911 the family were living at 29 East Street, Lowestoft.Charles volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Essex Regiment and was posted to the 10th Battalion. He arrived in France, with the Battalion, on 25 July 1915.  On the night of 30 June 1916 most of the Battalion were in the trenches of the Carnoy defences. At 7.30 a.m. on 1 July they went into the attack: 645 men as well as Lewis gun teams. They advanced in support of the 8th Battalion Norfolk Regiment and the 6th Royal Berkshire Regiment and during the day various elements of the Battalion were sent to support these battalions at different points, including the Pommier Line. Between 24 June and 7 July the Battalion lost 31 officers and men killed, and 167 wounded.  

A Seaman with H.M. Trawler Lord Stamp. Clement died on 14th of October 1940 at the age of 22. Son of Herbert and Annie Turrell of Lowestoft Suffolk. Clement was born at Lowestoft on 18 July 1918. Clement's father died in September 1918 while serving with the Royal Naval Reserve. In 1921 Clement's family lived at 2 Bungalow, Hulver Road, Mutford. By 1939 his mother was living at 9 Clemence Street, Lowestoft. During the 1930s Clement worked as a merchant seaman and was, for a time, based at North Shields. He married Margaret B. Ellis in 1937, their marriage was registered in the Tynemouth district. By 1939 they were living at Craven Farm, Brampton, and Clement worked as a fisherman. Clement served on the mine-sweeping trawler Lord Stamp. On 14 October 1940 the Lord Stamp struck a mine and sank in the English Channel with the loss of 25 crew including Clement.

A Private with 7th Bn., Edward died on 3rd of July 1916 at the age of 36.  Edward was born at Lowestoft in 1879, a son of Edward G. and Martha Turrell. In 1881 his family lived at Rose Cottage, Clapham Road, Lowestoft. By 1891 they were living at 65 Seago Street. Edward's father died before 1901. In his family were still living at 65 Seago Street and Edward was a building contractor's labourer. Later his mother lived at 77 Rotterdam Road before moving to 15 Essex Road. In 1911 Edward was a boarder living at 107 Wollaston Road, Lowestoft, and he worked as a general labourer. Edward enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment and was posted to the 7th Battalion in France. On 3 July 1916 the 7th Battalion made a frontal attack at Ovillers. At ten minutes before zero hour (3.15 p.m.) the Battalion advanced in eight waves behind the bombardment. The first four waves reached the German third line but due to darkness and lack of support the Germans were able to get in between waves at the third line position. It was at this point that the Battalion sustained most casualties and the attack came to a standstill. The Battalion lost 21 officers and 458 men killed, wounded or missing.Edward was reported to be missing on 3 July and by January 1917 presumed to have been killed in action on that date.  

A Private with the 10th Battalion, Ernest died on 14th of June 1917 at the age of 36. Ernest was born at Kessingland in 1881, a son of Harriet Turrell. In 1891 Ernest lived with his mother at The Street, Kessingland. Later his mother married George Winyard and lived at 4 Oaklands Terrace, London Road, Kessingland. In 1908 Ernest married Agnes Mary Bentley: their married was registered in the Royston district. By 1911 they were living at 51 Meeson Road, Stratford, London, and Ernest worked as a drapery packer and a drapery warehouse.Later they moved to Wilton, Ross-on-Wye and after Ernest's death Agnes lived at Corner House, Wilton.Ernest enlisted in the Army at Builth Wells. He joined the Monmouthshire Regiment, number 4623. He served with the Monmouthshire Regiment in France and then, after time at an Infantry Base Depot, he was transferred to the 10th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers, service number 55085.On the night of 12-13 June 1917 the 10th Battalion took over trenches at the Brown Line, Monchy, near Arras. The battalion war diary states that on 14 June the 76th Brigade, including the 10th Battalion, 'attack and take their objective, in spite of very obstinate resistance from the enemy.'One officer was wounded and eleven men, including Ernest, were killed in the attack. 

A Deck Hand with H.M. Drifter Lichen, Herbert died on 3rd of September 1918 at the age of 28. Herbert was, according to the 1891 and 1901 Censuses, born at Henstead (though one sources states Carlton Colville) on 29 January 1890, a son of Arthur and Elizabeth Turrell. In 1891 his family lied at Hulver Street, Henstead, and in 1901 they lived at Ladds Cottages, Carlton Colville. By 1911 they were living at Wood Cottage, Mutford.  On 9 February 1915 Herbert married Annie Minister at Saint Peter's Church, Carlton Colville. Herbert was living in Saint Margaret's parish and working as a police constable. Annie was living at Carlton Colville. They lived at 25 Sussex Road, Lowestoft. Herbert joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 2 June 1917. Herbert was serving on the drifter Lichen when, on 3 September 1918, an accidental internal explosion took place and he was killed. Subsequently Annie lived at Hill Farm, Mutford.Herbert's son Clement died in 1940 while serving with the Royal Naval Patrol Service.

A Second Hand with H.M. Trawler Robert Bowen. Olley died on 9th of February 1940 at the age of 30.Olley was born at Kirkley on 12 November 1909, a son of Alfred and Harriet Ann Turrell. In 1911 his family lived at 1 Wheatacre Terrace, London Road South. By 1921 his family were living at 27 Clapham Road.  On 2 January 1937 Olley married Ruth Priscilla Woods at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Both Olley and Ruth were living at 56 Sussex Road. Olley was a fisherman and Ruth a factory worker. By 1939 their home was at 3 Ashley Downs, Lowestoft. Olley was serving with the minesweeping trawler Robert Bowen when it was sunk by German aircraft off Aberdeen, Scotland. Fourteen crew, including Olley, were killed.  

Formerly a Seaman with the Royal Naval Reserve, Pelham died on 15th of November 1918 at the age of 25.Pelham was born at Kessingland on 9 July 1893, a son of Henry and Sarah Ann Turrell. He was baptised at Saint Edmund's Church, Kessingland, on 21 April 1901. In 1901 his family lived at The Beach, Kessingland, and by 1911 they were living at Hadleigh Cottages, London Road, Kessingland, and Pelham worked as a fisherman. Later his family lived at Russell Cottages, Kessingland.Pelham joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 17 December 1914. From 26 March to 31 December 1915 Pelham served with the cruiser H.M.S. Comus. He was sent to the Hospital Ship China and found to be suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis. He was sent then transferred to the Royal Naval Hospital Haslar before being invalided on 3 March 1916. His condition was attributable to his war service. Pelham was buried at Saint Edmund's Churchyard, Kessingland, on 20 November 1918. 

A Mate with Steam Trawler Newhaven (Lowestoft), Walter died on 15th of January 1940 at the age of 41. Walter was born at Lowestoft on 17 August 1898, a son of James Albert Garner and Alice Maria Turrell. He was baptised at Christ Church, Lowestoft, on 7 September 1898 and his family lived at 6 Wildes Score. By 1911 his family were living at 1 Wildes Street, The Beach, Lowestoft. Walter joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 14 September 1915, number 8643 DA. He served on the trawler Girl Grace until 15 January 1917 when he joined the Admirable. On 15 May 1917 the Austro-Hungarian Navy tried to break the drifter barrage across the Straight of Otranto. They attacked with the intention of sinking as many drifters as possible. The event became known as The Battle of the Strait of Otranto. Walter was taken prisoner during the battle and by August 1917 was being held at a prisoner of war camp in Austria. He was released and arrived at Taranto, Italy, on 17 November 1918. Walter was demobilized on 22 January 1919.  On 21 October 1926 Walter married Grace Laura Spurgeon at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Walter was a fisherman and they both lived at 29 Queens Road. By 1939 their home was at 5 Ship Road, Pakefield, Lowestoft, Suffolk.The Newhaven was supposed to have been lost, around 18 miles south south-east of Lowestoft, due to a mine explosion.  

A Cook with the trawler Fleurette (Lowestoft), William died on the 13th February 1917, aged 15.William was born at Lowestoft in 1902, a son of George and Jane Turrell. In 1911 his family lived at 3 Parkholme Terrace, High Street. During the First World War William was the Cook on the trawler Fleurette, LT 312. On 13 February 1917, in rough weather, the Fleurette was stopped by German submarine U-47. The crew were forced to take to their dingy as the submarine intended to sink the trawler. The bad weather prevented the submarine from sinking the Fleurette which eventually came ashore unmanned and none of the five crew were never seen again. 

A Lance Corporal with the 6th Battalion, James died on 4th of July 1918 at the age of 34. According to some sources James was born at Limerick, Ireland, however the various census returns, from 1891 to 1911, state that he was born at Carlton Colville. Commonwealth War Graves records state that he was the son of Rosanna and the late Charles Tuthill of Carlton, Saxmundham, however all census records show his father's name as Samuel.On 2 July 1905 James married Daisy Edith Whitwood at Saint Peter's Church, Kirkley. James was a labourer and they both stated that they were living at 90 Carlton Road, Kirkley. No other details of Daisy are known. In 1911 James lived with his widowed mother, and siblings, at 90 Carlton Road, and James worked as a bricklayer's labourer.Pension and probate records show Annie Maria Mitchell, of 80 Carlton Road, Kirkley, as James' unmarried wife and guardian of children. James enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He serving with The Buffs (East Kent Regiment), number 11230, before being transferred to The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment) and joining the 6th Battalion. In late June 1918 and early July 1918 the 6th Battalion were involved in operations in the vicinity of Bouzincourt. Details of when, or how, James was wounded are not known, but it is likely that he was wounded in the Bouzincourt operations. James died of his wounds and is buried in an area that was known to the base for several Casualty Clearing Stations. 

A Private with the 11th Battalion, Henry died on 9th of April 1918 at the age of 24. Henry was born at Bradfield, Norfolk, on 21 May 1893, a son of James and Alice Ellen Tuttle. In 1901 his family lived at Toftwood, East Dereham. On 24 February 1902 Henry became a pupil at Cunningham School and his family lived at 9 Nelson Terrace, Pakefield, then on 6 January 1903 he joined Saint Margaret’s School, and his family lived at 1 Cathcart Street. In 1911 their home was at White House, near the School, Oulton, and Henry worked at an iron foundry. Later his mother lived at 1 Sunshine Terrace, Oulton Broad. Henry volunteered and in autumn 1914 he enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 13937, and was posted to the 8th Battalion 8th Battalion, arriving in France with the battalion on 25 July 1915. Henry received a gunshot wound to his head in late October 1916 and his name appears in the official casualty list, the War Office Daily List, of 21 December 1916. Subsequently he was posted to the 9th Battalion and, when that battalion was disbanded in February 1918, he was posted to the 11th Battalion and joined the Headquarters Company. On 5 April 1918 the 11th Battalion occupied billets at Erquinghem, France. The Germans began bombing Erquignhem on 9 April and the battalion immediately moved into front line trenches in anticipation of an attack which came from the direction of Fleurbaux, but was driven back. A second attack from the Feurbaix area took place on 10 April and later that day the battalion were ordered to withdraw to north of the River Lys. A further withdrawal on the 11th was hampered by sniper and machine-gun fire but the battalion reached the Armentieres-Bailleul railway. On the 12th the battalion moved into attack formation about one mile south-east of Bailleul and late in the morning became involved in the fighting. The next day there was a heavy artillery bombardment and the enemy attacked in force from Outerstern and the battalion had to fall back. During the 14th the battalion took up positions near Bailleul railway station and late in the day they were relieved and marched to Meulehook. On the 15th due to enemy advances they were again in the front line. The next day they were patrolling and digging in. During the 17th there was heavy shelling and attempts by the enemy to advance. The battalion were relieved at 2 a.m. on April 18. What precisely happened to Henry is not known. He was reported missing at some point between 9 April and 19 April 1918 and in October 1918 was presumed to have been killed in action between those dates. However both Soldiers Died in the Great War and medal records give his date of death as 18 April. The battalion’s casualties between 9 and 19 April were:Officers: four killed; four died of wounds; five missing, ten woundedOther ranks: 39 killed; three died of wounds; 272 missing; 157 wounded

A Private with the 4th Battalion, Thomas died on 18th of November 1943 aged 27. Thomas was born at Lowestoft, on 6 April 1916, a son of Thomas Charles and Ethel Tuttle. He was baptised at Saint Margarets Church, Lowestoft, on 27 April 1916, and his family lived at 66 Tennyson Road. By August 1916 his family were living at 26 White Hart Street, and this was still their home in 1921. Thomas’ father died in 1933 and by 1939 the family home was at 47 Mariners Street. Thomas was working as a baker when he joined the Suffolk Regiment and served with the 4th Battalion.In autumn 1939 the 4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment, part of 54 Brigade in the 18th (East Anglian) Division, was on guard duty in the Lowestoft area and from July to September 1940 had various local deployments, including guarding Great Yarmouth. The Battalion then moved to Bedfordshire and then Scotland until April 1941. Next the Battalion moved to Bury, Lancashire, and Hereford, before embarking on the S.S. Andes at Liverpool and sailing for Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Battalion changed ship, to the American liner Wakefield, and sailed for Trinidad and then Cape Town, arriving on 9 December 1941. The Battalion was given three days shore leave.With the Japanese entry into the war the Battalion was now allocated to the Far East and sailed for India, arriving on 5 January 1942. The Battalion had three weeks of training before embarking at Bombay and sailing for Singapore, arriving on 29 January 1942. The Battalion had orders to defend the Golf Course and then fell back to defend the perimeter before the Singapore garrison was forced to surrender on 15 February 1942. Ninety men of the Battalion were killed, or died of wounds, in the defence of Singapore and 865 were taken prisoner.      Thomas was taken prisoner at Singapore. On 27 April 1943 he was part of a group of men taken overland to work on the Burma Railway. In November 1943 he was at a camp at Kami Sonkari. Thomas developed beriberi and died. He was buried at Kami Sonkari and reburied at Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery in 1946.  

