1st Jul 1916. Charge Against an “Enemy Alien” Dismissed

CHARGE AGAINST AN “ ENEMY ALIEN ” DISMISSED.— Arthur E A Bierderman, canvasser, was charged with that he, being an alien enemy, did furnish false particulars for the purposes of registration in contravention of the Aliens’ Restriction (Consolidation) Order, 1916, at Rugby, on June 23rd.—Mr Eaden appeared, for the defendant, and pleaded not guilty.—P.S Ghent stated that on June 22nd defendant registered himself at the Police Station as a German, and signed the register produced, and gave an address in Bath Street. He returned later, and said he was staying at 138 Bath Street. On June 24th he called again, and was granted a travelling permit. Subsequently witness received from Mrs Smith, 138 Bath Street, the registration form produced. On that form defendant had written “ Australia,” and there was no mention of the fact that he was a German. Defendant was subsequently arrested at Banbury. He was charged with giving false information; and, in reply, he said, “ I feel relieved that that is all.”—By Mr Baden : In his identity book defendant had entered his nationality as “ Australia ” ; but someone had crossed that out, and substituted the word “ German.”—Mr Eaden asked what the nationality was of a man born in a British colony of a German parent naturalised in that colony ?—Witness said he thought he would be British, but defendant had to prove this.—Mr Wise pointed out that defendant’s father was naturalised after defendant was born.—P.S Ghent said the man was a “ German under protest,” and he did not like being called one. He added that when he asked defendant what has nationality was he said, the police said he was a German, but he believed he was an Australian. The man said unfortunately he had nothing to prove that he was born in Australia.—Supt Clarke said the man always travelled as a German, and he called at the Police Station and informed them that he was a German. He afterwards deceived his landlady by saying that he was an Australian.—Mr Baden pointed out that the defendant’s father and mother were unquestionably German, and had lived there. Defendant’s elder brother was born while they lived in Germany, and after this they went to Australia, where defendant was born. He was brought up at an English school, and was afterwards employed by a Mining Company in Australia. He lived in Australia 36 years, and during that time his father became naturalised, and his mother also became English automatically. Defendant and his brother, subsequently came to England, and as there was no question that the latter was a German, he became naturalised. There was no necessity for this in defendant’s case, because, as he was born in a British colony, he had the opportunity of adopting which country he would become a citizen of when he came of age, and he then chose to become an Australian. He had lost his birth certificate, and when he was before the Wandsworth police they insisted upon registering him as a German. He had never been to Germany, nor had he any German connections. He submitted that the man had only committed a technical offence, and if the Bench wished to adjourn the case defendant’s brother, who was the secretary of a large Insurance Company in London, could attend and give evidence to the effect that he was born in Australia.—The Chairman said defendant had committed a technical offence. He was in his present unfortunate position because he had lost his birth certificate, but they believed that he was an Australian, and they would dismiss the case. They thought the police did quite right in bringing the case forward.

PROGRESS OF THE WAR.

A message from the British Headquarters, sent on Thursday night, states that activity continues to increase along the whole of the British front.

The Russians have had another victory in the south. On a front of about 25 miles, east of Kolomea, they have defeated the Austrians, taking prisoners 221 officers and 10,285 men.

Sir Roger Casement was found guilty of high treason on Thursday, and the Lord Chief Justice pronounced upon him sentence of death by hanging.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

Official intimation has been received by Mr and Mrs D Conopo, of Kilsby, that their son, Stoker Conopo, went down with H.M.S Queen Mary in the Battle of Jutland on May 31st. Stoker Conopo, who was 26 years of age, joined the Navy four years ago, and visited his parents on leave in March last.

Gunner F Bosworth, D Battery, 241st (S.M Brigade) R.F.A, an Old Murrayian, was mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig’s last despatch. In a letter to his old schoolmaster, Mr W T Coles Hodges, he says :— “ I am a telephonist in our Battery, and in this work we have many opportunities of taking part in some of the exciting incidents of this War, and it is in these little stunts that they have evidently thought me worth mentioning.”

Miss F E Knight, who was trained at the Hospital of St Cross, Rugby, was mentioned in the list of the King’s Birthday Honours, and has been awarded the decoration of the Royal Red Cross. Miss Knight joined the Territorial Nursing Force in 1914, and is at present working in Brighton.

Lance-Corpl J Jordan, R.F.A, son of Mr H J Jordan, railway inspector, of 84 Abbey Street, who has been missing for some time, is now reported to have been taken prisoner at Kut. He was an old 1st Rugby Co Boys’ Brigade member.

Mr W Seaton, of 134 Grosvenor Road, has received news that his son, Gunner Harry Seaton, of the Rugby Howitzer Battery, has been severely wounded in the head. Gunner Seaton is the secretary of the Old Murrayians’ F.C, and is well known in local football circles.

RUGBY FOOTBALLER WOUNDED.

The list of casualties published on Wednesday includes the following men from this district who have been wounded :—Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry : Lance-Sergt F.G Judge and Sergt E Watts, Rugby. F G Judge played for Rugby F.C. He was a very useful forward, and showed great promise. Formerly he was vice-captain of the Junior XV. His home is at the Old Station.

Other local casualties reported in recent lists are :—

Wounded: Lance-Corpl J Faichnie, Oxon and Bucks L.I (B.T.H Foundry) ; Rifleman B Banbrook, Rifle Brigade ; Trooper R Goodfellow, Hussars. Taken prisoner at Kut : Corpl F C Jordan, R.F.A.

ANOTHER PRISONER OF WAR.

Mr W C Hitchcox, of 96 Abbey Street, has received a postcard from his son, Sergt Bernard Geo Hitchcox, stating that he is a prisoner of war in Germany. The postcard is dated June 10th, and as a field card was received from him dated June 6th, he must have fallen into the hands of the enemy between those dates. Sergt Hitchcox belongs to the 2nd Canadian Contingent. A younger brother (Pte Clifford Hitchcox, of the same contingent) was killed in action in August last. Both were Old Murrayians.

OLD MURRAYIAN AWARDED THE D.C.M.

Rugbeians in general, and Old Murrayians in particular, will be interested to hear that Bomb W K Freeman, 73rd Battery, 5th Brigade R.F.A, son of Mrs Freeman, 6 Lancaster Road, has been awarded the D.C.M for “ Conspicuous gallantry. When some men were wounded in the town by the enemy’s fire, he took the medical haversack, although telegraphist, and rendered every assistance under heavy fire. Later, when himself wounded, he went to two dressing stations to get stretchers. He had previously displayed great bravery.” Bomb Freeman has also been awarded a French Military decoration.

THE LATE MR. JIM HOWKINS.

At Monday’s meeting of the Rugby Board of Guardians touching reference was made to the loss sustained by Mr G F Howkins, of Crick (a member of the Board), in the sad death of one of his soldier sons, reported in the Advertiser last week.

At Rugby Cattle Market (where Mr Jim Howkins for several years sold the sheep for Messrs Howkins & Sons) the buyers, after hearing of the sad news, proceeded to bid for the next few lots with their hats off to his memory. They also sent Mr and Mrs Howkins a letter of sympathy, which about 40 or more signed.

A memorial service was conducted by the Rev W C Roberts at Crick Parish Church on Sunday afternoon. A good number of Lance-Corpl Howkins’s friends from Rugby, Long Buckby, Murcott, West Haddon, and Crick attended. Suitable hymns were used, and the service was of a solemn and impressive character.

ANOTHER BARBY MAN GIVES HIS LIFE FOR HIS COUNTRY.

William Elkington, a driver in the R.H.A, was killed in action on June 17th. Mr Elkington received the following letter :-

“ I regret to say-your son Will has passed away to-day. We have had a terrible day to-day ; we have got four or five wounded. Poor little Will was one of the unlucky ones, and got a fatal hit with a bursting shell. He was riding his horse at the time ; his horse was killed outright. We (his comrades) had the care of burying him, and I can assure you he was buried in the very best way. He is lying in a soldier’s grave behind the firing lines. We shall all miss him very much ; he was such a jolly fellow. He died doing his duty for his King and country; he was a thorough soldier all through.”

On Sunday a memorial service was held in St Mary’s Church, Barby. There was, of course, a large congregation, including eight soldiers, who came over from the Daventry Hospital. Special hymns and psalms were sung, and the lesson from the Burial Service was read. The Rector (Rev R S Mitchison) preached from Rev iv 1, “ Behold a door was open in heaven.” He said they must look on all the pain, sorrow, and anxiety which came to us through this terrible War as warnings from God to make us think less of this world and more of the Heavenly Father. Another of our brave man had gone. Before he left,.after his last leave, he attended many of the services in the church ; he returned thanks to God for his life. He attended the Intercession service ; he partook of the Holy Communion ; he received the Church’s Blessing before he went in the little service all take part in before they go to the Front. Now they would see him no more on this earth, but he left behind him a good example.

