William George Robbens

A Private with 6th Bn., William died on 18th of September 1918 at the age of 32. 

William was born at Lowestoft on 17 August 1886, a son of James and Louisa Maria Robbens. On 10 September 1886 he was baptised at Saint John's Church, Lowestoft, and his family lived at 40 Clemence Street. In 1891 his family lived at 42 Clemence Street, Lowestoft. By 1901 they were living at 13 Sandringham Road, and William was a cycle maker's apprentice. In 1911 they lived at 64 Tonning Street, Lowestoft, and William was a fish worker/curer. 

Note: in some sources his surname is given as Robbins. 

In 1916 William married Gertrude May Hall of 41 Suffolk Street, Norwich. Gertrude died in 1920. 

William enlisted in the Army at Lowestoft. He joined the Army Service Corps, service number T/26551, and went to France. Late he was transferred to the Northamptonshire Regiment, service number 58312, and was posted to the 6th Battalion.  

On 17 September 1918 the 6th Battalion were in positions at the railway cutting east of St. Emile. On the 18th the Battalion took part in an attack on Ronnsoy. During the attack it was difficult for the companies to keep direction and attacking companies were in position before part of the barrage lifted. The barrage was not particularly dense and did not knock out a number of machine-guns. During the night the Battalion made several unsuccessful attempts to take May Copse.  

Two officers and 37 men, including William, were killed in the attack.

William was buried at map reference D.23.c.5.5. and later reburied at Peronne Communal Cemetery Extension.