A Skipper with the trawler Speculator. William died on 9 November 1914 at the age of 56.William was born at Lowestoft on 2 November 1858, a son of John and Mary Ann Tuttle. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft, on 5 December 1858. In 1861 his family lived at 9 Eastern Square, Lowestoft. By 1871 they were living at 34 Clemence Street.  On 20 May 1878 William married Alice Burcham at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft. William was a fisherman living at 34 Clemence Street and Alice lived at 28 Stevens Street. In 1881 they lived at 28 Stevens Street and by 1891 at 84 Stanford Street and William was a fisherman. In 1901 they were living at 66 Stanford Street and William was a smacksman. By 1911 their home was at 66 Lorne Park Road.The trawler Speculator, LT 1050, was last seen between 4 and 5 p.m. on 9 November 1914 fishing in the Yarmouth field near Smith's Knoll. The Skipper of the trawler Achieve reported that he heard an explosion around 8 p.m. that evening and it was presumed that this was the sound of the Speculator being blown up by a mine. The next day wreckage from the Speculator was found. See: World War One – History of Lowestoft's Fishing Industry (wordpress.com)

A Master with Trinity House Vessel Alert (London), William died on 6th of March 1945 at the age of 61.William was born at Lowestoft on 24 December 1883, a son of Harry and Ann Elizabeth Tuttle.William attended Christchurch School and, on 17 February 1890, became a pupil at Saint Margaret’s School, and his family lived at 2 White Horse Street. In 1891 his family lived at 18 Wrayburn Street, West Derby, Liverpool. By 1901 they had returned to Lowestoft, and lived at 22 Factory Street, and William was a seaman. In 1904 William lived at 172 Stafford Road, Southtown, Great Yarmouth, and this was his home for the rest of his life. In 1906 William married Ethel May Stone: this was registered in the Mutford district. William joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 1 July 1904 and he continued to serve until 1924. He was called out for service on 3 August 1914 and served on Defensively Armed Merchant Ships throughout World War One. He was demobilised on 14 February 1919.From September 1919 to January 1921, he was a Fog Signal Driver in the Dredger Lightship at Great Yarmouth. From January 1921 to July 1921, he was a Fog Signal Driver in the Dudgeon Lightship at Great Yarmouth. From July 1921 to January 1924, he was a Lamplighter with the Swarte Bank Light Vessel at Great Yarmouth. In January 1924 he joined the Trinity Service.   In 1939 William was a Master of a Lightship with the Trinity Light House Service. William died at Hellesdon Hospital, Norwich, on 6 March 1945. William’s brother-in-law, Thomas Cropley, served in the Royal Naval Reserve and died in 1917.  

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Albert died on 18th of July 1944 aged 24. Albert was born at West Hartlepool on 14 December 1919, a son of Frederick G. and Hannah Tweedy. In 1921 his family lived at 34 Uppingham Street, West Hartlepool. By 1939 they were living at 108 Scarborough Street, West Hartlepool, and Albert was a van attendant at a general laundry. Later his mother lived at Saint Anne’s on Sea. In 1942 Albert married Sylvia Doreen Leech. This was registered in the Amounderness district. Sylvia came from Lowestoft. In 1939 she lived at 127 Rotterdam Road and later at 4 Wellington Cottages. Albert enlisted in The Royal Scots and was later transferred to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and served in France with the 7th Battalion. Before going to Normandy Albert had served in North Africa and Italy as part of the Eighth Army.The 7th Battalion landed at Normandy on 10 June 1944. For the next few weeks they were part of the divisional reserve holding positions near Caen. During those weeks the battalion was subjected to considerable enemy shell-fire. On 18 July the battalion were in the vicinity of Ranville and on that day, Ranville underwent German bombing raids. Albert was killed in action. 

A Sergeant with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, James died on 12th of June 1941 at the age of 24. James was born at Lowestoft on 25 November 1917, a son of James William and Mary Ann Tyrrell. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 6 January 1918 and his family lived at 1 Beresford Road. In 1921 his family lived at 1 Beresford Road. In 1939 they lived at 77 Love Road, and James was a solicitor’s clerk, but by the time of James’ death his family had returned to 1 Beresford Road.James enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve between September 1939 and August 1940. James was an Observer. On 12 June 1941 he was part of the crew of a Hampden 1, number P2111, of No 25 Operational Training Unit, flying out of Finningley, Yorkshire, on a navigation / bombing exercise. The aircraft was lost over the Bristol Channel. A letter to James’ family stated that it was unlikely that they would ever know the reason why the aircraft was lost.  WITH THANKS TO:Malcolm Barrass

A Corporal with Derby Depot, Charles died on 16th of January 1945 at the age of 38.Charles was born at Bramdean, Hampshire, on 9 October 1906, a son of Edward and Margret Underwood. He was baptised at Bramdean Parish Church on 14 October 1906 and his family live at Bramdean Common. In 1911 his family lived at West Meon, near Petersfield, and by 1921 they were living at Whitewood Cottages, Herriard, and Charles worked as a garden boy at Herriard Park. Charles married Annie Elizabeth Scarff in 1926, this was registered in the Alton district. Annie was born at Lowestoft.In 1939 Charles and Annie were living at Cromwell Road, Caterham, Surrey, and Charles worked a a general labourer. By 1945 they were living at 8 Sparham's Buildings, Saint Peter's Street. Charles died by drowning in a septic water tank at the Derby Depot of the Pioneer Corps. Charles had been noted a being missing during the night of 15 January. His colleagues had heard feint calls for help, but dismissed them as 'someone fooling around'. An inquest into his death returned a verdict of death by misadventure. (See Nottingham Journal 7 March 1945 page 4). 

A Private with the 2nd Battalion, Charles died on 4th of July 1916 at the age of 22. Charles was born at Lowestoft on 12 November 1893, a son of William and Alice Upson. He attended Hervey Street Infant School and, from 27 August 1900, was a pupil at Saint John’s School, Lowestoft. In 1901 his family lived at 7 Clemence Street, Lowestoft. By 1906 they were living at 27 Stevens Street, Lowestoft, and later at 17 Stevens Street. In 1906 Charles was among a group of boys who ‘prowled about the streets, committing small depredations’ that ‘must be broken up.’ In November 1906 four of the boys, including Charles, were arrested and tried at Lowestoft Magistrate Court, accused of stealing a silver watch and chain. Charles, and two others, were found guilty and sentenced to five years at a reformatory school. The boys were removed form the court crying. See Lowestoft Journal 16 November 1906, page 3. Charles spent the next three years at Kerrison Reformatory School, Eye, Suffolk. Before joining the regular army Charles with the 2nd Volunteer Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Charles was working as a bricklayer’s labourer when he enlisted in the Norfolk Regiment at Norwich on 29 March 1910. He served with the 1st Battalion.Charles was promoted paid Lance Corporal on 16 October 1911, but, from 22 December 1911 reverted to Private because of misconduct. On 12 February 1913 he joined the 2nd Battalion in India. Charles was in India, with the 2nd Battalion Norfolk Regiment, when the First World War began. The Battalion went straight to Mesopotamia and Charles arrived there, with the rest of the Battalion, on 15 November 1914. He served with A Company. Charles would have been present at the Battle of Shaiba in April 1915. On 10 July 1915 Charles was on sentry duty and fell asleep. He was tried by Court Martial at Amarah on 15 July 1915 and found guilty. He was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment with hard labour. The sentence was suspended under the Army (Suspension of Sentence) Act 1915.  On 18 September 1915 Charles was admitted to 2 Field Ambulance at Sannaiyat, suffering from jaundice and he returned to duty on 22 September. He was admitted to 106 Field Ambulance (at Ayiyiyah?) with dysentery on 30 October 1915 and was transferred to 1 Field Ambulance on 10 November 1915 before, on 15 November, being transferred to 19 Casualty Clearing Hospital.   On 21 November 1915 the 2nd Battalion were in a night march moving into position ready for an attack at Ctesiphon at dawn on 22 November 1915. The Battalion suffered 267 casualties during the Battle of Ctesiphon, around half their fighting strength.  On 29 November 1915 the British, including the 2nd Norfolks, were ordered to retreat to Kut-al-Amarah. The forced march lasted 46 hours and they managed to reach Kut on 3 December 1915. From 7 December the British and Indian Army garrison was besieged by the Turkish Army. The siege lasted 147 days and the garrison suffered terribly during that time. On 29 April 1916 the garrison surrendered. The garrison was marched into captivity at Aleppo. Charles was taken prisoner at Kut-al-Amarah. Charles died from dysentery, at Borak Camp Hospital, Baghdad, on 4 July 1916. This date is confirmed in his service papers. Less than 90 of the Norfolk men survived the siege at Kut.Charles' cousin, Thomas Chenery, died in 1916 whilst serving with the 1/4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment.

A Private with the 4th Battalion, Ivan died on 28th of November 1943 aged 22. Ivan was born at Lowestoft on 25 May 1921, a son of James Thomas and Ivy Florence Elizabeth Upson. He was baptised at Saint Margaret's Church on 16 June 1921, and his family lived at 83 Seago Street. Ivan was working as a yarn twister when he enlisted.In autumn 1939 the 4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment was on guard duty in the Lowestoft area and from July to September 1940 had various local deployments, including guarding Great Yarmouth. The Battalion then moved to Bedfordshire and then Scotland until April 1941. Next the Battalion moved to Bury, Lancashire, and Hereford, before embarking on the S.S. Andes at Liverpool and sailing for Halifax, Nov Scotia. The Battalion changed ship, to the American liner Wakefield, and sailed for Trinidad and then Cape Town, arriving on 9 December 1941. The Battalion was given three days shore leave.The Battalion was part of 54 Brigade in the 18th (East Anglian) Division. With the Japanese entry into the war the Battalion was now allocated to the Far East and sailed for India, arriving on 5 January 1942. The Battalion had three weeks of training before embarking at Bombay and sailing for Singapore, arriving on 29 January 1942. The Battalion had orders to defend the Golf Course and then fell back to defend the perimeter before the Singapore garrison was forced to surrender on 15 February 1942. Ivan was reported missing in the Fall of Singapore on 15 February 1942 and later noted to be a prisoner of war in Japanese hands. Ivan died from malaria at Tamoran a camp on the Burma Railway. In January 1946 his body was exhumed and he was then reburied at the Kanchanaburi Military Cemetery.

A Civilian, Hilda died on 6th of March 1941 aged 44. Hilda was born at Lowestoft on 25 March 1896, a daughter of William John and Elizabeth Upton. She was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 19 April 1896 and her family lived at 5 Rant Score. By 1901 they were living at 15 Arnold Street. In 1911 her family lived at 65 Arnold Street and Hilda was a nursemaid. By 1939 Hilda’s mother had died and she lived with her father at 28 Yeovil Road. Hilda was at Lowestoft Public Library, Clapham Road, on 6 March 1941. Lowestoft resident Alfred J. Turner gave an account of the air raid in which Hilda died. When the air raid took place, the librarian moved all the people in the library to the air raid shelter. For some reason Hilda did not get into the shelter and was killed, and the library building was destroyed.

A Mate with Steam Drifter Lord Carnarvon (Lowestoft), Albert died on 19th of November 1914 at the age of 32.Albert was born at Thorpe, Norwich, on 9 December 1881, a son of Maria Utting. He was baptised at Saint Andrew's Church, Thorpe, on 7 September 1884. By 1890 his family were living at Beccles, and from 28 July 1890 Albert attended Geldeston School. In 1891 his family lived at The Street, Geldeston. In 1907 Albert married Rose Elizabeth Solomon, of Carlton Colville, at Geldeston Church. In 1911 they lived at Geldeston. By 1914 they were living at Carlton Road, Pakefield.  Albert was the Mate on the steam drifter Lord Carnarvon, LT 1197. The drifter sailed from Lowestoft on 18 November 1914. An explosion was heard during the evening, but next morning there was no sigh of the drifter. Wreckage was later washed ashore at Gorleston and Southwold. It seems that the Lord Carnarvon was sunk by a mine, most probably when sailing off Gorleston. All ten of the crew were killed. See: Lowestoft – History of Lowestoft's Fishing Industry (wordpress.com)

A Flight Sergeant with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Alfred died on 19th August 1942 aged 21. Alfred was born at Kessingland on 2 September 1920, a son of Alfred and Ellen Mary Utting. He was baptised at Saint Edmund’s Church, Kessingland, on 21 August 1922. In 1921 his family lived at 8 The Ridge, and this was still their home in 1939.In 1939 Alfred was a student at Saint Luke’s Teacher Training College, Heavitree Road, Exeter. In 1942 Alfred married Marjorie E. Pennick, this was registered in the Romford district. Marjorie lived at Plaistow, Essex.Alfred joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve after May 1940. Alfred was a Pilot and in August 1942 he served with 130 Squadron.  On 19 August 1942 Alfred was flying Spitfire VB, BL356 'Q', from Thorney Island, in support of the Dieppe Raid. He was shot down by a Fw 190.Alfred’s brother, Arthur, served with the Merchant Navy and died in 1941. WITH THANKS TO:Malcolm Barrass

An Ordinary Seaman, Arthur died on 20th of May 1941 aged 18. Arthur was born at Kessingland on 3 March 1923, a son of Alfred and Ellen Mary Utting. His family lived at 8 The Ridge, Kessingland.In May 1941 Arthur was serving on the S. S. Rothmere. The ship was part of convoy HX-126. On 20 May the Rothmere dispersed from the convoy and, when off Cape Farewell, was hit by a torpedo from submarine U-98 and began to sink. Twenty-two people, including Arthur, died, and another thirty-four were rescued.His brother, Alfred, served with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and died in 1942.  