WOMEN FARM WORKERS.

In many parts of the country there appears to exist a suspicion that, if women register their names for farm work, they may be subjected to some form of compulsory service.

The War Office and the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries desire to assure all women who are engaged in work on the land, or who may be willing to undertake such work, that the registration of their names for that purpose will in no way be used to compel them to undertake either agricultural or any other form of work. Such work is entirely voluntary. In no case will they be asked or expected to work on farms outside their own neighbourhood unless they are willing to do so. But it is necessary, in order that the most efficient use may be made of their services, to have a list of the names and addresses of women who are prepared in the emergency to undertake work in the place of the men who are fighting in the trenches. As there is a great need for the services of patriotic women who are willing to assist in the home production of food, it is hoped that all women who can see their way to offer their services, either whole or part time, will at once have their names registered at the local Labour Exchange or by the village Registrar.

RUGBY CASES AT COVENTRY MUNITIONS COURT.

The following cases were dealt with on Friday last week by Coventry Munitions Tribunal

Annie and Mary Sleath, Clifton, v Rugby Lamp Co, Ltd.—This was a complaint in each case of withholding certificate.—Certificates were refused.

W W Wilson. 94 Holyhead Road, v Willans & Robinson, Ltd.—Similar complaint.-The case was struck out.

The cases heard at Coventry Munitions Tribunal on Tuesday included the following :—

Joseph Thomas Lindsell, Rugby, v Willans & Robinson, Rugby.—This was a complaint of withholding certificate. He said he wished to go back to his home at Stoke, where his mother lived, she being a widow and he being an only child. He said he was told there was plenty of work in the Stoke district.—The Chairman suggested that a man at Stoke who wanted to come to Rugby might be exchanged for Lindsell. The case was adjourned for four weeks to see if an exchange could be effected.

James Henry Ball, Rugby, v B.T.H, Rugby.—This was a complaint of withholding certificate. He said he was doing the work of a millwright, though engaged as an assistant millwright, but was refused the district rate. The firm said he was a skilled labourer. It was stated that the man had been offered a fully qualified situation, and that the A.S.E was supporting him. The certificate was granted. It was intimated that an appeal might be lodged.

B.T.H Co, Rugby, v F Dexter, Rugby.—This was a complaint of time losing. He said he was ill, but did not inform the firm.—He was fined 40s.

B.T.H Co v W J Price, Rugby.—Complaint of being absent without leave. He pleaded illness.—Fined 25s.

B.T.H Co v D Conopo, Kilsby.—Similar complaint. He said he walked six miles to his work every morning, and sometimes walked back to his home. It transpired that the man lost his son, who was on the Queen Mary, and the firm said they did not know that, and would not press the case under the circumstances.—The case was withdrawn.

Two other employees of the same firm, J A Grimes, 18 Hunter Street, Rugby, and Alfred Day, 3 Bridge Street, Rugby, were also before the Court for breach of rules.—Day was fined 10s, and the case against Grimes dismissed with a caution.

ABSENTEES.—At- Rugby Police Court on Thursday, before T A Wise, Esq, two young Hillmorton soldiers, Alfred Giddings (3rd Royal Berks) and John Saddler (Durham Light Infantry), pleaded guilty to being absentees from their units, and were remanded to await an escort.

IN MEMORIAM.

ASTILL.—In loving remembrance of Pte. Herbert Wm. Astill, 10744, Oxon and Bucks L.I., stretcher bearer, who died of wounds, June 29, 1915.—Deeply mourned by his widowed MOTHER.

COOMBES.—In loving memory of my dear husband, Pte. Arthur Coombes, who died of wounds in King George’s Hospital, London, June 30, 1915.
“ Farewell, dear wife, my life is past ;
You loved me dearly to the last.
Grieve not for me, but to prepare
For heaven be your greatest care.”
Also my dear son Arthur, who died February 26,1915.
—From loving WIFE and MOTHER.

LEESON.—Previously reported missing, now killed in action on the 25th of September, 1915, Sergt Fred Leeson (Bob), Oxford and Bucks L.I., dearly loved second son of Mr. and Mrs. Leeson, 70 Hartington Road, Leicester (late of Hunter Street, Rugby), aged 23 years.—“ O for the touch of a vanished hand and the sound of a voice that is still.”

 

24th Jun 1916. Damage to Crops by Aircraft

DAMAGE TO CROPS BY AIRCRAFT.

The Board of Agriculture and Fisheries desire to call the attention of farmers to the possibility of loss of, or damage to, growing crops by hostile aircraft.

No liability can be accepted by the Government, and no claim can be entertained in respect of damage to property by aircraft or bombardment unless the property has been insured under the Government scheme, particulars of which can be obtained at any Post Office or from any Fire Insurance Company.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

Roland R Tait, of the firm of Messrs Tait, Sons, & Pallant, and a well-known local footballer and cricketer, has enlisted in the 7th Worcesters, and has gone to headquarters this week.

Second-Lieut E G Passmore, Northampton Regiment (son of Mr S A Passmore, of Ashby St Ledgers), was wounded in France on June 18th.

Capt Viscount Feilding, D.S.O, was “ mentioned ” for the second time in the last despatches, and was promoted to Brevet Major in the last list of honours. He has for some months been on the staff of the Second Division in France as D.A.A, Q.M.G, having previously done some 11 months in the trenches with the Third Battalion Coldstream Guards.

Lieut Hon Henry S Feilding has been transferred to the Coldstream Guards, and has how joined the depot at Windsor. He served till about a year ago in the K.E.H, and went to France with them in May 1915, and about July was taken as A.D.C by General Horne, R.A (of East Haddon), commanding the Second Division, and went to Egypt with him in December, 1915, when General Horne was promoted to Lieutenant General to command an Army Corps, and recently returned to France, when the General was appointed to command an Army Corps there. Lieut Feilding has now resigned A.D.C, and transferred as described.

Engine-room Artificer Stanley Liddington, who took part in the Battle of Jutland, recently visited Murray School, where he was formerly a pupil. Three other Old Murrayians—W L Holmes, C Cooper, and W Clarke—also went through the battle, and the former has sent a very interesting letter to his old schoolmaster.

L G Colbeck, the old Cambridge Cricket Blue—formerly a Master at Rugby School—is now in training with the O.T Corps (Artillery) at Topsham, near Exeter.

Lieut J A Hattrell, Royal Warwicks, who has been in charge of the Registration Department of the Rugby Recruiting Office for the past six months, leaves the district this week. Immediately upon war being declared, Lieut Hattrell, who was in the legal profession in Coventry, joined the local Territorial Battalion of the Loyal Warwicks. Lieut Hattrell is the son of the Rev G P Hattrell, Free Church Minister, formerly of Stretton-under-Fosse, and now of Welford.

Second-Lieut William Roy Elphick (O.R), Indian Infantry, who died from cholera on June 7th, was born in 1894, and gazetted in August, 1914. He was the eldest son of the late Major. H W Elphick, L.M.S, and Mrs Elphick, of 82 Hereford Road, Bayswater. When at the School deceased got his colours for football, and also played with the XI, at cricket, being a particularly good bowler. He also assisted the town clubs in both branches of sport.

Lady Craven, of Combe Abbey, has just given, through Mr Chandler (head gardener), all the men on the estate 2s a week increase of wages. This is the third advance the men have had since the War began.

Mrs Frankton, of 20 Lawford Road, Rugby has received a letter from the War Office, stating that her husband, Pte Walter Fredk Frankton, 3rd Grenadier Guards, who has been missing since the Battle of Loos, must now be presumed to have been killed in September last. Pte Frankton, who before the war was employed by the Public Health Committee of the Urban District Council, enlisted in January, 1915, and was at the front about two months before his death. He a native of Rugby, and was educated at the Wesleyan School.

DEATH OF MR JAMES F HOWKINS.

We much regret to record the death from enteric fever of Mr James F Howkins, second son of Mr and Mrs Fred Howkins, of Crick, which occurred last Saturday at Alexandria. The deceased, who was 27 years of age, served his articles with Messrs Howkins & Sons, auctioneers and estate agents of this town, with whom he was engaged until last August, when he joined the Honourable Artillery Company. As an auctioneer deceased was well known especially in Rugby Cattle Market. He was a very hard worker, and possessed first-class business capabilities. He was a Fellow of the Auctioneers and Estate Agents Institute, and a member of the Midland Counties Valuers Association. His loss will be very greatly felt by all those who knew him, and especially at Crick, where he was a great favourite. The deceased has two brothers, and both are now serving abroad-the younger with the Northants Yeomanry, and the elder with the Royal Engineers.

