First World War men A-B
Anderson, John – Gunner, Royal Navy
News reports
13/01/1917 Gunner J. Anderson of Eldernell was the author of some poetry printed in the previous issue.
30/06/1917 Mr & Mrs Anderson of Eldernell had heard from their sailor son John on HMS ****; he was around Greece when the letter was sent.
News reports
13/01/1917 Gunner J. Anderson of Eldernell was the author of some poetry printed in the previous issue.
30/06/1917 Mr & Mrs Anderson of Eldernell had heard from their sailor son John on HMS ****; he was around Greece when the letter was sent.
Anker, A - Private, Cambridgeshire Regiment.
21/10/1916 Reported Wounded
21/10/1916 Pte A. Setchfield (Cambs) wrote home to say Sgt J. T. Cole and Pte A. Anker have been slightly wounded.
21/10/1916 Reported Wounded
21/10/1916 Pte A. Setchfield (Cambs) wrote home to say Sgt J. T. Cole and Pte A. Anker have been slightly wounded.
Anthony, W – Private/Gunner, Middlesex Regiment/Machine Gun Corps/RFA
News reports
23/06/1917 Private W. Anthony, Middlesex Regiment, had been in France for some 2 or 3 weeks and was keeping well and cheerful.
08/09/1917 Among those who had written from France to say they were getting on well was Private W. Anthony, Middlesex Regiment, attached to the Machine Gun Corps.
24/11/1917 Gunner W. Anthony, RFA was still keeping in good health out in France.
News reports
23/06/1917 Private W. Anthony, Middlesex Regiment, had been in France for some 2 or 3 weeks and was keeping well and cheerful.
08/09/1917 Among those who had written from France to say they were getting on well was Private W. Anthony, Middlesex Regiment, attached to the Machine Gun Corps.
24/11/1917 Gunner W. Anthony, RFA was still keeping in good health out in France.
Banks, W – Rank unknown, Army Veterinary Corps (of Eastrea)
News reports
10/11/1917 Shoemaker W. Banks, of Eastrea, was home on leave from France. He was connected with the Army Veterinary Corps.
04/08/1917 Shoemaker W. Banks, of the Veterinary Corps, wrote to say he was enjoying very good health, in fact he had not had a day's illness since going out.
News reports
10/11/1917 Shoemaker W. Banks, of Eastrea, was home on leave from France. He was connected with the Army Veterinary Corps.
04/08/1917 Shoemaker W. Banks, of the Veterinary Corps, wrote to say he was enjoying very good health, in fact he had not had a day's illness since going out.
Barrett, J (W) – Private, Canadians
There could have been both a J. Barrett and a J. W. Barrett
News reports
11/11/1916 ...also home were W. & J. Barrett
03/02/1917 Private Barrett wounded
14/04/1917 Private Barrett Wounded
07/07/1917 Private J. Barrett (Canadians) wounded.
14/07/1917 Private J. W. Barrett, Canadians, had been severely wounded and was in the Woodlands hospital Stockport. He had lost a brother in France a short time before. Both the brothers volunteered for service at the outbreak of the war.
There could have been both a J. Barrett and a J. W. Barrett
News reports
11/11/1916 ...also home were W. & J. Barrett
03/02/1917 Private Barrett wounded
14/04/1917 Private Barrett Wounded
07/07/1917 Private J. Barrett (Canadians) wounded.
14/07/1917 Private J. W. Barrett, Canadians, had been severely wounded and was in the Woodlands hospital Stockport. He had lost a brother in France a short time before. Both the brothers volunteered for service at the outbreak of the war.
Barrett, William – Private 925250, 58th (Central Ontario) Battalion, Canadian Infantry
27/01/1916 Attested
11/11/1916 ...also home were W. & .J Barrett
03/02/1917 Wounded
18/04/1917 Died of wounds aged 22 (born 11/07/1894)
28/04/1917 (reported in the paper) Private William Barrett (Canadians) Died of Wounds, 18/04/1917.
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 56513764
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/469649/BARRETT,%20WILLIAM
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=2098258
He was the son of George James and Eliza Ann Barrett, of Whittlesey, Cambs., England and is mentioned on their grave in Coates churchyard. In loving memory of GEORGE JAMES the beloved husband of ELIZA ANN BARRETT who died 16th March 1936 in his 70th year. Peace Perfect Peace. Also of ELIZA ANN BARRETT who died 3rd January 1950 aged 82 years. Also of PRIVATE WILLIAM BARRETT son of the above who died of wounds in France 18th April 1917 Aged 22 years.
27/01/1916 Attested
11/11/1916 ...also home were W. & .J Barrett
03/02/1917 Wounded
18/04/1917 Died of wounds aged 22 (born 11/07/1894)
28/04/1917 (reported in the paper) Private William Barrett (Canadians) Died of Wounds, 18/04/1917.