A Fourth Hand with Steam Trawler Rio (Grimsby), Austin died on 26th of January 1915 at the age of 31. Austin was born at Kessingland in 1882, a son of Benjamin and Matilda Utting. He was baptised at Saint Edmund's Church, Kessingland, on 29 October 1882. In 1891 his family lived at Beach Road, Kessingland. In 1901 Austin was a seaman working on the trawler Bittern, LT228, at Newlyn. On December 25 1907 Austin married Annie Welsh at Saint Edmund's Church, Kessingland. Austin was a fisherman and they both lived at Kessingland. By 1911 they were living at High Street, Kessingland, and later at 5 Belvedere Place, Kessingland Beach, Suffolk. The trawler Rio left Grimsby on 26 January for North Sea fishing grounds and was not seen again. By June 1915 the Board of Trade had concluded that the trawler had been sunk with all hands. 

A Civilian, Beatrice died on 12th of May 1943 aged 67. Beatrice was born at Lowestoft on 11 December 1875, a daughter of Robert George and Emma Richard Dowsing. She was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 6 February 1876. In 1881 her family lived at Sparham’s Buildings, Saint Peter’s Street. In 1891 Beatice lived with her uncle and aunt, Charles and Mary Breach, and she worked as a beatster. In 1901 Beatrice lived with her parents, at 222 Clapham Road, and she was a net mender.    On 27 November 1902 Beatrice married William George Hickleton Utting at Saint Margaret’s Church. Beatrice lived at 222 Clapham Road and William was a baker living at Leiston Road. In 1911 they were living at 67-69 Saint Peter’s Street and they both worked in their own bakery, confectioners and off licence, and this was still their home, and business, in 1921. By 1939 they were living at the Jubilee Stores, 177 High Street, where William was the publican.On 12 May 1943 a birthday party was being held at the Jubilee Stores when the Focke-Wulf Raid took place. A bomb exploded inside the pub killing sixteen people including Beatrice and William.   See house on LowestoftOldAndNow.org

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Jasper died on 9th of August 1917 at the age of 29. Jasper was born at Kessingland on 6 November 1887, a son of Benjamin and Caroline Jane Utting. In 1891 his family lived at Beach Road, Kessingland. On 21 July 1895 Jasper was baptised at Saint Edmund’s Church, Kessingland. In 1901 his family lived at The Beach, Kessingland. In 1911 they lived at Green Lane, Kessingland, and later at Hill Cottage, Kessingland Beach.In 1911 Jasper worked on the trawler Golden Rule. Jasper volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 12618, and was posted to the 9th Battalion. He arrived in France with the 9th Battalion on 31 August 1915. Jasper was wounded and his name appears in the War Office Daily Casualty List 25 October 1916. Subsequently he was posted to the 7th Battalion. On 7 August 1917 the 7th Battalion moved into positions in the Wancourt-Feuchy area. On 8 August the battalion’s positions were shelled with gas. During the day the battalion withdrew to a feature known as The Cave in order to be sheltered from the British bombardment that was due to take place the next day. This was to be a very heavy bombardment intending to severely damage the German front line and allow raiding parties from various units, including the 7th Battalion, to move forward with the intention of taking prisoners and doing further damage to the German positions. The battalion war diary reports that the operation was a success.Jasper was killed in action during the operation on 9 August.     

A Skipper with H.M. Drifter Maida, Roland died on 16th of March 1940. Roland was born at Kessingland on 16 May 1911, a son of Roland Henry and Helena Letitia Utting. He was baptised at Saint Edmunds Church, Kessingland, on 29 October 1911 and his family lived at Green Lane. In 1921 his family were still living at Green Lane. In 1936 Roland was awarded his certificate of competency as a Skipper. By 1939 Roland's father had died and he lived with his mother at 9 Green Lane, Kessingland. From 7 September 1939 Roland served as a Skipper with the Royal Naval Reserve (Patrol Service), with number WS 3000 (later TS 119). On 22 November 1939 he joined H.M.S. Drake; from 7 December 1939 with H.M.S. Lochinvar; from 21 December 1939 with H.M.S. Pembroke X. On 4 January 1940 he took command, as Skipper, of H.M. Drifter Maida. The Maida was used in minesweeping duties and was sunk by a mine off Margate, ten miles east of North Foreland. Six of the crew, including Roland, were killed and six rescued by the minesweeping drifter Mare. 

A Civilian, William died on 12th of May 1943 aged 62. William was born at Lowestoft on 31 March 1881, a son of John and Eleanor Eliza Utting. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 3 July 1881. In 1891 his family lived at 33 Raglan Street and later his parents lived at Springfield, Saint Margarets Road.In 1901 William had his own bakery and confectionary shop at 67-69 Saint Peter’s Street. On 27 November 1902 William married Beatrice Elizabeth Dowsing at Saint Margaret’s Church. William was a baker living at Leiston Road and Beatrice lived at 222 Clapham Road. In 1911 they were living at 67-69 Saint Peter’s Street and they both worked in their own bakery, confectioners and off licence, and this was still their home, and business, in 1921. By 1939 they were living at the Jubilee Stores, 177 High Street, where William was the publican.On 12 May 1943 a birthday party was being held at the Jubilee Stores when the Focke-Wulf Raid took place. A bomb exploded inside the pub killing sixteen people including William and Beatrice.   See house on LowestoftOldAndNow.org

A Private with the 13th Battalion, Herbert died on 30th of November 1917 at the age of 34. It is difficult to establish the facts of Herbert’s early life. The 1911 Census states that he was born at Kentish Town, London, and would have been born in 1883. Soldiers Died in the Great War gives his place of birth as Hampstead, London.Herbert was also, at times, known as Albert, Albert William, and Berty.In 1903 Herbert married Lilian Violet Butcher: this was registered in the Mutford district. In 1904 they lived at Dunbar House, Whapload Road, and Herbert worked as a musician. Herbert and Violet had four children, born in 1904, 1906, 1907 and 1908. Two of the children died in infancy. By 1907 they were living at 5 Danish Cottages, Police Station Road. In 1907 Herbert appears in a newspaper report having been in trouble with the police for singing and shouting in a street in Cobholm, Great Yarmouth, after 10 p.m. at night. By December 1910 Hebert and Lilian were living at 19 White Horse Street. Lilian died in December 1910 and the 1911 Census shows Herbert, and two of his children, as inmates at Oulton Workhouse and states that Herbert was ‘formerly a labourer’. In 1913 Herbert lived at 53 Mariners Street and in 1914 he lodged at the Mariners Inn. Herbert married Emma Jane Ayres in 1916: this was registered in the Mutford district. By February 1917 Herbert was serving in the Army and Emma lived at 1 Wellington Cottages, Clapham Road. In 1919 Emma married Henry Read.Herbert enlisted in the Army at Richmond, Surrey. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 34352 and was drafted to France where he was transferred to the Essex Regiment, service number 41006, and posted to the 13th Battalion. On 26 November 1917 the 13th Battalion moved from Doignies to relieve the 14th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles in front line trenches. On the night of 29/30 November they relieved the 2nd Battalion South Staffordshire Regiment in positions astride the Canal du Nord. The enemy activity through the night was described as ‘normal’. At 6.30 a.m. on 30 November the enemy put down a barrage on the positions near Lock Number 5 and the bridge. Around 7.30 a.m. this fire intensified and at 9.30 a.m. the enemy launched an attack in great numbers. The attack was repulsed by B Company, at Lock 5, but they used up nearly all of their ammunition and bombs.A further attack led to men of the battalion retiring southwards from the Sunken Road position. About 10.30 a.m. a further intense barrage was laid on the battalion’s positions and this included heavy shells and gas. At this time another enemy attack was launched from the north-east. At 11 a.m. A Company were ordered to hold their position and fight to the last. About 12 o’clock B Company, now numbering 40 men, was forced to retire as did the remaining garrison at the Sunken Road: this meant that Lock 5 and Sunken Road were immediately occupied by the enemy. During the afternoon men of the battalion made two attacks to try to regain the Sunken Road position, but these were repulsed. The enemy then made repeated attempts to move from Sunken Road to Canal Trench, but were prevented by the battalion’s machine gunners. During the night the battalion tried three times to retake Sunken Trench but could not do so. The battalion were then relieved by 22nd Battalion Royal Fusiliers. It is estimated that between 400 and 500 German soldiers became casualties.The battalion’s casualties between 30 November and 4 December were:Officers: four wounded and missing, two missing, four woundedOther ranks: 16 killed, 9 wounded and missing, 269 missing, 78 woundedHerbert was killed in action on 30 November. 

A Gunner with 187 Siege Battery, William died on 22 February 1919, at the age of 34.William was born at Blofield in 1885, a son of William and Elizabeth Vyse. In 1891 his family lived at 19 Globe Street, Norwich, and by 1911 were living at Ice House Lane, Bracondale, Norwich. William married Ethel Sarah Howell at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, on 18 April 1915. William was working as a dairyman when they married (possibly for, or with, Ethel's father). They lived at 61 London Road South, Lowestoft.William enlisted in the Royal Garrison Artillery at Lowestoft on 10 December 1915, but remained on the reserve until April 1916. On 8 July 1916 he was posted to 46 Company. On 11 July 1916 he was posted to 176 Siege Company and arrived in France the same day, then, on 10 September 1916, he was posted to 187 Siege Company. William had home leave from 23 November to 6 December 1918 and then returned to France. He returned to England on 13 February 1919.William developed acute pneumonia and died from that illness. After William's death Ethel moved to Norwich and lived at 8 Carshalton Road. William is named on Saint John's War Memorial and Saint Margaret's War Memorial. William's service papers are in WO 363.

A Company Quartermaster Sergeant with the 3rd Battalion, George died on 5th of June 1916 at the age of 62.George was born at Morley, Wymondham, Norfolk, in 1854. He is believed to have been a son of John and Mary Wade, but he has not been found in any birth or census records. George was working as a groom when he enlisted in the Army at Ipswich on 27 December 1876. He joined the Royal Artillery, service number 1518. George stated that he was nineteen years old. He served until 1 March 1879, when he was honourably discharged being unfit for further service.   George was working as a groom when he enlisted in 1/4th Foot, at Fleetwood, on 27 February 1880, service number 3149, later 2939. George stated that he was eighteen years of age and did not claim his previous service. In 1881 his regiment became The King’s (Royal Lancaster Regiment). He served in India, with the 2nd Battalion, from 16 March 1881 to 25 February 1896.George was promoted Lance Corporal on 9 August 1882, and Corporal on 23 October 1883, and Sergeant on 1 December 1884. On 12 February 1890 he re-engaged to complete 12 years. George was promoted to Canteen Sergeant on 21 November 1890 and Colour Sergeant on 11 November 1897.George was posted to the Depot on 19 August 1898, the 1st Battalion on 1 April 1900, to the Depot on 20 April 1900, and to the 2nd Volunteer Battalion on 15 December 1900. From 21 November 1901 George was permitted to continue in the service beyond 21 years and he became a permanent staff instructor with the 5th Battalion. George was awarded the Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.He was discharged, on termination of engagement, at Lancaster, on 26 February 1909, and his intended place of residence was 9 Alexandra Road, Carnforth, Lancashire. George married Mary Isabel Palfreyman at Karachi, India, 26 February 1889. In 1911 they lived at Sunny Bank, Lindale-in-Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands, Lancashire. By 1914 they were living at The Haven, Sands Lane, Oulton, Lowestoft.  George was working as a market gardener and groom when he enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft on 18 September 1914. George stated that he was 53 years and nine months old. He was allowed to rejoin his old regiment as a Colour Sergeant, service number 4548. He was posted to the, newly formed, 8th Battalion. George was promoted to Company Quartermaster Sergeant on 21 September 1914. On 16 March 1915 George was posted to the 3rd Battalion. He suffered from chronic bronchitis and was transferred to the Command Depot Convalescence Camp, at Sutton Coldfield, on 29 October 1915. He was posted back to the 3rd Battalion, at Plymouth, on 5 February 1916. A medical board, held at Plymouth in May 1916, found that he had chronic bronchitis and general debility. In fact, George had carcinoma of the larynx and he died on 5 June 1916, six days before he was to be discharged from the Army being no longer physically fit for war service. An account of George’s funeral was published in the Evening Star (Ipswich) on 12 June 1916, page 3:MILITARY FUNERAL AT OULTONOn Saturday afternoon a military funeral – a very rare occurrence in the parish – took place at Oulton, when an impressive service attracted a considerable concourse. The deceased was Company Sergeant Major George William Wade, aged 62, of the King’s Own Royal Lancasters. He enlisted in 1880, and was discharged in 1909 having seen 15 or 16 year’s foreign service. He, however, rejoined on the outbreak of war, and had since been acting as instructor. The mourners were: The widow, Mr. and Mrs, Polfreyman (sister and brother-in-law), Mrs. Page (sister), Miss Polfreyman (sister-in-law). The military element was supplied by B Company of The Queen’s West Surrey Regiment from Lowestoft, who attended with band (which played the “Dead March” and other music from the deceased’s residence to Oulton church), and supplied the firing party and buglers, who sounded the “Last Post”. Eight of the regiment acted as bearers, the coffin being covered with the Union Jack and bearing the deceased’s accoutrements. It was of polished elm, with plate inscribed: “George Wm. Wade, died 6th June, 1916, aged 62 years”. The Rev. H. Martin, the new Rector of Oulton officiated. Among the floral tributes (in addition to those from the family) were a couple from Mr. and Mrs. W. Hartell and Mr. and Mrs. Barber and family. Mr. C.B. Darby, Oulton Broad, was undertaker.      Note: The only conclusive evidence of George’s age comes from the details on his coffin plate. 