LEAMINGTON HASTINGS.

ROLL OF HONOUR.—Information has been received that Pte Bertie John Cleaver, of Hill, has died of disease in Mesopotamia. He was 19 years of age, and with his brother Archie joined the 19th Hussars soon after war broke out, but both were transferred to the Gloucester Regiment, with which he was serving at the time of his death. The father of deceased, an old soldier, is serving in the Warwickshire Regiment at Maidenhead, and his brother, Sergt Wm Cleaver, has been in France since the War commenced.

BRANDON.

WOUNDED.—Rifleman Bert Banbrook, of the Rifle Brigade, son of Mr and Mrs Reuben Banbrook, has been wounded in the thigh, and is now making satisfactory progress at Epsom Hospital.—Mr and Mrs E W Ireson received news on Sunday that their elder son had been wounded. He was hit by shrapnel in the head, but luckily his steel helmet saved his life. He came over from Saskatoon, Canada, with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, and was one of those who succeeded in taking trenches from the Germans last week. Before proceeding to Canada he was for several years a clerk in Lloyds Bank, Rugby.

BOURTON-ON-DUNSMORE.

PRIVATE GOUGH KILLED.—News was received last week that Pte J Gough, Royal Warwickshire Regiment, had been killed in action on June 2nd. Deceased joined the Army in December, 1914, and was sent to France the following July, where he had been for ten months. He was native of Church Stretton, but for some years had lived at Bourton, where he had gained the respect of all who knew him. A memorial service was held in Bourton Church on Sunday.

DISTRICT APPEALS’ TRIBUNAL.

Held at the Benn Buildings, Rugby, on Friday last week. Present: Messrs M K Pridmore (chairman), W Johnson, jun, P G Loveitt, and K Rotherham. Agricultural representative: Mr J E Cox. Military representative: Mr M E T Wratislaw.

ESTATE CARPENTER SECURES A TEMPORARY EXEMPTION.

Mr Lupton Reddish supported the appeal of Walter, Congreve, estate carpenter for Capt Henry Boughton-Leigh, Brownsover Hall. The local Tribunal held that he could be replaced by someone not eligible for military service.—The Chairman said it was important, if the man was engaged on the work described, that he Should be retained to keep the farms going, and temporary exemption, to September 30th was granted.

MR W ELLIOTT’S BOTTLING BUSINESS.

The Military appealed against the temporary exemption granted to Chas John Elliott, 8 Vicarage Road, Rugby, manager of a mineral water and bottling business.—Mr Wratislaw said there had been no attempt to get a substitute, and appellant had been passed for general service at home or abroad.—Given till August 1st, with no further extension.

MESSRS FOSTER & DICKSEE’S SECRETARY.

Mr Sidney J Dicksee appealed on behalf of Herbert Watson, builder’s clerk and acting secretary to Messrs Foster & Dicksee, living at 20 Arnold Street, Rugby. He pointed out that six members of the clerical staff had joined the Army, and that to carry on the work of acting secretary required great experience.—Appeal dismissed, but given till September 1st.

BADLY ADVISED BY FRIENDS.

Herbert Southby Vowles, commercial traveller, 279 Clifton Road, Rugby, who had been allowed till July 1st by the local Tribunal, asked for three months’ postponement to settle up his affairs.—Mr Eaden said appellant was anxious to get into the Army. He was advised by his friends if he asked the Tribunal for one month’s exemption they would be generous, and possibly give him more (laughter). He should have asked for a little more than he expected to get.—The Chairman : Is that what he is doing now ? (laughter).—Allowed till September 15th.

 

A NOURISHING ARTICLE.

Appealing for his son, Mr Bromwich, milk producer and retailer, of Newton, said milk was a most nourishing article of food and drink combined.-Given to August 1st and told it was doubtful if any further extension would be allowed.

BRANDON ESTATE HAND.

A final temporary exemption till August 1st was given to Harry Giles, estate hand, 6 Bridget Street, New Bilton, appealed for by T Hirons, of Brandon.

WOMEN FARM WORKERS CRITICISED.

Frank Chester, Moorland Cottage, Newbold, was given till August 1st, the Tribunal being of opinion that on the face of it his single brother Anthony, now exempted as a shepherd, ought to go into the Army.— The question of women labour was raised, and appellant said they had employed four women on the farm, but he did not think they would stay.-Mr Worthington said the experience of one farmer was that of two women he employed at hoeing one left at 12 o’clock the first day ; the other stayed till 4 p.m, and never came again.

DISSATISFIED WITH HIS JOB.—At Coventry Munitions Tribunal on Monday a fine of 10s was imposed upon Fred Hanks, 2 Russell Street, Rugby, for losing time at Willans & Robinsons. He stated that he wanted his discharge to get into the Army. His earnings were only 26s 6d a week, and he was dissatisfied. The Chairman suggested that the firm might give the man an advance so that he might be more satisfied with his job.

ABSENTEES UNDER THE GROUP SYSTEM AND Military Service Acts, 1916.

LIST OF ABSENTEES FROM THE RUGBY SUB-AREA UNDER THE FIRST MILITARY SERVICE ACT, 1916.

The following are their last-known addresses :—

20. W. West, 5 James Street, Rugby, age 20.
21. A. Oldroyd, 41 Newbold Road, Rugby, age 25.
22. G. Hodge, 30 Abbey Street, Rugby, age 26.
23. W. Barnett, 176 Murray Road, Rugby, age 28.
24. Pickles, Railway Hotel, Rugby, age 28.
25. Smith, 18 Gas Street, Rugby, age 29.
26. Hewitt, “ Zotha House,” Park Road, Rugby age 30.
27. W. Walker, 37 Wood Street, Rugby, age 30.
28. G. Smith, c/o Punter, Clifton Road, Rugby, age 33.
29. Owen, 6 Drury Lane, Rugby, age 36.
30. Ross, Spring Hill, Rugby, age 18.
31. Jackson, White Lion, Warwick Street, Rugby, age 38.
32. Francis [or Heeney], 186 Murray Road, Rugby, age 29.
33. Bartlett, 23 Graham Road, Rugby, age 18.
34. Twywood, 17 Abbey Street, Rugby, age 38.
35. Widdell, 48 Bilton Hill, near Rugby, age 32.
36. A. Lines, Bilton, age 33.
37. P. Coleman, 16 Victoria Avenue, New Bilton, age 28.
38. H. Cox, 72 Lawford Road, New Bilton, age 18.
39. W. Ellerton, Bridget Street, New Bilton, age 24.
40. E. Capewell, Wharf Farm, Hillmorton, age 34.
41. F. Flowers, 18 Vicarage Hill, Clifton, age 21.
42. J. Ireton, Deana Lodge, Kineton, age 19.
43. T. Tuckey, Post Office Lane, Long Itchington, age 25.
44. J. Barnes, Kington Farm, Lighthorne, age 28.
45. J. Thomicroft, Napton-on-the-Hill, age 18.
46. Cooper, Radford, age 39.
47. Field, Mount Pleasant, Stockton, age 27.
48. Ansill, Tysoe, Warwick, age 29.

LIST OF ABSENTEES FROM THE RUGBY SUB-AREA UNDER THE GROUP SYSTEM.

The following are their last-known addresses:—

1. Malin, 89 Murray Road, Rugby, age 33, married.
2. R. Walker, 11 Union Street, Rugby, age 27, single.
3. Mitchell, 26 Northcote Road, Rugby, age 35, married.
4. H. Williams, 15 Park Road, Rugby, age 34, single.
5. Partridge, 76 Windsor Street, Rugby, age 18, single.
6. L. Smith, 7 Lodge Road, Rugby, age 29, married.
7. Slater, 47 Wood Street, Rugby, age 35, married.
8. Kennard, Wolston Grange Cottages, Old Bilton, age 23, single.
9. A. Cole, 13 Jubilee Street, New Bilton, age 26, married.
10. R. Macgregor, May Cottage, Newton, age 20, single.
11. E. Fruce, 17 Boughton Road, Brownsover, age 26 married.

The Public are invited to give all the assistance in their power to the Military Authorities by giving any INFORMATION in their possession which they consider would assist in the tracing of these absentees.

The Information should be given or sent to the

RECRUITING OFFICER, DRILL HALL, RUGBY.

The names of all giving information will be regarded as strictly
F. F. JOHNSTONE, LiEUT.-COLONEL,
RECRUITING OFFICER.
June 22nd, 1916.

THANKS FROM A D.C.M HERO.

A letter was received from Sniper A Norman, D.C.M, thanking the Health Committee for their letter of congratulation, which he said he received with great pleasure and a certain amount of pride. To know that their efforts were appreciated by kind friends at home made them all the keener to reach that victory and honour which was fast approaching into sight.—The Chairman : The Council are very pleased to receive that letter from Pte Norman. They are proud of him.