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 56513764
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/469649/BARRETT,%20WILLIAM
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=2098258
He was the son of George James and Eliza Ann Barrett, of Whittlesey, Cambs., England and is mentioned on their grave in Coates churchyard. In loving memory of GEORGE JAMES the beloved husband of ELIZA ANN BARRETT who died 16th March 1936 in his 70th year. Peace Perfect Peace. Also of ELIZA ANN BARRETT who died 3rd January 1950 aged 82 years. Also of PRIVATE WILLIAM BARRETT son of the above who died of wounds in France 18th April 1917 Aged 22 years.
Bates, J – Private, Sherwood Foresters
He was a prisoner of war in 1918 and returned home; thus he is not John William Bates who was killed in action. News reports 27/01/1917 Wounded 27/01/1917 Private Bates wounded 13/10/1917 Private J. Bates, Sherwood Foresters, whose home-coming on leave was omitted last week, had a quick change of scenery. On Wednesday night he was "over the top" at the front and on the following night he was safe in his father's house at Beggar's Bridge. He returned to the front on Saturday. 04/05/1918 Missing 22/06/1918 Prisoner 14/12/1918 Eight of eleven local Prisoners of War were safely home. In addition to the 3 named last week Private G. Ward (North Staffs Rgt), Private J. Bates (Sherwood Foresters), Private H. Day (Royal Irish Rifles – wounded), Private J. Turner (Suffolks), Private A. Rowell (Northants Rgt). There are still two unaccounted for and whose absence was causing their friends much anxiety. Private S. Dolby (Royal Fusiliers) and Gunner A. Stroud (RFA). 18/01/1919 The whole eleven Prisoners from this parish had now returned home. Private S. J. Dolby arrived on Saturday and Gunner A. Stroud on Monday. The whole list is Lance-Corporal J. W. Burgandy, Privates G W. Bedford, G. Ward, F. Day, H. Day, A. Rowell, J. Bates, J. W. Turner, H. Wheeler and the two above. |
Bates, John William – Private 201854, 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, formerly 4144, Suffolks.
Died 30/08/1918
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 25045120
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/303648/BATES,%20J%20W
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=3846430
Died 30/08/1918
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 25045120
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/303648/BATES,%20J%20W
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=3846430
Bedford, A – Private, TRB (Training Reserve Battalion)
News report
03/11/1917 Privates A. Bedford and P. Randall, of the TRB, had been home for their first leave. They both looked well.
News report
03/11/1917 Privates A. Bedford and P. Randall, of the TRB, had been home for their first leave. They both looked well.
Bedford, George Herbert (Bert) – Private 2108, Cambridgeshire Regiment "D" comp. 1st Battalion
Born April 1897
Killed in action 30/06/1916 Aged 19
Enlisted in Whittlesey
Occupation, Apprentice Baker
Son of J. H. & S.A. Bedford, Mill House, Coates [Related to me as Brother-in-law of grand aunt.]
Buried St Vaast Post Military Cemetery, Richebourg-L'Avo, Pas de Calais, France. Plot III. Row L. Grave 10
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 56468644
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/569849/BEDFORD,%20G%20H
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=3429841
News reports
12/02/1916 Private G. H. Bedford did not know when his leave would come.
18/03/1916 Private G. H. Bedford (1st Cambs) wrote to say that all leave had been cancelled so the prospect of him visiting home would have to be deferred.
25/03/1916 Private "Bert" Bedford (1st Cambs) celebrated his 19th birthday out at the front on St. Patrick's Day [17th March], the second he had spent out there.
06/05/1916 On Saturday some of the 1st Cambs Regiment arrived home unexpectedly from the front for a few days leave. They all spoke hopefully of the outcome in France: Private Bert Bedford, J Carter, C Pope, A. Boon and H. Butler.
27/05/1916 Private Bert Bedford wrote to say it was warm and that another draft had just joined them; he believed W. Green of Gravel House was with them.
08/07/1916 Pte Bert Bedford (1st Cambs) whose cheery letters have often appeared in these columns had been killed. The news was conveyed in a letter from Sgt J. T. Cole.
13/10/1917 (mentions that) Private G. H. Bedford ("Bert") is lying in the cemetery at Rouge Croix.
Born April 1897
Killed in action 30/06/1916 Aged 19
Enlisted in Whittlesey
Occupation, Apprentice Baker
Son of J. H. & S.A. Bedford, Mill House, Coates [Related to me as Brother-in-law of grand aunt.]
Buried St Vaast Post Military Cemetery, Richebourg-L'Avo, Pas de Calais, France. Plot III. Row L. Grave 10
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 56468644
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/569849/BEDFORD,%20G%20H
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=3429841
News reports
12/02/1916 Private G. H. Bedford did not know when his leave would come.