A Civilian, Lancelot died on 12th of May 1943 aged 30. Lancelot was born at Kessingland on 26 June 1912, a son of William John and Lucy Jane Wade. He was baptised at Saint Edmund’s Church, Kessingland, on 1 September 1912. His family lived at Ivy Nook, High Street, Kessingland, throughout his life. In 1939 Lancelot was an agricultural blacksmith and a member of the Home Guard. Lancelot was buried at Saint Edmund’s Churchyard, Kessingland, on 17 May 1943 and a note in the burial register reads ‘killed by enemy aircraft in Kessingland 12 May 1943.’ It seems that he was at his blacksmith’s shop at his home, Ivy Nook, when he was killed. 

A Private with the 1st Battalion, Ivo died on 5th of October 1916 at the age of 31. Ivo was born at Hawkhurst, Kent, on 8 October 1886, a son of Alfred and Maria Wadlow. By 1891 his father had died and his family lived at The Moor, Hawhurst. In 1901 they lived at Dainton's Villa, Station Road, Hawkurst. Ivo was working as a labourer when he joined the Royal Navy as a Domestic 3rd Class on 21 March 1903. He served until 31 August 1903 when he was discharged services no longer required. Ivo joined the East Kent Regiment and served for four years. The 1911 Census shows him with the 2nd Battalion in India. In January 1912 Ivo moved to Canada. In 1912 Ivo married Ade Eliza Chaston at Halifax, Nova Scotia. By 1916 Ada was living at 7 Oakland Terrace, Kessingland.On 6 April 1916 Ivo enlisted in the Canadian Army at Wellington Barracks, Halifax, Nova Scotia. He had been working as a clerk. He arrived in England on 6 July 1916 and in France on 27 August 1916. Ivo was wounded on 2 October 1916 and died from his wounds at the South Midland Casualty Clearing Station on 5 October 1916.  

A Sergeant with 217 Squadron, William died on 30th of September 1940 aged 21.William was born at Wandsworth, London, on 19 August 1919, a son of William and Helen Alice Wake. He was baptised at Harrow Weald on 25 January 1920 and his family lived at The Cottage, Harrow Weald. In 1921 his family lived at ‘Simplicity’, Old Fort Road, Shoreham-by-Sea. William’s father died and in 1927 his mother married Selwyn Wollaston Humphrey of Oulton Broad Lowestoft.The details of the relationship between William’s mother and Selwyn Humphrey are unusual. In fact, they were married in 1909 but divorced in 1917 and then Helen lived with William Wake, who was William’s father, but after his death she remarried Selwyn Humphrey. In 1939 Helen and Selwyn lived at Sea View, Broad View, Oulton Broad. William was a Sergeant (Pilot) and served with 217 Squadron. On 30 September he was on a training flight in Hudson N7273, of No 1 (Coastal) Operational Training Unit. The aircraft stalled and crashed near Cummertrees, Annan and is buried in Oulton (St Michael) Churchyard.CREDIT: Malcolm Barrass for added details

A Private with the 9th Battalion, Edward died on 7th of June 1917 at the age of 25. Edward was born at Lowestoft in 1891, a son of Frederick Woolnough and Emily Grace Wales. He was baptised at Saint John’s Church, Lowestoft, on 6 December 1891, and his family lived at 15 Clapham Road, and this was still their home in 1911 when Edward worked as a furnisher’s assistant. Edward enlisted in the Army at Great Yarmouth. He joined the Norfolk Regiment, service number 9113 and was posted to the 9th Battalion in France. Edward was transferred to the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, service number 40620, and joined the 9th Battalion. On 6 June 1917 the 9th Royal Dublin Fusiliers moved into positions in readiness for their assault as part of the Battle of Messines Ridge. En route they were bombarded with gas shells. On arrival they dug in to lie in support of 47 Brigade. At zero hour, 3.10 a.m., the mine at St. Eloi was exploded and the barrage began. The battalion held their positions and were intermittently shelled by the enemy. At 12.30 p.m. the advanced in artillery formation. By 1.30 p.m. B and C Companies were in the front line and C and D Companies, and battalion headquarters, were at Torreken Farm. They began consolidation work covered by their Lewis gun teams. During the night the units of 33 Division passed through the 9th Battalion’s positions. The battalion’s casualties for 7 June were:Officers: nilOther ranks: six killed, 26 wounded, 9 missingEdward was killed in action on 7 June.  

A Sapper with 1st Field Company, West Riding Division, Bernard died on 17th of January 1915 at the age of 19.Bernard was born at Leeds in 1896, a son of Charles Asquith Walker and Maude Clarke Walker. In 1901 his family were living at 88 Craven Road, Leeds, and in 1911 at 36 Shakespeare Road, Rotherham. After the First World War his family moved to Lowestoft and lived at of 42 A High Street. Bernard was working as a fitter and living at 36 Shakespeare Road, Rotherham, when he enlisted in the Royal Engineers, at Sheffield, on 5 October 1914. Bernard died, from meningitis, at Newark-on-Trent Hospital.  Bernard's brother, John, was killed in action in 1916 whilst serving with the 8th Battalion York and Lancaster Regiment. 

A Civilian, Edith died on 23rd of January 1942 aged 52. Edith was born at Lowestoft on 14 January 1890, a daughter of Walter Alexander and Matilda Budds. In 1891 her family lived at 55 Tonning Street, and by 1901 they were living at 57 Stanley Street.In 1911Edith was in domestic service, working for Alice Ditchfield at Belvoir Villa, 1 Church Road.  On 23 September 1924 Edith married Albert Edward Walker at Saint John’s Church. Albert was a shop assistant living at 35 Saint George’s Road, and Edith lived at 57 Stanley Street. In 1939 Edith and Albert lived at of 57 Stanley Street. Edith died at her home, 57 Stanley Street, during an air raid. Edith's brother, Arthur Budds, served with the Suffolk Regiment and died in 1918. 

A Private with 8th Bn., John died on 7th of June 1917 at the age of 26. John was born at Launceston, Tasmania, Australia, on 31 December 1891, a son of Charles Asquith Walker and Maude Clarke Walker. By 1901 his family were living at 88 Craven Road, Leeds, and in 1911 at 36 Shakespeare Road, Rotherham, and John worked as a chemist. After the First World War his family moved to Lowestoft and lived at of 42 A High Street. See house on LowestoftOldAndNow.orgJohn was living at 36 Shakespeare Road, Rotherham, and working as a trapeze artist, when he enlisted in the Army at Rotherham on 10 December 1915. Initially he was on the reserve, but he was called up for service on 8 January 1916. He joined the York and Lancaster Regiment and served with the 3rd Battalion before being posted to the 8th Battalion. He embarked for France on 6 April 1916 and joined the Battalion, in the field, on 28 April 1916. John would have been with the Battalion when they attacked German positions near Ovillers on 1 July 1916 and sustained heavy losses. On 6 June 1917 the 8th Battalion moved into assembly positions at Mount Sorrell and Maple Street in readiness for the attack the next day, which was part of the Battle of Messines Ridge. At zero hour, 3.10 a.m., the attack began and at 6.50 a.m. the 8th Battalion moved off to attack the final objective: positions near Image Crescent. They took their objective along with a strong point on the right and a feature known as the Knoll. There were no counter attacks.The battalion’s casualties were:Officer: one killed, two missing believed killed, six woundedOther ranks: an estimated 300 casualties   John was presumed to have been killed in action on 7 June.John's brother Bernard died in 1915 whilst serving with the Royal Engineers. 

A Private with the 1st Battalion, William died on 3rd of August 1918 at the age of 21. William was born at Pakefield in 1897, a son of William and Annie Bessie Walker. In 1901 his family lived at Beach Street, Pakefield, and by 1911 at 35 Saint George’s Road, and William was a telegraph messenger. William enlisted in the Army at Bury St. Edmunds. He joined the Middlesex Regiment, service number G/50024, and was posted to the 9th Battalion and then to the 1st Battalion in France. There is no record of where, when, or how, William was wounded, but he died of wounds and the fact he is buried at Croix-Rouge Military Cemetery suggests that he died at 44 Casualty Clearing Station. 

A Private with the 1/4th Battalion, Thomas died on 23rd of April 1917 at the age of 28. Thomas was born at Lowestoft in 1888, a son of John Thomas and Hannah Wall. In 1891 his family lived at 40 High Street, Gorleston (note some sources state that Thomas was born at Gorleston). In 1901 they lived at 5 Colville Road, Kirkley. By 1911 they were living at 15 Union Place and Thomas was a milkman, hawker or deliverer. Later his parents lived at 15 Colville Road. On 17 April 1913 Thomas married Violet Hilda Hall. Thomas was a dairyman and they both lived at 51 Saint Peter’s Street. Later Violet lived at 21 Ontario Road. Thomas enlisted in the Army at Ipswich. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 3817. He did not serve overseas before 1916. Thomas was posted to the 1/4th Battalion in France and served with II Platoon, A Company. In 1917 he was renumbered 201227.On 23 April 1917 the 1/4th Battalion took part in the assault on the German front and support trenches of the Hindenburg Line near the River Sensee. After an artillery barrage the battalion’s advance began at 4.45 a.m. They faced considerable opposition. By 6.30 a.m. B Company were within 200 yards of their objective, but were held up by granatenwerfer (grenade launcher), rifle and machine-gun fire. They held on until 9.30 a.m. when a German counter-attack forced them to withdraw. C and D Companies, with the support of one tank, were able to reach a sunken road by about 9.30 a.m. They also faced considerable opposition and, from 2 p.m. they were forced back by counter-attacks. The battalion was relived during the night. In the assault they had captured about 650 unwounded prisoners, five machine guns and a trench mortar. The battalion’s casualties were:Officers: one killed, eight woundedOther ranks: 41 killed, 160 wounded, 104 missing   Thomas was reported missing on 23 April and later presumed to have been killed in action on that date.  

A Private with the 2nd Battalion, John died on 20th of July 1916 at the age of 21. John was born at Pakefield on 18 February 1895, a son of Arthur William and Rhoda Waller. From 18 February 1898 John was pupil at Kirkley School. In 1900 his family lived at Wellington Road. For a short time, in 1900, he attended Cunningham School, Pakefield. In 1901 his family lived at 33 Saint Peter's Street, Norwich. By 1911 John’s mother had died and his family lived at 10 Roaches Court, Fisher's Lane, Norwich, and John worked as a porter for a hardware dealer. In 1914 Thomas' family lived at Saint Martins Alley, Norwich, and by 1916 his father was living at 42 Essex Road, Lowestoft. John enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 18476 and, in 1916, was posted to France to join the 2nd Battalion. Colonel Murphy’s ‘The History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927’ has the following account of the 2nd Battalion’s attack at Longueval 20 July 1916:It was still dark when the artillery bombardment lifted and the advance began. The two Suffolk companies in the forward line marched in double lines of platoons with a front of 140 yards each. Much bitter fighting followed, which, although indecisive locally enabled a footing to be gained in High Wood by the 33rd Division. The battalion’s losses were:Officers: four killed, two wounded, six missingOther ranks: 108 killed – with an unrecorded number wounded and missing.John was killed in action on 20 July. John’s brother Thomas served with the 8th Battalion Norfolk Regiment and died in 1915. 

A Sergeant with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Maurice died on 3rd of June 1942 aged 24. Maurice was born at Lowestoft on 29 August 1917, a son of Stanley Arthur and Alice Gertrude Waller. In 1921 Maurice's family lived at 8 Gordon Road, Lowestoft, and by 1939 they were living at The Hall, Gorleston Road, Oulton, and Maurice was an articled clerk to a Chartered Accountant.  Maurice joined the Royal Air force Volunteer Reserve after April 1940. He was a Wireless Operator. In June 1942 he served with 85 Squadron.On 3 June 1942 Maurice was part of the crew of a Boston II aircraft, number AH514, flying from Hunsdon, Hertfordshire. It is thought that his aircraft was mistakenly attacked, and shot down, by a R.A.F. might fighter in a ‘friendly-fire’ incident. Maurice’s aircraft crashed into the sea, off Foulness, but his body was recovered, and he is buried at Lowestoft (Normanston Drive) Cemetery. WITH THANKS TO:Malcolm Barrass

A Private with 8th Battalion, Thomas died on 11th of February 1915 at the age of 21. Thomas was born at Kirkley on 25 January 1894, a son of Arthur William and Rhoda Waller. He was baptised at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, on 23 February 1894 and his family lived at 90 Pakefield Street. In 1900 his family lived at Wellington Road. For a short time, in 1900, he attended Cunningham School, Pakefield. In 1901 his family lived at 33 Saint Peter's Street, Norwich. By 1911 Thomas' mother had died and his family lived at 10 Roaches Court, Fisher's Lane, Norwich, and Thomas worked as a printer. In 1914 Thomas' family lived at Saint Martins Alley, Norwich, and by 1916 his father was living at 42 Essex Road, Lowestoft. Thomas was working as a baker when he volunteered and joined the Army at Norwich on 1 September 1914. He joined the Norfolk Regiment and, from 4 September 1914, was posted to the 8th Battalion and joined B Company.Thomas died from cerebrospinal meningitis at Colchester Military Hospital. Thomas' brother John served with the 2nd Battalion Suffolk Regiment and died in 1916.