IN MEMORIAM

WALE.—In loving memory of John Wale, 1st Leicesters, who was killed in action near Ypres, June 23,1915.
“ We cannot, Lord, Thy purpose see,
But all is well that’s done by Thee.”
—From his loving WIFE and DAUGHTER.

 

Bale, James William. Died 22nd Jun 1916

James William Bale was born in Rugby in 1891 to James and Emily (nee Payne). He was baptised at St Matthews Church on 22nd Feb. He was the 3^rd of at least 5 children. The family lived at 1 Lagoe Place, but later moved to no. 9. He attended St Matthews school and when he left in 1904 he held a prominent place in the school sports

James joined the 2nd Bn., Royal Welsh Fusiliers (service no. 9339) in about 1907 and at the time of the 1911 census was based at Quetta, India. The regiment was transferred to France when war broke out. By the time of his death he had been “mentioned in despatches” and promoted to the rank of sergeant for bravery in the field.

In March 1916 he was awarded a DCM with the following citation:
“For conspicuous gallantry. When on patrol his officer was wounded. Corporal Bale at once sent his patrol in, went back, and brought his officer under fire which was directed at him. This is the second time he has rescued his officer on patrol.”

It was publicly presented to him in Rugby, when he was home on leave a few weeks before his death.

On 22nd June 1916, 2nd Bn, RWF were serving in the trenches near Givenchy, Pas de Calais, when the Germans exploded a large mine destroying 80 yards of the line. This was followed by an hour long bombardment. There were about 100 casualties. James William Bale was one of them.

He is buried in the Gorre British and Indian Cemetery in France.

 

RUGBY REMEMBERS HIM

17th Jun 1916. The Postponed Bank Holiday

THE POSTPONED BANK HOLIDAY.

The suspension, by Royal Proclamation Whit-Monday as a Bank Holiday to avoid any interruption in the supply of munitions of war was patriotically observed by the public. The sacrifice of outdoor pleasure could not be regarded as serious, as the weather was cold and wet. In conformity with the wishes of the Government there were no holiday facilities on the railways. The weather on Sunday and Monday was characterised by cold winds and rain, which made fires in the house necessary and acceptable. The temperature was about 18 or 20 degrees below the proper level for the date. Such a Whit-Monday has not been experienced since 1891, when snow fell and the thermometer stood at 42 degrees at noon. But that was in May, nearly a month earlier in the season, so that allowing for the difference in time Monday was relatively colder, and it is not surprising that recourse was had to overcoats, furs, and fires—ten days from midsummer ! The bitter conditions affected all the eastern counties, the coast in particular being exceedingly cold, while the west and north were a little better.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

News has been received by Mrs Watts, Benn Street, Rugby, that her husband, Sergt E Watts, of the 6th Oxon and Bucks L.I, has been wounded in France, and is now in hospital at Bradford.

Lieutenant the Hon Henry S Feilding has been transferred from K.E Horse Special Reserve to the Machine Gun Corps.

Lieut J A Maddocks, son of Mr Henry Maddocks, barrister-at-law, has been killed in action. He was in his twentieth year, and the oldest of six sons. He was educated at Oakfield, Rugby, and also at University College, London.

Miss Dora McLelland, who was trained at the Hospital of St Cross, Rugby—and is still on the staff—has been mentioned in the Birthday Honours for Nurses, first-class Royal Red Cross decoration. Miss McLelland is at present working in the Territorial Force Nursing Service.

R V Wilson (Old Laurentian), son of Mr J G Wilson, York Street, Rugby, has joined the H.A.C Infantry Division. The Old Laurentians have supplied a great many members to this distinguished Company.

The relatives of W H Brain have now received official news from the Admiralty, stating that he was drowned when his ship—the “ Indefatigable ” — was lost in the North Sea Battle.

ST MATTHEW’S BOY IN THE SEA FIGHT.

Mr R H Myers, headmaster of St Matthew’s Boys’ School, has received the following interesting letter from an “ old boy,” P.O Telegraphist E W Penney:—

“ I thought you would like to know that I managed to come safely through our recent battle without a scratch, being luckier than I was at the ‘ Dogger Bank,’ though that was only a picnic compared with the Jutland Battle. As usual, we were in the thick of the fight, which is only natural, seeing that we fly the flag of Vice-Admiral Sir David Beatty and are flagship of the Battle Cruiser Fleet. It is a great pity we did not meet the enemy earlier in the day. Had we done so, I am certain there would have been annihilation for the High Seas Fleet ; but, of course, it is only a pleasure deferred. I can state with confidence that, although our losses were rather heavy, the German losses were much heavier in both material and men, but, unlike us, do not publish the whole of their losses, though we know them just the same. They were very brave at first, when they thought that our Battle Cruiser Squadron was alone, but immediately the Grand Fleet hove in sight they made of at full speed. It was a wretched day, the average visibility being only about 5,000 to 6,000 yards, so, aided by the darkness and mist, they escaped—but they had a good hammering first. All we ask now is to meet them a little further out, as this time they were on top of their own shores. I lost many friends in the ‘ Queen Mary ’ and other ships, but I have the satisfaction to know that they upheld the glorious traditions handed down to us by our ancestors.

“ I have had some rather unique experiences during the War. Some time ago I was fortunate to have a trip to Flanders with a party from the Grand Fleet. I spent four days in the first line trenches at ——,and afterwards we had a tour of the batteries, and spent some hours looking round Ypres, which is a sight never to be forgotten. Our trenches were pretty close to the Germans, so I was able to throw over a few souvenirs in the shape of bombs ; and, of course, the compliment was returned. I did not see any Rugby men out there, but I must say all the troops were very cheerful, and they wondered who we were, as we dressed in khaki, but kept our cap ribbons on.

“ All good wishes to the boys of the old school, past and present.”

ANOTHER EMPLOYEE OF MESSRS FROSTS KILLED.

News has been received that Rifleman A Pullen, of the Machine Gun Section, Rifle Brigade, has been killed in Francs during the taking of a German mine crater. Rifleman Pullen, who enlisted in September, 1914, and was drafted to the Front in July, 1915, was employed by Messrs Frost as a compositor before the War, and lodged at 117 Oxford Street. He is the eight employee of the firm to be killed in the War. A fellow-employee, Rifleman Negus, was killed at the same gun some time ago. Rifleman J Pyne (R.B), an employee of Messrs Frost & Son, is now in the London General Hospital suffering from a wound in the shoulder. He is making good progress.

THURLASTON.

PROMOTION.—Corpl C Hedgcock, son of Mrs Hedgcock, of Thurlaston, has been promoted to the rank of sergeant.

SOUTH KILWORTH.

Mr J Pickering has received the sad news that his son, W J Pickering, had perished on H.M.S. Defence at the naval battle on May 31st. A memorial service was held in the Parish Church on Sunday afternoon and a very large congregation assembled. Special Psalms and hymns were sung by the choir, of which he was a member. The Rector (the Rev R M Bryant) delivered a most impressive and touching address.

STOCKTON.

ROLL OF HONOUR.—Mr and Mrs W Maskell have this week been notified that their son George was killed when in action in France on May 30.

WOMEN’S WORK ON THE LAND.

A meeting to consider the question of the employment of women on the land was held at the Benn Buildings on Wednesday afternoon. There was a good attendance of ladies, over whom Dr A A David presided, supported by Miss Craig and Miss Day.

The Chairman said there were three difficulties before them in this matter of work upon farms. In the first place, he had found that a rather absurd difficulty had been encountered in the objection on the part of certain ladies to the work as degrading and beneath their dignity. He did not suppose there was anyone present who would sympathise with that opinion, but still there was the difficulty to be faced, although they could rise above it, and they must strive by precept, and more particularly by example, to oppose this absurd notion. The second difficulty was the farmer. The farmer had been abused a good deal lately, and they most not be offended with them if they did not display the enthusiasm some of them might be expected to show at the idea of having women to work for them. The third difficulty was that of organisation. It was obvious that if a number of people continued to get some big thing done, there must be a certain amount of machinery to give them the opportunity for combined effort. This had been solved by the network of organisations all over the country, and which in their county was represented by the Warwickshire War Agricultural Committee. Rugby was represented on that committee by a lady to whom the town owed a great debt of gratitude for the work she had already done, and to whom they would owe a greater debt before this task was over—Miss Whitelaw. A few weeks ago, when they decided at the School to allow boys to go out in squads to help the farmers as they did last year, he wrote to Miss Whitelaw, and pointed out that he was anxious not to get in the way of any organisation for similar employment of women, and the boys were quite willing to stand aside if necessary. Up to the present they had had more applications than they could possibly meet. They would try to arrange with some of the farmers to employ women, even if it came to the point of refusing to let the boys go to a village until the women were fully employed. Whatever they might do, he promised not to stand in the way of the employment of women labour. This call upon women was very clear and urgent, and he was very much impressed by hearing from the farmers of the fearful progress which the weeds were making. He hoped that as the result of that meeting some organisation would be brought nearer, if it was not finally decided upon. There was a considerable danger of a thing like that being taken up warmly at first, and then the people getting tired of it, but, he pointed out, that in this case the work must be kept up until the end of the harvest.

Miss Craig then addressed the gathering on the vital importance of the food supply to the nation. They had been depending too largely upon other countries for their food supply, and the farmers were now being asked to produce more, and not less, food. This was very difficult, owing to the large number of men who were being called to the colours. The land was the nation’s source of wealth, and if it failed to produce to its utmost capacity, it would mean a tremendous increase in the price of food to the well-to-do, and to the poor it would mean poverty and privation such as they had never experienced, and such as they could hardly comprehend. This was the opportunity for women to show their value to the nation. There was only one way for England to be beaten by the Germans. It was not the loss of men, because they had been told that they would fight to the last man ; it was not the loss of money, because they would fight to the last shilling ; but if their ships failed to bring in the supplies, and if the work of the farmers did not go on, if the food fell off, then indeed would their men at the front feel that they had done their bit in vain, and that alone would make them feel they could lay down their arms, having been unsuccessful.

Miss Day alluded to the fact that Lord Selborne, President of the Board of Agriculture, had asked for   400,000 women to help in the food production of the country, and there were several classes whom she thought might assist. First, there were the women who were receiving separation allowances ; they were costing the country about £30,000,000 a year ; she did not begrudge them their money, and she would be the last to suggest that the men should go away and leave their wives in want ; but if they were getting that from the nation it was their duty to do something for the nation, and she thought they could rightly demand their services (applause). They also wanted women from the towns to go out and live in the country and work on the farms regularly, not only at harvest time, but all through the year. If she could get 100 whole-time workers from Rugby she would be able to get them placed with farmers within about a week. They also desired women to undergo a course of training, either on the farms or in colleges for agricultural work, and also to obtain gangs of cyclist workers who could go out one day in each week and work for a farmer under the care of a skilled forewoman. To make this a success, they would desire six ladies to make themselves responsible for a gang one day in each week. Referring to the difficulty mentioned by the Chairman, the fact that some women thought the work was degrading, Miss Day said this could be overcome by women of education coming forward and giving a lead. This would show that whatever work was to be undertaken, provided that it was done to the best their power, was work worth doing.

Several interesting questions were asked and answered and farmers requiring workers, and women desirous of helping, were referred to Miss Whitelaw.

PRISONERS OF WAR HELP COMMITTEE.

A meeting of the Executive of the Rugby Prisoner of War Help Committee was held at the Rectory on Saturday. Mr Wm Flint, C.C, presided.

The Hon Secretary (Mr J Reginald Barker) reported that the receipts to date amounted to £472 10s 4d, the expenditure was £314 17s 1d, leaving a balance in hand of £158 2s 3d.

Mr Barker also stated that he had completed arrangements for despatching a 4lb loaf of “ Dujon ” bread to each prisoner every week. The prisoners of war spoke very highly of this broad, and letters received showed that it arrived in excellent condition. The cost of each loaf, including packing, was 1s.

In view of the fact that the committee were now looking after the welfare of 51 men from Rugby and the surrounding villages, and that the cost of the weekly parcels of food and the special parcels of bread was about £13 per week, the Executive Committee discussed various suggestions for raising funds to ensure a continuance of the weekly parcels.

Mrs Blagden, who is in charge of the parcels sub-committee, said the parcels contained food in accordance with the instructions received from London. The supplies included butter or margarine, sugar, tea, condensed milk, cafe au lait, jam or syrup, bacon or corned beef, shredded wheat or force, soup squares, sardines or herrings, and occasionally cigarettes or tobacco.

Other items were included from time to time, such as tooth-powder and brushes, shirts, socks and under-clothing, and at the special request of a prisoner of war boots were sent.

DEATHS.

DEANE.—Killed in action on June 3rd Edmund Bonar (1st Canadian Division), eldest son of Rev. C. H. Deane, M. A., 46 Church Street, Rugby (formerly Vicar of Willoughby).

GOUGH.-James Clecton Gough, 11th Royal Warwickshire Regiment killed by a shell in France, June 2nd, aged 30 years.

IN MEMORIAM.

GREER.—In loving memory of Pte. Robert Greer, 1st Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, who was killed in action at Gallipoli, June 18, 1915.—Dearly loved and mourned by all at 12 Argyle Street, Rugby.

HANCOX.—In loving memory of our dear and only son and brother, Charles Hancox, Stretton-on-Dunsmore, who died of wounds received in action June 20, 1915.

“ One year has passed, our hearts still sore,
Day by day we miss him more ;
His welcome smile, his dear, sweet face,
Never on earth can we replace.
We often sit and think of him,
And think of how he died ;
To think he could not say “ Good-bye ”
Before he closed his eyes.”
Deeply mourned by his loving MOTHER, FATHER and SISTERS.

HUGHES.—In loving memory of our son Jack, killed in France, 18th June, 1915.

“ He sleeps not in his native land,
But neath some foreign skies ;
And far from those who loved him best,
In a hero’s grave he lies.”
—From his loving MOTHER and FATHER.

 

10th Jun 1916. The Great Naval Battle

THE GREAT NAVAL BATTLE.

MORE THAN THREE HUNDRED OFFICERS KILLED.

The Admiralty issued on Sunday night a detailed list of the casualties among the officers serving in the ship which took part in the great fight in the North Sea last week. All those on board the Indefatigable, the Defence, and the Black Prince were lost ; only four of the Queen Mary and two of the Invincible were saved. The list of killed numbers 333 and includes Rear-Admirals Hood and Arbuthnot, whose flags were carried on the Invincible and the Defence respectively. Many representatives of well-known families are to be found in the list, including the Earl of Denbigh’s second son, Lieut-Commander the Hon Hugh R C Feilding, and Sub-Lieut the Hon Algernon W Percy, only son of Lord Algernon Percy, of Guys Cliff, Warwick.

The first official notification of the battle, published in Saturday morning’s papers, caused a feeling of uneasiness throughout the country, especially when read in connection with the German claims of a great victory. But a further statement, issued by the Admiralty on Sunday night, disposed finally of the impudent German pretence. It was made plain that when, after a vigorous engagement between the leading ships of the two fleets, the main body of the British Fleet came up, the German High Seas Fleet turned tail, and ran for home. In this encounter they were severely punished. The pursuit was maintained until the light failed, and after nightfall British destroyers made a further successful attack on the enemy. Having driven the enemy into port, Sir John Jellicoe cruised about the main scene of action in search of disabled vessels until noon next day, when he returned to his bases, and by the evening of June 2nd his fleet was again ready to put to sea. While the enemy’s losses are not exactly determinable, it is certain that the accounts which they have given to the world are false, and that their losses are not only relatively but absolutely heavier than ours.

The enterprise towards the north on which the German ships set out, whatever may have been its immediate object, was a challenge to the British Fleet, Admiral Sir David Beatty (whom Rugby is proud to claim as an erstwhile townsman) deliberately took up the challenge, though he had at his command only a portion, and that not the strongest, of our forces to pit against the whole navy of Germany. With wonderful gallantry and tenacity he fought, and held the enemy until our Grand Fleet could join in the conflict. The German Fleet had their chance to consider conclusions with our main sea forces, and they declined it. Some of the splendid ships and brave men in whom the nation placed a proud trust kept that trust at the last cost, and the enemy slunk away to their ports, leaving at the bottom of the sea at least four of their largest ships. In short, the German Fleet is to-day as tightly bottled up as it was before.

Lieut-Commander the Hon Hugh Cecil Robert Feilding, his Majesty’s ship Defence (killed in the North Sea battle), was the second son of the Earl and Countess of Denbigh. He was torpedo officer of this ship for three and a-half years, and for the last few months had been first lieutenant. Born in December, 1886, he was educated at the Oratory School Edgbaston, and his Majesty’s ship Britannia, whence he passed as midshipman, and obtained the prize for the highest aggregate of marks. He served as midshipman on the Mediterranean and South African Stations in his Majesty’s ships Bacchante and Crescent respectively. He gained the coveted “ Six ones ” in his examinations for lieutenant, as well as the special promotion marks for “ meritorious examination,” which caused him later on to be antedated considerably, his rank as lieutenant dating from within a few days of his twentieth birthday. Commander Feilding was awarded the Beaufort testimonial and the Whartop testimonial with gold medal for highest marks in navigation and pilotage, and also the Ronald Megaw prize and sword for those obtaining highest marks in the examinations for lieutenant. He specialised for torpedo after serving at sea in his Majesty’s ship Queen, and also in his Majesty’s ship Cornwall, when she made an interesting cruise in the Baltic. After passing very high in the advanced course at Greenwich, he served for a time on the Vernon, and was then appointed to the Defence. Commander Feilding was an officer of brilliant abilities and high promise.