A Private with 88th Field Ambulance, Albert died on 4th of October 1917 at the age of 24. Albert was born at Walworth, London, on 20 December 1892, a son of John and Jane Warby. He was baptised at Rodney Road Wesly-Methodist Chapel, Lockfields, Surrey, on 15 January 1893 and his family lived at 29 Barlow Street.   In 1901 his family lived at 26 Maidstone Road. From 12 September 1905 Albert attended Lowestoft School of Science, and, at that time, his family lived at 363 London Road South. By 1911 Albert’s family were living at 21 Clapham Road and Albert was a booking clerk at The Claremont Pier.  Albert was a student at Lowestoft Technical School before attending teacher training at Peterborough College. Albert married Ida Mary Smith at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 18 April 1917. The marriage register states that Albert was a school teacher living at 52 Church Road, and Ida lived at 65 Rotterdam Road. Note: newspaper reports show that Albert was already serving in the R.A.M.C. when he married Ida. Ida was still living at 65 Rotterdam Road in 1917.Albert enlisted in the Army at Norwich. He joined the Royal Army Medical Corps, service number 2289, and was later renumbered 475299. He was posted to France to serve with 88th Field Ambulance.  On 3 October 1917 40 men and three motor ambulances of 88 Field Ambulance were attached to 87 Field Ambulance. On 4 October the 87th Field Ambulance were supporting the 1st Royal Dublin Fusiliers, and other units, in an attack on the railway near Langemarck. Albert was one of a party of men, under Captain Caesar, manning an Aid Post at Reitres Farm. A shell exploded at the east side of the post and one man was killed, one severely wounded, and 20 others sustaining wounds. Albert died on 4 October. It is thought that Albert was the man severely wounded and that he died of wounds the same day. It seems that all of the men killed or wounded at Reitres Farm were attached from 87 Field Ambulance.  Albert was buried at map reference B.23.c.5.1. (this may have been a small cemetery). In 1919 he was reburied at Duhallow A.D.S. Cemetery. 

A Seaman with H.M. Trawler Briton, Albert died on 21st of July 1915 at the age of 19. Albert was born at Pakefield on 15 March 1896, a son of John Lambert and Ellen Ward. From 17 April 1899 Albert attended Cunningham School. In 1901 his family lived at Pakefield Street, Pakefield. By 1907 his family were living at 126 Morton Road, Lowestoft. In 1911 Albert was an errand boy at a confectioners. Later his parents lived at 4 Wycombe Terrace, Saint Georges Road, Lowestoft. Albert joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 14 December 1914. On 23 January 1915 he joined the Duncan, and on 12 March 1915 he joined the trawler Briton. On 21 July 1915 the Briton struck a mine in the Thames Estuary, off the Long Sand Light Vessel. All eleven crew were killed. Albert's body was recovered and he was buried at Shotley. Albert's brother Frederick was killed in action on the Somme in 1916 whilst serving with the 1/6th Durham Light Infantry. 

An Able Seaman with S.S. Powhatan (Sunderland), Alfred died on 6th of April 1917 at the age of 28.Alfred was born at Aldeby, Norfolk, on 29 March 1889, a son of William and Alice Ward. He was baptised at Aldeby on 20 July 1890. In 1891 his family lived at The Street, Aldeby. By 1901 they were living at Wheatacre, Norfolk. Alfred’s mother died in 1902. In 1911 Alfred was a net rope man on the steam drifter Dollar Princess, LT 764, at Lowestoft. Later his father lived at Kimberley Road, Lowestoft.In 1917 Alfred was an Able Seaman on the S.S. Powhatan. On 6 April the Powhatan was taking a cargo of oil from Sabine, in Texas, U.S.A., to Kirkwall, Scotland. Around 25 miles north-west of North Rona, in the Atlantic Ocean, the ship was torpedoed by a German submarine and sank. Thirty six people, including Alfred, were killed. Alfred's half-brother, Herbert Jacob, died in the loss of the trawler W.A. Massey.

Formerly a Seaman with Benbow Battalion Royal Naval Division, Bertie died on 20th of September 1920 at the age of 25. Bertie was born at Herringfleet on 30 March 1895 (not 1894 as found in some sources), a son of George Frederick and Agnes Ward. In 1901 his family lived at 22 The Street, Lound. And they were still living at The Street in 1911.Bertie joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 2 January 1913. In 1912-1913 Bertie was employed as a fisherman on the trawler LT 594 and in 1913-1914 served as a Deck Hand on the trawler LT 463. He was called out for service on 3 August 1914 and instead of going to sea he was posted to Benbow Battalion of the Royal Naval Division. He was taken prisoner at Antwerp on 17 September 1914. In October 1914 he was being held at Doberitz, by April 1916 at Friedrichsfeld, Poland.Bertie was repatriated, arriving at Leith on 14 December 1918. He was soon admitted to the 2nd Scottish General Hospital and in January 191 he was admitted to Lowestoft Hospital. On 15 February 1919 he was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital, Chatham. A medical survey on 26 February 1919 found that Bertie had an injury to his spine which gave him an 80% disability. He was no longer physically fit for service, and he was invalided, to a pension, initially 22/- per week for thirteen weeks, on 26 March 1919. Bertie was awarded the Silver War Badge.  Bertie died of ‘disease’ at the Lowestoft and North Suffolk Hospital. He was buried at Lound on 24 September 1920. 

A Private with the 2nd Battalion, Ernest died on 9th of October 1918 aged 18. Ernest was born at Rushmere in 1899, a son of William and Martha Ward. In 1901 his family lived at Rectory Cottages, Rushmere. By 1911 they were living at 424 London Road South.Ernest enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Training Reserve, number TR/9/11987. He was transferred to the Suffolk Regiment, service number 42520, and posted to France to join the 2nd Battalion. On 8 October 1918 the 2nd Battalion were involved in an attack near Rumilly. In the attack the battalion lost ten men killed, 119 wounded, 14 missing, and two gassed. It would appear that Ernest was one of the men wounded on 8 October. He was one of ten men buried at map reference 57c.G.32.a.10.90. and his grave was marked with a cross. Several of the men that were buried with Ernest were from the New Zealand Army and by checking their records it is clear that they all died of wounds at an Advanced Dressing Station of the 1st New Zealand Field Ambulance. The fact that some sources state that Ernest died of wounds, and that Private Harrod, of Ernest’s battalion, also died of wounds, and that they were buried with the New Zealand soldiers suggests that Ernest also died from his wounds at the Advanced Dressing Station. Ernest, and the other nine men, were all reburied at Flesquieres Hill British Cemetery after the war.  Ernest’s brother served with the Queen’s Own (Royal West Kent Regiment) and died in 1917.

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Frank died on 23rd of July 1917 at the age of 22. Frank was born at Rushmere in 1894, a son of William and Martha Ward. He was baptised at Saint Michael’s Church, Rushmere, on 9 September 1894. In 1901 his family lived at Rectory Cottages, Rushmere. By 1911 they were living at 424 London Road South and Frank was a bootmaker’s apprentice.   On 10 August 1916 Frank married Ivy Irene Shipp at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. Frank was a Trooper with the Suffolk Yeomanry and Ivy lived at Arnold House, Sussex Road. Ivy was given away by her uncle, Mr. Aldous, of Colchester, as her father was in the Mediterranean serving as a Sub-Lieutenant with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve on the Hospital Ship Queen Alexandra. Ivy then lived at 115 Sussex Road, and other addresses in Lowestoft, including Frank’s family home, 424 London Road South, before moving to 2 Northgate Street, Beccles. On 10 April 1919 Ivy married James Barber and they moved to Canada and lived at 253, Grey Street, London, Ontario. Frank was living at 424 London Road South, and working as a barman and cellarman, when he attested for the Army, at Lowestoft, on 16 February 1916. He was called up on 4 March 1916 and joined the 3/1st Suffolk Yeomanry, service number 2541.Frank arrived at Boulogne, France, on 27 August 1916 and the next day joined 15 Infantry Base Depot. Frank was transferred to the Suffolk Regiment, to join the 1/4th Battalion. He was then transferred to The Queen’s (Royal West Kent Regiment), service number G/18109. His service papers show him being transferred to the 4th (Reserve) Battalion and then being posted, while in France, to the 7th Battalion on 7 September 1916.Frank was admitted to No 2 General Hospital with pyrexia of unknown origin and he was transferred to No 4 Convalescence Camp on 20 October 1916. He was then transferred to No 1 Convalescence Camp before joining the Base, at Etaples, on 13 November 1916. On 7 January 1917 Frank had to forfeit ten days pay for ‘making an improper reply to an N.C.O.’ On 30 April 1917 he joined the 7th Battalion in the field.        On 23 July 1917 the 7th Battalion were in front line trenches near Zillebecke, Belgium. During the day the enemy laid an intense bombardment on the battalion’s positions which were badly damaged. Both high explosive and gas shells were used. Later in the day the battalion was relieved by the 19th Battalion Liverpool Regiment and heavy shelling took place during the relief.   Frank was killed in action on 23 July. Frank’s personal effects, a metal watch, a chain, a silver match box, two dentures, one disc, letters, photos, a religious book, and a metal mirror were forwarded to Ivy. A note in the Lowestoft Journal, 13 October 1917, page 6, shows that Frank’s mother had been informed that Frank had been killed in action and that he was buried where he fell with a cross marking the grave.  Correspondence in 1921, between the Imperial War Graves Commission and the Army, shows that enquiries were made as to where Frank’s body was buried, but no record from any Grave Registration Unit could be found and it seems that his grave was lost. Frank’s brother Ernest served with the Suffolk Regiment and died in 1918.

A Private with 1/6th Bn., Frederick died on 1st of October 1916 at the age of 22.Frederick was born at Pakefield on 14 November 1893, a son of John Lambert and Ellen Ward. In 1901 Frederick's family lived at Pakefield Street, Pakefield. By 1907 Frederick's family were living at 126 Morton Road, Lowestoft. From 17 September 1907 Frederick attended Lowestoft School of Science. In 1911 Frederick was working at a junior clerk at a corn merchants. Later his parents lived at 4 Wycombe Terrace, Saint Georges Road, Lowestoft. On 1 October 1916 the 1/6th Battalion was involved in an attack to capture the village of Eaucourt-L'Abbaye. The War Diary for the 1/6th Battalion has:At 1 a.m. summer time altered back to normal by putting clock back 1 hour, this is to 12 midnight. 2nd Lieutenant Yaldwyn (Sniping Officer) attached to Y Company for duty.  Commanding Officer saw all Company Commanders at 3am to talk over details of the attack.  Completed jumping off trenches about dawn and occupied them in battle order by 6am.  60 men (draft and details) brought up from the Transport Lines to act as Carrying Party for the battalion.  Artillery bombardment of German trenches from 7am to 3.15pm. 2 Lieutenant Yaldwyn wounded about noon.  The Commanding Officer Major Wilkinson wounded about 1.30pm.  Lt. Colonel Bradford of the 9th Durham L.I. took over command of the Battalion for the period of the operations.3.15pm Assault delivered. 1st objective gained - on the left later on the right also. 2nd Lieutenants - Cotching, Barnett & Appleby wounded.Considerable amount of hostile Machine Gun fire from the right during the attack.  German trenches not much damaged by Artillery fire.  Block established on the right as troops on the right had not obtained their objective.  1 Company of the Durham L.I. sent up to re-inforce.  About midnight 2nd objective was gained by combined assault.German bombing attack on our 2nd line right repulsed in the early morning.  Fairly quiet day but wet.  During the night of the 2/3rd 6 Durham L.I. and 9 Durham L.I. relieved by 7 Northumberland Fusiliers. Relief completed about 4.30am.  Lt. Colonel Bradford ceased to be in command and Lieutenant Ebworth assumed command of the battalion.  Casualties: one officer and 48 other ranks killed, including Frederick; one man died of wounds. The number of men wounded not known. For his gallantry and leadership on that day Lieutenant-Colonel Bradford was awarded the Victoria Cross. Frederick's brother, Albert, served in the Royal Naval Reserve and died in 1915 in the loss of H.M. Trawler Briton.

A Corporal with 9th Bn. Hubert died on 22nd of December 1915 at the age of 32. Hubert was born at Blundeston in 1883, a son of Thomas and Martha Anne Ward. He was baptised at Saint Mary's Church, Blundeston, on 1 April 1883. In 1891 his family lived at High Street, Blundeston and by 1901 his family were living at The Street, Blundeston, and Hubert worked as a bricklayer's labourer. In 1911 they still lived at The Street, Blundeston, and Hubert worked as a bricklayer. Later his parents lived at 17 Brickfields Cottages, Somerleyton.Hubert volunteered and joined the Army. He enlisted in the Suffolk Regiment at Lowestoft. He joined the 9th Battalion and must have been a very capable solider because within a year he had been promoted to Sergeant. Hubert arrived in France with the 9th Battalion on 31 August 1915. We do not know exactly when Hubert was wounded, but it was possibly on the 19th or 20th of December 1915, when the Battalion were in trenches at St. Jean, and had to defend these trenches while Germans made a gas-attack with a heavy bombardment. Hubert died from wounds at No 10 Casualty Clearing Station.A note in the Thetford and Watton Times of December 23 1916, page 3, reads:In loving memory of Corporal Hubert W. Ward, of Blundeston, 9th Suffolks, who died of wounds at Ypres, Belgium, December 22nd 1915."He fought against might, he fought for the right,And died for the country he loved.We think of him always with love and pride.He was one of the brave, who for England died."From his sorrowing fiancee.  