Lieut Feilding was very popular with the tenants of the Newnham Paddox Estate, although he did not take any active part in public life there. Before joining the Navy he frequently shot over the farms with much success.

The Earl and Countess of Denbigh will naturally feel deeply grieved by the loss of their gallant son, and sincere sympathy will be extended to them by all ; but they will, no doubt, find comfort and consolation in the fact that he gave his life fighting gloriously in a battle which one may expect will be recorded in history as one of the decisive battles of the world, and perhaps the greatest.

Sub-Lieutenant the Hon Algernon William Percy was the only son of Lord Algernon Malcolm Arthur Percy, of Guys Cliffe, Warwick, and Lady Victoria, eldest daughter of the fourth Earl of Mount Edgcombe, and grandson of the sixth Duke of Northumberland, Lieut Percy held a lieutenant’s commission in the 3rd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers for seven years. His joined the Royal Naval Reserve in 1914. He was a Magistrate and a member of the County Council for Warwickshire.

Among local men who perished in the battle were the following :-

Harry Cooper, son of Mr John Cooper, and grandson of Mr A Finch, both of 12 Queen Street, was serving as a boy on the Defence, and as no news has been received by them it is presumed that he has been drowned. He was only 17 years of age, and joined the Navy about twelve months ago, previous to which time he was employed at the International Stores. He was an Old Elborow boy.

Gunner W H Brain, nephew of Mrs B King, Old Bilton, and of Mr F Brain, formerly of Birdingbury, and now of Houston road, Brownsover. He was 17 years of age, and joined the Navy on Christmas Day, 1914. After being trained on the Powerful, he was drafted to the Indefatigable at the beginning of the present year.

Amongst those who went down with the Indefatigable was Chief Stoker Walter Wreford, brother of Mr W J Wreford, 18 Wood Street, Rugby. Although he was not a native of Rugby, Stoker Wreford spent most of his long leave in the town, and was well known to a circle of Rugbeians. He completed his 22 years’ service at Christmas, 1913, but volunteered for service in the following August, on the outbreak of War. He was one of the crew of the Camperdown when she collided with and sank the Victoria in the Mediterranean.

NEW BILTON SAILOR KILLED ON H.M.S. “ INVINCIBLE.”

Amongst those lost on H.M.S Invincible was Chief First-Class Petty Officer Mechanician William Josiah Badger, of New Bilton. Mr Badger, who had been in the Royal Navy for thirteen years, and had made remarkably good progress in his profession, was a native of Princethorpe, but went to reside at New Bilton with his parents 17 or 18 years ago. He was 33 years of age and married. His brother, Mr H Badger, lives in Bridle Road, New Bilton.

LORD KITCHENER DROWNED.

THE NATION’S GREAT LOSS.

The whole Empire was shocked on Tuesday at the news that Field-Marshal Lord Kitchener, Secretary of State for War, and one of the foremost military organisers in the world, had lost his life by drowning. On the invitation of the Czar, Lord Kitchener had undertaken a visit to Russia in order to discuss important military and financial questions, when the vessel on which he was travelling, the armoured cruiser Hampshire, was sunk west of the Orkneys, either by a mine or a torpedo. Four boats were seen to leave the sinking ship, but heavy seas were running, and up to Wednesday no news had been received of any survivors, only some bodies and a capsized boat having been found by the search parties which were sent out by sea and land.

Accompanying Lord Kitchener were Brig-Gen W Ellershaw and Mr H J O’Beirne, of the Foreign Office, Sir H F Donaldson, K.C.B, and Mr L S Robertson, of the Ministry of Munitions.

A summary of Admiral Jellicoe’s message conveying the fateful information to the Admiralty appeared in our mid-week edition on Tuesday afternoon, and the distressing news was received with the profoundest regret and dismay. People after eagerly scanning the telegram would ask whether it could possibly be true, and it was with difficulty they could bring themselves to believe that it was. The depressing effect caused in the first instance soon passed away, and gave place to the feeling that the work so well begun by Lord Kitchener would be carried on with still greater determination to a victorious issue.

In a message to the army, the King says :

Lord Kitchener will be mourned by the army as a great soldier who, under conditions of unexampled difficulty, rendered supreme and devoted service both to the Army and the State.

The Admiralty announces that 12 survivors from the crew of the Hampshire have been washed ashore on a raft. So far 75 bodies have been recovered, and there is believed to be a possibility that Lord Kitchener’s body may yet be found.

AN EX-DIRECTOR OF WILLANS & ROBINSON ON THE HAMPSHIRE.

Mr Leslie Robertson, who with Sir Frederick Donaldson was representing the Ministry of Munitions on Lord Kitchener’s Staff, was for many years a Director of Willans & Robinson, Ltd., Rugby, and his death is severely felt by many of the Staff with whom he came in contact. He invariably took a warm interact in the Company’s affairs, and also in the welfare and happiness of those working in the Company’s service.

RUGBY MAN DROWNED WITH LORD KITCHENER.

Walter Gurney, younger son of Mr and Mrs J Gurney, of 67 Cambridge Street, Rugby, was included in Lord Kitchener’s party, which was lost on H.M.S Hampshire. Mr Gurney, who was 26 years of age, and was a native of Catthorpe, was valet to Mr J O’Beirne, C.V.O, C.B, of the Foreign Office, in whose service he had been about five months, during which time he had visited Rome and Paris in connection with the Allies’ Conferences. The death of Mr Gurney, who had been four times rejected for the Army, is rendered the more sad as his parents heard a few weeks ago that his only brother, who had been missing for 13 months, must be presumed to have been killed in action.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

Major Darnley has just arrived in Salonika, and has also been made second in command of his battalion.

Harry Hollowell, an Old Laurentain and youngest son of Mr H Hollowell, 11 Victoria Street, Rugby, has joined the Infantry Division of the H.A.C.

Second-Lieut Eric Pearman, younger son of Mr T Pearman, Manor House, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, has been gazetted lieutenant in the 16th Service Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment.

Surgeon Probationer J. C. Brown, third son of Mr J Brown of North Street, Rugby, was on the leader of the 12th Destroyer Flotilla, which was in action in the naval battle off Jutland from 6 p.m till 5 a.m on June 1st. This flotilla is credited with having sunk, among other vessels, a German Dreadnought.

Capt G H Neville, 1st Somerset Light Infantry (of Dunchurch), came to England on May 26th, and after being invested by the King at Buckingham Palace with the Military Cross for valour in the field returned to duty.

Captain the Rev V F Mason, former curate at St Marie’s, has just completed one year as Chaplain to the Forces. He has been in Belgium, Egypt, and France, and was recently on short leave in England.-Captain the Rev Frederick O’Connor, also formerly of St Marie’s, and at present Chaplain to the Forces, has been twice in Egypt, was the last chaplain to leave the Gallipoli Peninsula, and is now stationed at Salonika.

LIEUT H DUNCAN AWARDED THE MILITARY CROSS.

The many friends of Lieut H Duncan, of the Royal Flying Corps, will be gratified to hear that he has received the Military Cross at the hands of H.M the King. Lieut Duncan was formerly employed in the B.T.H Test Department, and was a prominent member of the Test Rugby XV.

STREET ASHTON.

DRIVER TOM WARD, of the Royal Engineers, has been sent home suffering badly from shell shock and neurasthenia, and is now in hospital for special treatment. He was a reserve man, and was amongst the first troops to go out to France at the beginning of the war in August, 1914. He has been at the front a year and eight months, and fought in numerous battles, in which he has had many narrow escapes. He was in the retreat from Mons, the battles of the Aisne, and seven other places, as well as the first, second, and third engagements at Ypres, and it was in the latter he was finally compelled to give way from shell shock.

CHURCHOVER.

HOME ON FURLOUGH.—First Class Stoker Fred Jones has been home on a three weeks’ furlough. His visit was a great surprise to his wife. He has served over 13 years in the service, and has been on a torpedo boat since the outbreak of the war. He had not been home for three years, and had some thrilling stories to tell of life at sea, and also of a narrow escape he had after being washed overboard, when he managed to cling to the sides of the boat.

MUNITIONS TRIBUNAL.—Several cases from the B.T.H. Rugby, came before the Coventry Munitions Tribunal at Coventry on Friday last week.—Alonza Fothergill, 17 Newland Street, New Bilton, was charged with neglecting his work. It was proved that he was refused admittance to the works because he was intoxicated and a fine of £3 was imposed.—Charges of neglecting their work were also preferred against William Hayes painter, of Grosvenor Road, and W Ashton, foundry hand, Cambridge Street, and fines of £1 were inflicted in each case.

BOOKS & MAGAZINES FOR THE TROOPS.

Since last July, by the generosity of the public, the Post Office has maintained an average supply of about 1,000 bags, containing books and magazines, per week ; but the numbers have recently fallen to about 800 per week, though our Army has greatly increased.

The people of Rugby have done well up to the present. Until about the end of last November only about three sacks a week were being sent. A special appeal was made in the columns of the Advertiser early in December, which resulted in a despatch of 18 or 20 sacks weekly. For months the size of the weekly despatches was fairly well maintained at that level ; but there has recently been a great falling off, not only from this office, but from the country generally—so much so that a special general appeal is being made to every single person to assist, if only by the giving as often as possible of a magazine or illustrated weekly paper, for which he or she has no further use.

The books and magazines should be merely handed in over the counter at any post office, unwrapped and unaddressed. They will be forwarded to the depot in London in due course in separate receptacles.

IN MEMORIAM.

JONES.—In loving Memory of Private Arthur Jones, 10822, 6th Leicestershire Regiment. Died June 6, 1915.
“ He is gone from this world
To the home of the blest,
Released from all sorrow and freed from all pain,
Triumphant for ever with Jesus to reign.”
-From his loving Wife and Daughter.

Elphick, William Roy. Died 7th Jun 1916

William Roy Elphick was born on 15th April 1894 in India. His father was Major Harry William Elphick, M.B. of the Bengal Medical Department. His mother was Jane Isabel Keyes and his parents married in Cheltenham in early 1890, shortly before departing for India.

Harry William was placed on half pay in March 1905 and returned to live in Rugby, where he died the following year, at the age of 40. By 1911 the family had moved from 46 Newbold Road to 77 Albert Street, Rugby. William Roy was aged 16 and had an elder sister and two younger brothers.

He attended Lawrence Sheriff and Rugby School. When at Rugby he got his colours for football, and also played with the XI, at cricket, being a particularly good bowler. He also assisted the town clubs in both branches of sport.

In August 1914 William Roy Elphick was gazetted into the Indian Army, second lieutenant in the 108th Indian Infantry, part of the Aden Brigade. In early 1916, stationed in an outpost in the desert, he was attacked by the Turks in superior numbers. On being relieved he was sent, in charge of prisoners, to India. He died, of Cholera, in Bombay, on 7th June 1916. He was buried at Bombay (Sewri) Cemetery, with a cross erected by his Brother Officers.

Design for cross on grave of W R Elphick (cwgc website)

In 1962, because of the difficulty of maintaining graves in independent India, his remains were moved and re-buried near to the Kirkee Memorial in Poona, near Bombay.

He is remembered on the Lawrence Sheriff Memorial Plaque and the Rugby School Roll of Honour.

 

RUGBY REMEMBERS HIM

 

 

Sources:
Rugby Advertiser, 24 June, 1916.
Lawrence Sheriff School and Two World Wars, Ed: David Howe, 2013

Wise, George Edward Foster. Died 4th Jun 1916

George Edward Foster Wise   was born in Rugby according to various census. His birth was registered in Rugby registration district in June quarter 1895.

He was the son of Thomas Arnold Wise and Fanny Estelle Shortland. Thomas Arnold was born in Sidney Australia and his wife in India and the marriage took place in the Isle of Wight in September quarter 1891. According to the 1901 census GEF Wise is aged 5, born Rugby.  He was at home in the school “Oakfield”, run by his father at 21 Bilton Road, Rugby

In the 1911 census he was at St Bees School, Cumberland College aged 15 born Rugby, Warwickshire.

On the outbreak of war he joined the Royal Warwickshire Regiment with the rank of Lieutenant and was posted to the 2/7 battalion.

The CWGC states that Lieut George Edward Foster Wise was killed in action on 4 June 1916 aged 21 and is commemorated at N22 in Cambrin Churchyard extension , on the Memorial Gates in Rugby and on the Oakfield memorial in St Matthew’s Church, Rugby

Medal Roll states that George Edward Foster Wise a Lieutenant in the 2/7^th Battn Royal Warwickshire Reg died 04/06/1916 aged 21 buried grave N22 Cambrin Churchyard Extension.

No entries found at Kew in Service record or army lists

Rugby Advertiser of June 10^th 1916 gives the following details:

LIEUT G E F WISE KILLED.
General sympathy will be felt with Mr and Mrs T A Wise, of Oakfield, in the news received this week that their second son, Lieut G E F Wise, Warwicks, was killed by a shell on June 5th. Lieut Wise, who was 21 years of age in April last, was a charming young fellow, and very popular with all the officers and men of his battalion, a fact which was testified to by the letter from the commanding officer announcing his death. He had a distinguished scholastic career. He gained a scholarship in St Bees’ School, Cumberland, an exhibition in history to Lincoln College, Oxford, and he also won a school exhibition from St Bees’ to Oxford. He obtained a commission in the Warwicks in December, 1914, and was killed within a week of being drafted abroad.

 

RUGBY REMEMBERS HIM

 

 

Pedley, Bernard. Died 4th Jun 1916

Bernard Pedley was born in Crick, Northants and baptised there on 26th August 1894. His father was Alfred Pedley the village schoolmaster. He and his wife Harriet (nee Smith) had married in Birmingham in 1873 shortly before moving to Crick. Bernard was the youngest of their eleven children. In May 1899 Bernard Pedley died, at the age of 50. The family continued living in Crick for a few years, Bernard attended Lawrence Sheriff School in 1905 -1906, before they moved to Leicester. By 1911 Bernard was a sixteen year old bank clerk, living with his widowed mother at 45 Glenfield Road.

It is not known when Bernard enlisted, but comparison with similar numbers in the Worcestershire Regiment suggest it was in December 1915. He would have joined the 4th Battalion in France in March 1916 after their return from Gallipoli. The battalion moved into an area of trenches called “White City” near Auchonvilliers in the Somme. They spent time in the firing line, working on constructing covers for the trenches and placing gas alarms. Artillery was active on both sides.

The war diary for 1916 reads:

Firing line (White City) June 3rd

Erection of overhead cover carried on in all trenches. A raid was carried out by the 86th Brigade on that part of German trenches called “The Hawthorne Redoubt”. Artillery bombarded enemy’s trenches from 12 Midnight to 12.30 A.M., then lifted to 2nd line. Raiding party discharged Bangalore Torpedoes thus cutting the wire. At 12.45 A.M. the party entered the German trenches & found them empty, they did not penetrate into the 2nd line. A few boards were brought back which gave the information that the 119th Reserve Regt were holding the trenches in front of us. At 12.15 A.M. the German artillery replied to our bombardment; & very heavily shelled the White City. Two huts were hit. Casualties 11 killed, 2nd Lt New & 27 other Ranks wounded. Raiding party returned at 1 A.M. Artillery ceased firing 1.30 A.M. Quite an exciting night.

June 4th

At 6 A.M. the eleven bodies were got out from beneath the debris, and taken down for burial to Auchon-Villiers cemetery. 1 Officer and 9 men returned from leave.

Bernard Pedley would have been one of those eleven bodies.

Lance Corporal Bernard Pedley, 25296, 4th Bn, Worcestershire Regiment is remembered at Auchonvilliers Military Cemetery and also on the Lawrence Sheriff School Plaque.

 

RUGBY REMEMBERS HIM

3rd Jun 1916. Employment of a Conscientious Objector Causes Trouble

EMPLOYMENT OF A CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR CAUSES TROUBLE.

Described by the Military representative as a “ thundering bad case ” on the ground that six men were employed, and only one was reported, an application for the exemption of a cowman by a lady in the Hillmorton district was next considered. The lady did not appear, and it was stated that there had been trouble over the employment of a conscientious objector, and that the other men employed on the farm had “ struck ” work. The cowman attended, and expressed his desire to be medically examined, and said he did not wish to remain in his present employment any longer, as if people stuck up for conscientious objectors he thought it was about time Englishmen laid down their tools. He added, referring to the man in question, a gardener: “ I shall duck him in the pond before he goes. I gave him a good hiding on Monday morning ” (laughter).— Mr Wratislaw : When you struck him did he strike you back ?—A: No, sir, he did not. He had not got the pluck, but he has got to clear out on Saturday ; we have got that understanding. I wish he had hit me ; he would have had it worse.—Applicant was advised to get medically examined, and if rejected, Mr Wratislaw promised to see that he should get another job.

A VIOLENT SOLDIER.