A Gunner with 326th Siege Battery, James died on 31st of October 1917 at the age of 19. James was born at Kirkley on 28 April 1898, a son of James and Bessie Ward (note her first initial is also given as A). In 1901 his family lived at 2 Morton Road, Kirkley, and by 1911 they were living at 57 Morton Road. By 1916 they were living at 30 Clemence Street and later they lived at 98 Norwich Road, Lowestoft.James attended Morton Road County Council School and subsequently worked at the Conservative Club, Lowestoft. James enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft on 18 May 1916. He joined the Royal Garrison Artillery, service number 135027. James went to France on 20 September 1917 and served with 326 Siege Battery.No war diary exists for 326 Siege Battery, hence details of exactly what happened to James are not known, other than that he was killed in action at Zillebeke Lake, near Ypres, and was buried near Sorrell. Subsequently James’ grave was lost and so he is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial.  

A Civilian, Malvinia died on 13th of January 1942 aged 58. Malvinia was born at Corton on 3 September 1883, a daughter of Frederick and Susan Ward. In 1891 her family lived at High Street Corton. By 1901 Malvinia’s family lived at The Cliff, Corton, but Malvinia lived at 236 London Road, Kirkley, where she was a domestic nurse for the Devereux family.In 1911 Malvinia was living with her family at 7 Cliff Cottages, Corton, and she was a domestic servant. Malvinia, and her family, were still living at 7 Cliff Cottages in 1921 when she was the manageress in confectionary at the Co-operative Society Store on Clapham Road. By 1939 Malvinia was living at 11 Colman Road, Corton, and she was a cook-nurse.Malvinia died at Waller’s Restaurant, 90 London Road North, during the Waller Raid.

A Deck Hand, Robert died on 20th of March 1941 at the age of 61.Robert was born at Carlton Colville on 2 December 1879, a son of Robert and Elizabeth Ward. In 1881 his family lived at Back Lane, Barnby, and by 1891 had moved to Bell Yard, Carlton Colville. Robert was a fisherman. Robert married Daisy Blanche Friston at Saint Peter and Saint John's Church, Kirkley, on 10 February 1903. In 1911 they were living at 18 Oaklands Terrace, London Road, Kessingland, and by 1915 they were living at 26 Southwell Road, Kirkley.Robert joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 13 July 1915 and served as a Deck Hand with service number 7798 DA. During the First World War he served on board the converted trawlers Lord Lovat and Kingfisher. He was demobilized on 21 May 1919 and give his address as 26 Nelson Terrace, Nelson Road, Pakefield, and this was still their home in 1939. During the Second World War Robert served as a Deck Hand on the Steam Trawler Bianca, registered at Hull. There are conflicting reports about what happened to the Bianca, with one source suggesting that the vessel was torpedoed by an aircraft, however the Merchant Navy Casualty Card for Robert states that the trawler was damaged when a torpedo that had just been hauled in with the nets exploded. This version is supported by a report in the West Wales Guardian of 28 March 1941 which states that 'the gear had just been hauled when the explosion occurred' and adds that four men, including Robert, were killed, but another four, including three men from Lowestoft, escaped injury and that the 'Bianca' was taken in tow by another trawler but sank later. The newspapers added that this was Robert's first voyage on a Milford based trawler. Daisy died in 1963 and is buried at Kirkley Cemetery.  

A Private with 109 Company, Samuel died on 31st of December 1917 at the age of 40. Samuel was born at Lowestoft in 1878, a son of Samuel and Louisa Ward of 21 Reeve Street, Lowestoft. He was baptised at Christchurch, Lowestoft, on 4 August 1878. Samuel married Clara Maria Mills at the Methodist Free Church, London Road, Lowestoft, on 13 April 1904. By 1911 they were living at 67 Beccles Road, Lowestoft, and by 1916 they had moved to 162 Raglan Street. Samuel worked as a sailmaker. Samuel enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft on 15 May 1916. Initially he served with the Royal Fusiliers, number G/40381. and then with the 1st Labour Company (17th Labour Battalion) of the Queens Regiment, number G/17368. He landed at Le Havre on 17 January 1917.On 13 May 1917 Samuel was transferred to the Labour Corps, number 65290, and he served with 109 Company. No specific detail of what happened to Samuel can be found, other than that he was killed in action on 31 December. His personal effects, a pipe, two pouches, cards and photographs, were sent to Clara. Note: Commonwealth War Graves records list Samuel under his Queens Regiment service number. 

A Gunner with B Battery, 75th Brigade, Walter died on 16th of October 1918 aged 28. Walter was born at Corton in 1891, a son of Fredrick and Susan Ward. In 1891 his family lived at High Street, Corton, and by 1901 at The Cliff, Corton. In 1911 their address was 7 Cliff Cottages, and Walter was a general labourer. Walter volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Royal Field Artillery, service number 1046. Although the name of the first unit he served with is not known, it was a unit of the Territorial Force. Walter arrived in France on 17 November 1915. In 1917 he was renumbered 885321. On 30 November 1917 he was admitted to Catterick Military Hospital with myalgia of his left leg. Once recovered he returned to France and by October 1918 was serving with B Battery of 75 Brigade. On 16 October 1918 75 Brigade were in the vicinity of St. Hilaire. The batteries gave supporting fire for the attack on Haussy. From 4 a.m. a hostile enemy barrage fell on the brigade’s positions and B Battery had many casualties, and Walter was killed in action.  

A Civilian, Walter died on 1st of May 1942 aged 67. Walter was born at Plumstead, London, on 6 June 1874, a son of Richard Edward and Elizabeth Ward. In 1881 his family lived at 13 Arthur Street, Plumstead. In 1891 they lived at 18 Heavitree Road, Plumstead, and Walter was a blacksmith’s apprentice.On 30 August 1898 Walter married Ada Letitia Worley at Saint Margaret’s Church, Plumstead. Walter was a blacksmith living at 18 Heavitree Road and Ada lived at 52 Plumstead Road. In 1911 they lived at 119 Chestnut Road, Plumstead, and Walter was an examiner of forging at the Royal Carriage Department of the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich. By 1921 they were living at 39A Plum Lane, Plumstead, and Walter was a blacksmith examiner superintendent at the Royal Carriage Department, Woolwich Arsenal. In 1939 their home was at 92 Eglington Road, Woolwich and Walter was retired.       By May 1942 Walter and Ada were living at 166 Waveney Drive, Lowestoft. Walter was killed, at his home, during an air raid. He was buried at Kirkley Cemetery. 

A Drummer with the 8th Battalion, William died on 3rd of June 1916 at the age of 32. William was born at Lowestoft on 3 September 1883, a son of Samuel and Louisa Garwood Ward. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 3 May 1886. In 1891 his family lived at 21 Reeve Street. By 1901 William was lodging at 40 Temperley Road, Streatham, and William was a gas-fitter’s apprentice.On 24 April 1903 William married Jeanette Adelaide Griggs at the Church of the Ascension, Balham. William was a plumber, and both William and Jeanette were living at 10 Verran Road, Balham. By 1911 they were living at 217 Raglan Street and William was a general labourer at Lowestoft fish market. Later Jeanette lived at 140 Raglan Street.William volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 15386, and was posted to the 8th Battalion. William arrived in France with the Battalion on 25 July 1915.On 2 June 1916 most of the 8th Battalion moved into tents and shelters at Billon Wood, and A Company and the Battalion Headquarters moved to Bronfay Farm. The next day ‘The enemy put one 4.2” shell into Bronfay Farm causing following casualties: three drummers killed, eight wounded, three shell-shock.’William was among those killed at Bronfay Farm.  

A Mate, Frederick died on 21st May 1947 at the age of 46. Frederick was born at Kirkley in 1901, a son of William Daniel and Laura Warford. In 1911 his family lived at 59 Saint Georges Road, Lowestoft.Frederick, like his father, was a fisherman. During World War One Frederick served with the Fisheries Reserve and became a Deck Hand on the drifter 'Lord Roberts' (LT 149) [Note this is not the trawler Lord Roberts that was sunk in 1916]On 6th January 1924 Frederick married Gladys Louisa Beavers at Saint Peters Church, Kirkley.By 1939 Frederick and Gladys were living at 168 The Avenue, Lowestoft.In 1947 Frederick was the Mate on the Trawler Bucentaur. On 21st May 1947 the Bucentaur was involved with a collision with the American merchant/troopship Wilson Victory, sailing from Bremerhaven (for details see Wood v. United States, 125 F. Supp. 42 (S.D.N.Y. 1954) :: Justia ).The Bucentaur was lost with all hands.   Gladys died in 1988 and Frederick is commemorated on her headstone at Kirkley Cemetery. 

A Private with the 61st Battalion, Harold died on 21st of March 1918 at the age of 19. Harold was born at Pakefield on 6 May 1898, a son of William Tyrrell and Annie Laura Warford. He was baptised at All Saints’ Church, Pakefield, on 10 July 1898.  In 1901 his family lived at The Avenue, Pakefield. In 1911 his family lived at Ferndale, 25 The Avenue, Pakefield. Later they lived at 2 Trex Road, Pakefield. Harold attended Kirkley School and, on 18 June 1901, became a pupil at Cunningham School. He left school on 27 July 1911.  Harold enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Army Service Corps, service number T/261551. Harold was transferred to the Machine Gun Corps (Infantry), service number 123708, and posted to France where he served with the 61st Battalion. In March 1918 the 61st Battalion were based at Vaux. At 4.40 a.m. on 21 March the enemy began a very intensive bombardment that hist the battalion’s forward and rear areas. The day was very foggy. The men were ordered to battle stations at 4.50 a.m. The battalion war diary has ‘Owing to the thick fog little is known of the fighting in the front lines but Ellis and Enghein redoubts were still holding out at 11 a.m. and Fresnoy redoubt was surrounded and being attacked from all sides at that hour. When the fog lifted about noon large numbers of the enemy were seen advancing over Manchester Hill and were effectively engaged by [the battalion’s] guns and took cover behind Round Hill.’ About 3 p.m. the battalion’s gunners engaged the enemy moving in a column along the Holnon-Savy Road and inflicted heavy casualties. The attacks died down around 5 p.m. and the night was quiet except for a little shelling. During the day men of the battalion reserve were sent to Marteville to assist in a counter-attack and late in the day two guns were attached to the 2/7th Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment for counter-attack purposes.       The battalion’s casualties on 21-22 March were:Officers: 14 missing Other ranks: 320 (approximately) missingHarold was reported missing on 21 March 1918 and later was presumed to have been killed in action on that date. His family placed several ‘In Memorium’ notices in local newspapers which state that he was ‘missing supposed killed near St. Quentin.’ 

A Skipper with H.M. Trawler Royalo, William died on 1 September 1940, aged 45.William was born at Pakefield on 24 August 1895, a son of William Durrant and Susan Warford. In 1915 William lived at Rochester Road, and then at 8 Rant Score East. On 12 October 1916 William married Alice Maud Knights at Saint Margaret’s Church. William was serving with the Royal Naval Reserve and gave his address as 229 Clapham Road and Alice lived at 190 Raglan Street. In 1921 they lived at 7 Norwich Road. By 1939 they were living at 206 Clapham Road and William was a trawler fisherman.    William enrolled in the Royal Naval Reserve on 7 October 1915, service number 9028 D.A, and served as the Second Hand on the trawler D.H.S. William was ‘noted for war services’ at the Strait of Otranto on 15 May 1917. He joined the trawler Gowanlea on 1 April 1918 and was demobilised on 25 March 1919. William was awarded his certificate of competency as a Second Hand in 1921 his Skipper’s certificate in 1923. William was appointed Temporary Skipper with the Royal Naval Reserve with seniority from 2 January 1940, service number W.S. 3182 and then T.S. 299. He was drafted to H.M.S. Europa on 29 February 1940 and took command of the trawler Clythness on 12 March 1940. On 6 May 1940 he took command of the minesweeping trawler Royalo. On 1 September 1940 the Royalo was sweeping for mines at Mount’s Bay, off Penzance, when the trawler was blown up by a magnetic mine and six crew, including William, were killed. William’s body was recovered a few days later. William was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, London Gazette 1 January 1941.  