At the Rugby Police Court, on Saturday, before T Hunter, Esq (in the chair), and W Dewar, Esq, Pte William Moore, 2nd R.W.R, Long Itchington, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly at Rugby the previous night.—P.S Percival said the defendant, who was mad drunk, was brought to the Police Station by a civilian. Witness tried to get him to go to the Railway Station, but he was very violent, used bad language, and refused to go.—Defendant said he was home on leave for the second time through being wounded. He was very sorry for what had happened. He had been in the trenches for 17 months, and had not touched beer while he was in France.—Supt Clarke said the man had a bad record of long convictions for drunkenness. He was very violent when in drink, and while in the cell the previous night he broke a thick window.— Defendant was dismissed on paying half-a-crown towards the coat of repairing the window.

LOCAL WAR NOTES.

Sergt W H Ginn, of the 1st Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, who was billeted at 83 Abbey Street, Rugby, has been awarded the D.C.M.

Capt the Rev G A S Kennedy, a former curate at Rugby, who is now acting as a chaplain in France, visited Rugby last week, and attended St Andrew’s vestry meeting.

The sum of 30s has been received through Mr Flint, in addition to the collection made at the Passion play performed by St Marie’s School children, in aid of the Rugby Prisoners’ Aid Society.

Mail Casualty List, 31st inst. Wounded: Lieut Geo E Middleditch, Oxon and Bucks L.I. He was a premium apprentice in the L & N-W Erecting Shop before enlisting in H.M Forces.

Pte J H Hirons, 11th R.W.R, of 7 Campbell Street, New Bilton, is visiting his home on ten days’ sick leave. Ptc Hirons was wounded on May 4th, the bullet entering his neck and emerging from the right cheek. He is an old New Bilton Council School boy.

Mrs F W Edwards, of Castle Gresley, daughter of Mr Manning, of 2 Dale Street, Rugby, has received a letter from the King congratulating her upon the fact that, two brothers, three sisters’ husbands, and her own husband are either in khaki or wearing armlets, awaiting the call. Another sister has nursed many wounded soldiers at the V.A.D Hospital, Lutterworth. Her father and another brother-in-law regret that they are at present too old for military service, but the latter hopes the age limit will be extended to 46, so that he may be able to say, “ We are seven.”

At the Baptist Church on Thursday morning Sergt-Major Evans, of the Royal Field Artillery, and son of Mr F Evans, Craven Road, was married to Miss Connie Elliott, daughter of Mr F W Elliott, stonemason. The ceremony was a quiet one, and was performed by the pastor, the Rev J H Lees. Sergt-Major Evans is home on short leave from the front.

Rifleman A J Sansom, of the 2nd Battalion K.R.R, one of the many members of the Operative Bricklayers’ Society who are serving their country, paid a visit to his old Lodge house on Saturday last, and recounted to his fellow-members a few of his many thrilling experiences whilst in France. He enlisted in September, 1914, and went out in January, 1915. Rifleman Sansom saw a lot of fighting before being wounded and gassed, in consequence of which he was invalided home the latter part of last year.

Mr Rupert Tattersall, jun, partner in the well known Knightsbridge firm, has been severely wounded by a shell. A few weeks after war was declared Mr Tattersall, feeling he was not competent to accept a commission, joined the 23rd Fusiliers (1st Sportsman’s) as a private, and after serving nine months in the ranks was given a commission in the Rifle Brigade, and went to the front the first week in March last.

MAJOR JOHN L. BAIRD, D.S.O, M.P.

“ MINISTER FOR THE AIR.”

“ The World’s” “ Celebrity at Home ” last week is Major John Lawrence Baird, the new “ Minister for the Air,” so far as the House of Commons is concerned. Regarding the M.P. for the Rugby Division, “ The World ” says :-

Short of stature, dapper, and debonair, with quite the diplomatic touch and the eyeglass of the young man about town, he is a very serious politician. Born in Kincardineshire on April 27th, 1874, and the eldest son and heir of Sir Alexander Baird, Bart, he will thus one day become the second holder of the title. Trained at Eton, and Christ Church, Oxford, for the Diplomatic Service, he entered it when only 22—in 1896—as Attaché at Vienna, whence he was transferred to Cairo in 1898, and one year later sent down to Abyssinia. He did his best work in this little-known country, for despite his appearance, he is quite a “ strong man,” and used to deputise quite admirably for Sir John Harrington, another strong man who made his reputation by telling the truth, and sticking to it.

Later on he went back to Abyssinia on an independent appointment, and did both good survey and political work (1902-4). This ended his career in Africa; he was sent to Paris as Second Secretary (1904-6) and to Buenos Ayres in 1906-8. This ended his diplomatic activities. In 1905 he married Lady Ethel Keith-Falconer, the eldest daughter of the 10th Earl of Kintore, and blossomed forth as a politician, in which, role he captured, in 1910, the Rugby Division for Warwickshire. He lives at Bilton House. Directly the war broke out he obtained a commission, and became rapidly Captain, and then Major. He fought in the trenches, and at intervals rushed back to the House to galvanise his lethargic colleagues into life, and to tell them some home truths. He is very strong on Military Service for all. Eventually he was intercepted on one of his visits, and offered the post of Parliamentary Secretary to the Colonial Minister. He took it, and the Army now sees him no more, but his interest in its welfare is unabated. Off the official chain to could do excellent work for it. On the chain one can await the future hopefully. He is a good, but not a great speaker, but he will go far in politics, as he is young, thoughtful, and studious. But does he know anything about aviation ?

A NEW SERIES of London and North-Western Railway passenger engines of the Prince of Wales Class are named Gallipoli, Anzac, Suvla Bay, Arethusa, Lusitania, Falaba, Arabic, Persia, Anglia, and Tara.

STRETTON-ON-DUNSMORE.

ROLL OF HONOUR.—Mr and Mrs G Robbins, of The Plot, Stretton-on-Dunsmore, have received news that their son Fred Chas Robbins, aged 27, was recently killed in action. This is the fourth young man from the village to give his life for his country, and great sympathy is felt for the parents in their sad loss. He joined the Warwickshire Regiment soon after the war broke out, having previously worked at Messrs Bluemels at Wolston where he was deservedly popular among his fellow-workers. He first saw active service in the Dardanelles, where he was wounded in the leg. He was sent to a hospital in Isle of Wight, where he remained till the beginning of March. He re-joined his regiment in France soon afterwards, and met his death at the hands of a sniper on April 30th.

Goddard, Cephas. Died 1st Jun 1916.

Cephas Goddard was born in Rugby in 1886. His parents were Cephas William Goddard and Ellen (nee Chapman) who married in 1869 in Kent. Cephas William had been born in Brighton, Sussex and might have been in the army. Around 1875 they had moved to Rugby where Cephas William was employed as a Teacher of Gymnastics, presumably at Rugby School. The family lived in Dunchurch Road, number 9 in 1881, 34 in 1891 and 18 in 1901. Cephus William and Ellen had a total of eleven children.

In 1908 Cephus Goddard joined the Royal Navy, he was aged 22 and working as a fitter and turner. He was 5ft 8in tall with dark brown hair and blue eyes. After several months training at Portsmouth he joined HMS Philomel as Engine Room Artificer 4th Class. Philomel was a cruiser serving with the East Indies Station, running patrols from Aden in the Persian Gulf. Cephas returned to Portsmouth and was perhaps discharged. In late 1912 he married Jessie Ford in Rugby.

On 1st January 1914 Cephas was serving on HMS Hecla, a torpedo boat carrier/depot ship. He was promoted to ERA second class in May 1915 and on 13th November 1915 he joined HMS Fortune. Fortune was an Acasta-class destroyer and had joined the 4th Destroyer Flotilla on the outbreak of war.

HMS Fortune. Public Domain, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=21737518

 

During the evening of 31st May 1916 the flotilla was screening the rear of the Grand Fleet in the Battle of Jutland. At 11.20 they encountered unknown ships. Believing them to be British the flotilla leader Tipperary flashed a challenge. Six opposing ships turned on their floodlights and opened up with their secondary armament. Most aimed for Tipperary which was soon ablaze. The destroyers began to return fire and launched a torpedo attack, which led to a collision among the Germans.

During this first attack, Fortune and Ardent were separated from the rest of the flotilla. They began to look for the German ships which had disengaged after battering their way though the 4th Flotilla. About 11:30pm they eventually found four large ships and engaged them. Both Ardent and Fortune were sunk in the ensuing firefight. The last anyone saw of Fortune was the ship afire but still firing as the destroyer was sinking.

Cephas Goddard, Engine Room Artificer 2nd Class, M/728 is remembered on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial and the Lawrence Sheriff School Plaque.

 

RUGBY REMEMBERS HIM