A Leading Aircraftman with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Gordon died on 25th of November 1942 aged 25. Gordon was born at Lowestoft on 16 October 1917, a son of James Harry and Rennie Warner. In 1921 his family lived at 81 Beresford Road and by 1939 they were living at 50 Beccles Road, Oulton Broad. In 1941 Gordon married Hazel Bird; this was registered in the Lothingland district. By 1939 Gordon was a Police Constable based at The Police Station, New Street, Chelmsford, Essex. Gordon enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve after August 1940.  In November 1942 Gordon was in the United States undergoing training as a pilot at the Basic Flying School, Gunter Field, Alabama. On 25 November he was flying a Valiant BT-13A aircraft, serial 41-21551. During the flight, primarily for instrument training, Gordon was the ‘handling pilot’. The aircraft was used for unauthorised aerobatic manoeuvres including a spiral dive. In trying to recover from the spiral dive the aircraft struck trees and crashed about six miles north of Mount Meigs. Gordon was thrown from the aircraft on impact and died, the other pilot under training survived. WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Ambrose died on 14th of October 1917.Ambrose was born at Norton, Loddon, in 1887, a son of John and Emma Warnes. In 1891 his family lived at Staithe Dam, Norton Subcourse, near Loddon. By 1901 they were living at Ferry Road, Norton Subcourse, and Ambrose was a general agricultural labourer. Later his parents lived at Raveningham.In 1908 Ambrose married Charlotte Ellen Victoria Barber, of Beccles. In 1911 they lived at Bull’s Green, Toft Monks, and Ambrose was a farm labourer. After Ambrose’s death Charlotte lived at 7 Raglan Cottages, Raglan Street, then at Thurlow Yard, Northgate Street, Beccles, before returning to Lowestoft. In 1919 she married George Manthorpe and later lived at 56 Bevan Street.Ambrose was living at Bull’s Green, Toft Monks, and working as an agricultural labourer, when he enlisted in the Army at Norwich on 20 January 1915. He joined the Norfolk Regiment, service number 18412. Ambrose went to the Depot and, on 9 February 1915, was posted to the 10th Battalion. Ambrose arrived in France on 7 October 1915, to join the 9th Battalion, but was posted to the 7th Battalion and joined that battalion on 17 October 1915. On 13 September 1916 Ambrose was admitted to 36 Field Ambulance with inflammation of connective tissue in his legs, and the rejoined the battalion on 19 September. On 26 July 1917 he was admitted to 37 Field Ambulance, and then 8 Casualty Clearing Station, with a sprained ankle. He returned to the battalion a few days later. He had sprained his ankle whilst carrying rations.  In early October 1917 the 7th Battalion were at Beaurains Camp rehearsing a large scale attack. On the evening of 13 October, they moved into the front line at Pick Cave, near Monchy le Preux, in readiness for the attack, which began with a barrage at 4.55 p.m. The barrage continued for six hours and the battalion’s ‘raiders’ formed up behind the barrage. At zero hour + four the barrage lifted, and the raiders entered the enemy trenches. The line was strongly held, but many Germans surrendered another 200 were killed. The enemy trenches were destroyed, and the Royal Engineers blew up two dugouts. Having reached all their objectives, the raising parties returned to their front line at zero + thirty. The raiders took thirty prisoners ands captured one light machine-gun and one ‘fish-tail’ trench mortar. The battalion’s casualties were:Officers: four killed, one died of wounds, one woundedOther ranks: 17 killed, one died of wounds, 37 wounded, 11 missingAmbrose was killed in action on 14 October. 

A Gunner with 152 Battery, 51 Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Gilbert died on 27th April 1941 aged 24.Gilbert was born at Liverpool on 13 March 1917, a son of George and Alice Marion Wase. In 1921 his family lived at 43 West Street, Southport. In 1939 Gilbert lived at The Bothy, Henham, and worked as a market gardener and subsequently he lived at Que Vive Cottage, Beach Road, Kessingland. Gilbert served with 152 Battery, 51 Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment. By April 1941 his unit was at Tobruk using their 3.7 inch guns to provide air defences for the harbour area during the 240 day siege of the town.Gilbert was one of five men if his Battery killed in action on 27 April, six others were wounded. 

A Lance Corporal with the 2nd Battalion, Bruce died on 26th of May 1940 aged 27. Bruce was born at Lowestoft in 1913, a son of William Arthur and Eliza Mary Waters. In 1921 his family lived at 7 Lorne Road, and this was still their home in 1939. In May 1940 Bruce’s battalion were involved in the retreat to Dunkirk. It is not possible to say exactly what happened to Bruce. Official casualty list 242, dated 27 June 1940, shows Bruce as one of dozens of men from his battalion who were missing on ‘date not recorded’: some of thee men were killed in the massacre at Le Paradis. Casualty list 304, dated 10 September 1940, states that Bruce was ‘wounded and missing – date not recorded’ and casualty list 844, dated 8 June 1942, states that he was ‘presumed to have been killed in action at some point between 26 May and 2 June 1940’. 

An Able Seaman with H.M.S. Ettrick, Ernest died on 7th of July 1917 at the age of 22. Ernest was born at Lowestoft on 31 January 1895, a son of Walter Henry and Emma Jane Waters. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 17 March 1895 and his family lived at 38 Melbourne Road, and this was still their home in 1901. Later his parents lived at 73 Beresford Road.Ernest was working as an errand boy when he joined the Royal Navy, as a Boy 2nd Class, on 5 October 1910. When the First World War began he was serving on H.M.S. Swiftsure and took part in operations at Gallipoli in 1915. On 15 August 1916 he joined H.M.S. Ettrick. On 7 July 1917 H.M.S. Ettrick was in the English Channel and was struck by a torpedo which blew off the ship’s bows. The ship did not sink, but 48 crew, including Ernest, were killed, and another man died later. Some sources suggest the Ettrick struck a mine, but the official report concluded that the ship had sustained damage from a torpedo. Ernest's father, Walter, served in the Royal Naval Reserve in World War One and was a fire watcher in World War Two and was killed in an air raid in 1943.

A Third Hand with Trawler Rupee (Brixham), George died on 3rd of October 1917 at the age of 41.George was born at Weston, Suffolk, in 1876, a son of George and Eleanor Waters. George married Sarah Kate Reeve at Lowestoft in 1896 and they lived at 3 Hervey Street. In 1901 they were living at Raglan Cottages, 5 Raglan Street. By 1911 their home was at 1 Gertrude Cottages, Kendal Road, Lowestoft, and later Sarah lived at 518 London Road, South Lowestoft.In 1911 George was at Padstow and was the Mate on the Lowestoft trawler Picotee (LT 252). George the Third Hand on the trawler Rupee. On 3 October 1917 the Rupee was 12 miles north of Lundy when captured by a German submarine which proceeded to sink the trawler, by gunfire. Four of the crew, including George, were killed. 

A Private with the 16th Battalion, James died on 5th of September 1918 aged 19. James was born at Lowestoft in 1899, a son of James and Lavinia Waters. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church on 5 May 1899, and his family lived at 223 Clapham Road. By 1901 his family were living at 26 Reeve Street and this was James’ home for the rest of his life.James enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Royal Warwickshire Regiment, service number 38291, and was posted to the 16th Battalion in France. On 2 September 1918 the 16th Battalion took part in a brigade attack at Beugny. The attack began at 5.20 a.m. and soon came under machine-gun fire from the flanks. They planned a second push at 11 a.m. but artillery fire made this impossible. During the evening some units had to withdraw due to high casualty rates and the Germans retaliated with gas shells. On that day James received gunshot wounds to his back and right thigh and was taken to 14 Field Ambulance before being transferred to a Casualty Clearing Station where he died of wounds. 

A Private with the 4th Battalion, Joffre died on 14th of June 1943 aged 26. Joffre was born at Lowestoft on 7 October 1916, a son of Thomas and Alice Waters. In 1921 his family lived at 2 Love Road and by 1939 their home was at 75 Love Road. In 1939 Joffre married Dororthy Ellen Maud Benton, this was registered in the Lothingland district. Dorothy came from Padstow, Cornwall.In autumn 1939 the 4th Battalion Suffolk Regiment was on guard duty in the Lowestoft area and from July to September 1940 had various local deployments, including guarding Great Yarmouth. The Battalion then moved to Bedfordshire and then Scotland until April 1941. Next the Battalion moved to Bury, Lancashire, and Hereford, before embarking on the S.S. Andes at Liverpool and sailing for Halifax, Nov Scotia. The Battalion changed ship, to the American liner Wakefield, and sailed for Trinidad and then Cape Town, arriving on 9 December 1941. The Battalion was given three days shore leave.The Battalion was part of 54 Brigade in the 18th (East Anglian) Division. With the Japanese entry into the war the Battalion was now allocated to the Far East and sailed for India, arriving on 5 January 1942. The Battalion had three weeks of training before embarking at Bombay and sailing for Singapore, arriving on 29 January 1942. The Battalion had orders to defend the Golf Course and then fell back to defend the perimeter before the Singapore garrison was forced to surrender on 15 February 1942. Ninety men of the Battalion were killed, or died of wounds, in the defence of Singapore and 865 were taken prisoner.      Joffre was attached to the 18th Division Provost Company when he was captured at Singapore on 15 February 1942. He was taken to Thailand to work on the Burma Railway and was being held at Kannyo Number 1 Camp when he died from malaria. In 1946 Joffre was re-buried Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.

A Trimmer with H.M. Trawler Yucca, John died on 24th of May 1918 at the age of 36.John was born at Weston, Beccles, Suffolk, in 1882, a son of Robert and Susan Waters. He was baptised at Saint Peter's Church, Weston, on 25 June 1882. In 1891 his family lived at Ringsfield Road, Weston. John used several alias': including Alfred and Everett John. Between 1901 and 1911 he was often in court and spent several years in prison, being convicted of stealing, larceny and begging.  John joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 27 March 1916 using his alias Everett John. His home was at 5 Catherine Terrace, Pakefield. On two occasions he was absent without permission, in one case for 28 days. On 11 April 1917 he married Emma temple, the widow of John temple who had died in the loss of the Lord Carnavon in 1914. Their home was at 20 Kimberley Road, Lowestoft. In 1918 John served on the minesweeping trawler Yucca. The Yucca struck a mine, off Lowestoft, and sank with the loss of all seven members of crew. Note: all of his naval records his alias first names, Everett John, and give his date of birth as 18 May 1879. 

A Civilian, Walter died on 12th of May 1943 at the age of 74. Walter was born at Fordham, Colchester, Essex, on 6 August 1868, and is believed to have been the son of George and Emma Waters.On 25 December 1889 Walter married Emma Jane Charlish at Saint Margaret's Church, Lowestoft. Walter was a mariner living at Saint Margaret's Road and Emma lived at 152 High Street. In 1901 they lived at 38 Melbourne Road and Walter was a trawling master. In 1911 they lived at 68 Queens Road and Walter was a master mariner. In 1910 Walter was awarded his certificate of competency as a skipper. On 17 November 1914 he became a Temporary Skipper with the Royal Naval Reserve. He served on the trawler Margate until 1917. Walter was advanced to Chief Skipper on 30 June 1917. Walter was Mentioned in Despatches for his work with the Auxiliary Patrol and minesweeping between 1 January and 30 June 1918 (London Gazette 5 October 1918). In 1917 he served on the trawler Louise Botha and in 1918 on the Isaac Heath. In 1919 Walter was engaged in mine clearance work and from April to November he served on H.M.S. City of Perth. He was demobilised on 20 November 1919.In 1921 Walter and Emma lived at 73 Beresford Road, and Walter was a yacht skipper working for G. Hazel of Thorpe, Norwich. In 1939 they lived at 63 Beresford Road and Walter was a yacht skipper. On 1 September 1939 Walter applied to rejoin the Royal Naval Reserve, but was rejected as 'over-age'. During World War Two, Walter became a firewatcher. He died at Ayers Fish Stores, Whapload Road, during the 'Focke-Wulf Raid'. Walter's son, Ernest, served in the Royal Navy and died in 1917.  

A Deck Hand with Dredger Mercurius (London), Frederick died on 28th of June 1916 at the age of 60.Frederick was born at Ramsgate, Kent, on 19 January 1856, a son of Edmund and Sarah Watson. He was baptised at Saint George’s Church, Ramsgate, on 2 March 1856. In 1861 his family lived at Ramsgate. On 26 February 1878 Frederick married Caroline Elizabeth Goodrum at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft. In 1881 they lived at 2 Raglan Cottages, Lowestoft, and Frederick was a fisherman. By 1891 they were living at 21 Cathcart Street and this was Frederick’s home for the rest of his life.Frederick worked as a trawler fisherman and, at times, was the master of a fishing smack. Frederick joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 30 March 1915, number DA 5334. He served on the trawler Guide Me, but was found to be medically unfit, due to a double inguinal hernia, and discharged on 15 February 1916. On 28 June 1916 the Mercurius was on a voyage from Southampton to Immingham when it struck a mine about three miles south-east of Lowestoft and sank with all hands. Frederick's son, Frederick Samuel Watson, died in 1918 whilst serving with the Canadian Mounted Rifles.

A Private with 7th Canadian Mounted Rifles, Frederick died on 27th of November 1918 at the age of 25. Frederick was born at Lowestoft on 18 August 1893, a son of Frederick James and Caroline Elizabeth Watson. He was baptised at Saint Margaret’s Church, Lowestoft, on 13 September 1893, and his family lived at 21 Cathcart Street, Lowestoft. In 1911 Frederick was a labourer working for a fish curer. By 1915 Frederick was living in Canada. He was working as a labourer when he enlisted in the 7th Canadian Mounted Rifles, at Toronto, on 5 February 1915, and arrived in England later that month. He was taken on strength of the Canadian Cavalry Depot, Canterbury, on 25 April 1915, and the Depot at Shorncliffe, England, on 12 June 1916. He joined the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Reserve Regiment), at Shorncliffe, on 2 July 1916. On 6 July 1917 Frederick was transferred to the Canadian Reserve Cavalry Regiment at Shorncliffe. On 24 July 1916 a medical board determined that Frederick was not going to be fit for overseas service due to chronic suppurative Otitis Media double and, thereafter, was assigned to Base duties. He suffered other medical problems and underwent various periods in hospital:20 May 1917 Canadian Military Hospital, Etchinghill, Folkestone ‘V.D.G.’22 May 1917 Military Hospital, Shorncliffe ‘V.D.G.’12 July 1917 Discharged 19 July 1917 West Cliffe Ear and Eye Hospital, Folkstone. Trachoma - suspected.15 August 1917 West Cliffe Hospital. Chalazions, right eye.3 October 1917 Military Convalescent Hospital, Woodcote Park, Epsom9 October 1917 Convalescent Hospital, Buchy Park. Nephritis.11 November 1917 Discharged to Canadian Reserve Cavalry Depot, ShorncliffeOn 25 November 1918 Frederick was admitted to the Military Hospital, Frensham Hill, seriously will with influenza. He died at the hospital on 27 November. Frederick's father, Frederick James Watson, died in 1916 in the loss of the dredger Mercurius. 

An Acting Regimental Sergeant Major with the Inland Waterways Transport, John died on 15th of May 1918 at the age of 53. John was a son of George and Jean (Jane) Watson. He is believed to have been born at Kintore, near Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, on 20 July 1864. In 1871 his family lived at a cottage in Thorns Forest, and in 1881 they lived at 5, Aberdeen Turnpike, Kintore, and John was a paper mill worker. By 1891 John was working as a stone mason and he lodged at 28 Whitworth Road, Plumstead, London. On 2 August 1898 John married Alice Sparham at Saint John’s Church, Lowestoft. John was working as a stone mason and living at 14 Azof Street, East Greenwich, London, and Alice lived at 14 Tonning Street, Lowestoft. John and Alice have not been traced in either the 1901 or 1911 Census, but, at some point, they went to live with Alice’s sister Florence Pool, and her husband Charles, at 27 Roydene Road, Plumstead. Later Alice returned to Lowestoft and lived with her sister Clara Spoons, and her husband Edward, at 134 High Street. Subsequently Alice lived at 7 Orchard Terrace, London Road. Little is known of John’s military service. He enlisted at Whitehall, London, and joined the Royal Engineers, service number WR/342688. By 1918 he had been promoted to Acting Regimental Sergeant Major and he served with the Inland Waterways Transport. In 1917 the resort of Beachley, near Chepstow, Monmouthshire, was taken over for development as a naval dockyard. By 1918 up to 4,000 men were working at the facility, with some staying at billets at Beachley and others at Sedbury Camp just outside of Chepstow. It seems that John worked at Beachley, but he died at Sedbury from acute arteriosclerosis of cerebral artery aggravated by active service.  

A Chief Engineer Officer with S.S. Larpool (Whitby), Robert died on 2nd of November 1941 aged 50. Robert was born at South Shields on 14 January 1891, a son of Charles John and Mary Ann Watson. In 1891 his family lived at 20 Chichester Road, Westoe, South Shields. Robert was baptised at Saint Michael’s Church, South Westoe, on 11 February 1891. In 1901 Robert’s family lived at 14 Vine Street, South Shields. By 1911 they were living at 10 Talbot Road, Tyne Dock, South Shields, and Ribert was a ship fitter. In 1914 Robert became a freemason. Robert became a marine engineer and by 1918 he was a Chief Engineer with the Merchant Navy. In the 1920s he spent some time working in India.  On 23 January 1922 Robert married Eugenie Gordon at Holy Trinity Church, Barnes. Robert was an engineer and they both gave their address as 148 Castlenau, Barnes. In 1939 their home was at 109 Sussex Road, Lowestoft, and Robert was a marine engineer. During the war Eugenie lived at High Wynds, 97 South Parade, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, but afterwards returned to live at 109 Sussex Road. By October 1941 Robert was the Chief Engineer on the S. S. Larpool. On 28-29 October 1941 the Larpool lost contact with convoy ON-27 because of bad weather. By 2 November the Larpool was about 150 miles southeast of Cape Race and steaming in rough seas and facing strong winds. In the early morning on 2 November German submarine U-208 fired torpedoes which hit the Larpool, despite the bad weather conditions most of the crew were able to make for the lifeboats but it was several days before any of them were rescued. On 43 crew 26, including Robert, lost their lives.    

A Private with the 1st Battalion, George died on 18th of April 1918 at the age of 28. George was born in 1890. Sources state either that he was born at Frettenham or Hasboro, Norfolk. He was a son of George and Rachel Watts. In 1891 his family was living at Stokesby with Herringfleet, and by 1901 they were living at Thorpe next Haddiscoe. In 1911 George lived with his parents at Raveningham and George worked as a farm labourer. Later his parents lived at Crossway Cottages, Blundeston. George was living at King's Lynn when he joined the Army. He enlisted in the Norfolk Regiment, service number 24242, and was posted to the 1st Battalion in France. On 14 April 1918 the 1st Battalion were at Tannay and George served with B Company. The battalion war diary gives no information about what happened to George, but other sources state that he was killed in action. As the battalion were at a rest camp but provided working parties that operated east of Tannay, it seems probable that George was with one of the working parties when he was killed. The war diary records that he was buried on 20 April.  George’s half-brother Walford served with the Dorset Regiment and died in 1917. 

A Private with the 6th Battalion, Walford died on 10th of October 1917 at the age of 32.Walford was born at Hanford, Norfolk, in 1885, a son of George and Susanna Watts. He was baptised at Hainford parish church on 19 April 1885. Walford's mother died, and his father remarried. By 1891 his family was living at Stokesby with Herringfleet, and by 1901 they were living at Thorpe next Haddiscoe and Walford worked as a stockman on a farm (possibly Hall Farm). Later his father and step-mother, Rachel, lived at Crossway Cottages, Blundeston. Walford was living at Bradford when he volunteered to join the Army. He served initially with the Army Service Corps, number M2/045765, and he was in France from 26 May 1915. Subsequently he was transferred to the Dorsetshire Regiment, and posted to the 6th Battalion.On 9 October 1917 the 6th battalion left Prattle Camp and entrained at Proven en route to Elverdinghe and the Dublin Camp. On the night of 9 – 10 October enemy aeroplanes dropped bombs on Dublin Camp and the surrounding area. Two men were killed, and five others wounded.Walford was one of the men killed in the air raid. Walford's half-brother George served with the Norfolk Regiment and died in 1918.

A Private with 13th Bn., Ernest died on 28th of September 1915 at the age of 26. Ernest was born at Carlton Colville in 1890, a son of Benjamin and Rosanna Weavers. He was baptised at Saint Peter’s Church, Carlton Colville, on 29 July 1890, and his family lived at Carlton Colville. A note in the baptism register says ‘Died for England September 26th 1915’.In 1891 his family lived at Bell Corner, Carlton Colville. In 1901 they lived at Mortuway (sic), Carlton Colville. Later his parents lived at Peacock Terrace, Carlton Colville. By 1911 Ernest was a Police Constable with Essex Constabulary and he lived at The Police Station, Springfield Court, Chelmsford. Later he lived at Westcliff. Ernest volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Southend. He joined the Middlesex Regiment and was posted to the 13th Battalion. He arrived in France with the Battalion on 2 September 1915. Between 25 and 29 September the 13th Battalion were involved in the Battle of Loos. The Battalion War Diary (edited) has:25 September The Battalion received orders to march about 10 a.m. and marched east along the Vermelles Road . . . On arrival about 12 noon west of Sailly-la-Bourse the battalion was diverted to the left and formed up west of a small stream west of Vermelles . . . soon after 4 p.m. instructions were received to move up east of Vermelles, which was done in gathering darkness. The battalion assembled near the railway at the west end of a long communication trench (Barts Alley) leading from the original fire trenches, some ¾ mile to the front. Here the battalion for the first time came under fire (shells and rifle fire). About 11 p.m. the battalion advanced (in artillery formation) over the open and occupied trenches (Old British Support line) which were in many places full of water . . . Fosse No 8 de Bethune, and the Hohenzollern Redoubt were to the left front and Hulluch Quarries, to their front and Loos to the right front. Shell fire and frequent bursts of rifle fire continued all night.26 SeptemberAbout 3 a.m. . . . the Adjutant and 2 Companies A and D, proceeded across the open to the left front towards the “Slag Heap” of No 8 Fosse. 1 platoon of B Company accompanied the Brigadier General as escort. From this time this party of the battalion were continuously under heavy shell and rifle fire, repeated attacks being made by the Germans on the trenches that they held, and by skilful use of machine guns and counter attacks by bombers, they successfully held their own, although suffering several casualties from the enemy’s fire, and feeling severely the want of food and water.NOTE: At this point the battalion was divided into two and each and slightly different experiences in the battleThe following details relate to A and D Companies:26 – 29 SeptemberA Company was on the left, occupied a position of the trench going to the right facing the Slag Heap, and a portion of “slag alley” (a communication trench on the south-west side of the slag heap Fosse No 8). D Company was on the right joining up with the 2nd Queens facing Haimes Church. Heavy fighting on the left of the line . . the position of the two Companies of the Battalion very . precarious ., but it held on to its ground until relieved on the morning of the 29th, when the party numbering about 170 all ranks marched back to Beuvry, and thence by train to Lillers and marched to Lambres where they rejoined the remainder of the Battalion, in billets, about 11 a.m. on Thursday the 30th.The following details relate to B and C Companies:  After the two companies had gone to the advanced trenches on the Sunday morning [26 September] the other Companies (B & C) were extended to occupy the length of trenches previously held by the battalion. About 2 p.m. on Sunday afternoon most of them moved to the trenches 100 yards or so in front owing to shell fire, which had found out the exact range of the occupied trenches.27 September A similar further change had to be made on the Monday afternoon owing to the same cause. A heavy attack was made about 5 p.m. by the Germans on the left, but was repulsed by men of various regiments . . . Throughout Monday night those attacks were constantly repeated, but in every case were successfully met.28 September About 8 a.m. battalion was relieved and received orders to withdraw which it did by Barts Alley. After a short rest, it marched through Vermelles to Sailly-la-Bourse, where it was visited by Major General Sir J. Ramsay Commander of 24th Division, who warmly congratulated the battalion on the work it had done. We do not know which company Ernest served with but, given the fact that he was killed in action on 28 September, it is probable that he served with A or D Company. The Battalion’s losses for the period 25 to 29 September were:Officers: wounded 7; wounded and prisoner of war 1; missing 1Other Ranks: killed 13; missing believed killed 11; missing 12; missing and prisoner of war 1; wounded 119. For a comprehensive overview of the activities of the 13th Battalion see: 13th Middlesex Regt. - WW1 - War Diary | Transcription of the battalion war diary and other info (wordpress.com)A letter from Private V. Atterby of the 13th Middlesex Regiment, published in the Southend Standard of 21 October 1915, page 5, mentions Ernest:We have been relieved from the trenches and all of us came out of action together. There were only a few who did not, and amongst them was Private Weavers, who, I see, is in your Roll of Honour. He belonged to our regiment and I knew him very well, and feel deeply sorry for his relatives. He was a fine fellow, and the last time I saw him was just before we went into the trenches which we so splendidly held.  

A Sergeant (Pilot) with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Mervyn died on 26th November 1941 aged 25.Mervyn was born at Kessingland on 28 August 1916, a son of William Walter and Mildred Weavers. He was baptised at Saint Edmund’s Church, Kessingland, on 24 September 1916 and his family lived at 2 Poplar Terrace, Kessingland. By 1939 Mervyn’s parents were living at Bethel Drive, The Beach, Kessingland. In 1939 Mervyn married Clara Ann Nightingale. This was registered in the Greenwich district and Mervyn was living at Sydenham at the time. By 1941 their home was at 1 Poplar Terrace, Kessingland. Mervyn enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve after May 1940. By November 1941 he was a Pilot with 214 Squadron. Mervyn was a member of the crew of a Wellington II bomber, number Z8373, that took off from Stradishall, on a bombing raid on Emden, Germany. The aircraft had engine trouble and had to return. Contact was lost when they were about eighty miles from the English coast. A search and rescue operation failed to find the aircraft and all of the crew were presumed to have died. Another member of the crew was Harold Cooper who also came from Lowestoft.  See No. 214 (FMS) Squadron RAF - Personnel - Personnel C (214squadron.org.uk)WITH THANKS TO: Malcolm Barrass

A Private with the 7th Battalion, Sam died on 28th of April 1917 at the age of 36. Sam was born at Oulton on 14 July 1880, a son of Henry and Hannah Websdale. He was baptised at Saint Michael’s Church, Oulton, on 31 May 1885, and his family lived at Oulton. In 1891 his family lived at Church Road, Oulton, and by 1901 at 1 Margarets Cottages, Moyes Road, Oulton, and Sam worked as a bricklayer’s labourer. This was still the family home in 1911 when Sam was still a bricklayer’s labourer. Sam volunteered and enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Suffolk Regiment, service number 15859, and was posted to the 9th Battalion, arriving in France, with the battalion, on 31 August 1915. Samuel was wounded and his name appears in the War Office Daily List of 11 October 1916. Subsequently he was posted to the 7th Battalion and by April 1917 was a member of D Company.Colonel Murphy’s ‘The History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927’ has the following account of the 7th Battalion’s part in the attack on the front between the Scarpe and Monchy (near Arras), known as the Battle of Arleux, on 28 April 1917, pages 233-4:The battalion, going over the top at 4.35 a.m. to attack the new Blue Line, passed through the 5th Royal Berkshire Regiment, who had captured Bayonet trench and also some 150 yards of Rifle trench. They immediately came under a most devastating machine-gun fire from Rouex, which the troops operating on the north side of the river had not yet taken, and suffered very heavy losses. Portions of the various companies managed to reach the first objective but were unable to gain further ground. All the officers except the colonel and the adjutant have been killed or wounded, these small parties returned to the Black Line as soon as it grew dark and at 1 a.m. the battalion, now reduced to 190 effective men, withdrew to the support line. The battalion’s casualties were:Officers three killed, one died of wounds, four woundedOther ranks: 89 killed and an unknown number wounded or missingSam was reported missing on 28 April and later it was presumed that he had been killed in action that day. Note: his first name was Sam, not Samuel, as shown in some records.