18/03/1916 Private G. H. Bedford (1st Cambs) wrote to say that all leave had been cancelled so the prospect of him visiting home would have to be deferred.
25/03/1916 Private "Bert" Bedford (1st Cambs) celebrated his 19th birthday out at the front on St. Patrick's Day [17th March], the second he had spent out there.
06/05/1916 On Saturday some of the 1st Cambs Regiment arrived home unexpectedly from the front for a few days leave. They all spoke hopefully of the outcome in France: Private Bert Bedford, J Carter, C Pope, A. Boon and H. Butler.
27/05/1916 Private Bert Bedford wrote to say it was warm and that another draft had just joined them; he believed W. Green of Gravel House was with them.
08/07/1916 Pte Bert Bedford (1st Cambs) whose cheery letters have often appeared in these columns had been killed. The news was conveyed in a letter from Sgt J. T. Cole.
13/10/1917 (mentions that) Private G. H. Bedford ("Bert") is lying in the cemetery at Rouge Croix.
This photograph was found by Find a Grave contributor 'Len' on his visit to St Vaast Post Military Cemetery.
He has told me that he occasionally finds photographs placed next to CWGC memorials and one can only assume that this is Private Bedford* in this case, whose service details are above. * Clicking on this link will allow you to see his memorial in France. |
Bedford, G(eorge) W(illiam) – Private 7585, 1st Suffolks
I need to look from 1914 for a report of him becoming ‘the Coates PoW’
I have located his records on the Red Cross website which give his address as The Green, Coates.
Brother of John Bedford
News reports
17/07/1915 The third parcel to Private G. W. Bedford of 1st Suffolks had been sent. It contained cake, biscuits, Bovril, condensed milk, sugar, cocoa, tobacco and cigarettes and soap. The list of subscribers was posted at the Men's Club at the Public Hall. The next parcel was to be sent on 24th.
05/02/1916 There is a piece about Coates parcels to Private G. H. (should be G. W.) Bedford (1st Suffolks) in Germany as a PoW at Griessen; parcels would now be sent via the PoW Help Committee at Cambridge and were expected to be of better quality.
19/02/1916 Mrs A. Bedford of Council Row had had a post card from her son Private G. W. Bedford (1st Suffolks) who was captured last May and had been at Griessen in Germany since; he was quite well and had received his parcel and clothing.
15/04/1916 Private G. W. Bedford the Coates PoW in Griessen wrote to say he had received all the presents.
13/05/1916 Private G. W. Bedford wrote to say he was getting parcels OK.
15/07/1916 Private G. W. Bedford POW in Griessen Germany had sent a letter to Coates saying he was well and receiving parcels regularly but he had not had a letter for a long time. He also enclosed some photos but the censor opened the letter and extracted them. "Probably they were of a tell-tale nature in more ways than one." He asked for some tobacco, and a parcel of smokes had been forwarded to him from Coates at the weekend.
12/08/1916 Another Coates soldier had been slain, Private J. Bedford 11th Suffolks KIA July 1st. A short article confirms that William (eldest boy) was the Griessen POW and brother of J. Bedford.
18/01/1919. The whole eleven Prisoners from the parish had now returned home. Private S. J. Dolby arrived of Saturday and Gunner A. Stroud on Monday. The whole list is Lance-Corporal J. W. Burgandy, Privates G. W. Bedford, G. Ward, F. Day, H. Day, A. Rowell, J. Bates, J. W. Turner, H. Wheeler and the two above.
I need to look from 1914 for a report of him becoming ‘the Coates PoW’
I have located his records on the Red Cross website which give his address as The Green, Coates.
Brother of John Bedford
News reports
17/07/1915 The third parcel to Private G. W. Bedford of 1st Suffolks had been sent. It contained cake, biscuits, Bovril, condensed milk, sugar, cocoa, tobacco and cigarettes and soap. The list of subscribers was posted at the Men's Club at the Public Hall. The next parcel was to be sent on 24th.
05/02/1916 There is a piece about Coates parcels to Private G. H. (should be G. W.) Bedford (1st Suffolks) in Germany as a PoW at Griessen; parcels would now be sent via the PoW Help Committee at Cambridge and were expected to be of better quality.
19/02/1916 Mrs A. Bedford of Council Row had had a post card from her son Private G. W. Bedford (1st Suffolks) who was captured last May and had been at Griessen in Germany since; he was quite well and had received his parcel and clothing.
15/04/1916 Private G. W. Bedford the Coates PoW in Griessen wrote to say he had received all the presents.
13/05/1916 Private G. W. Bedford wrote to say he was getting parcels OK.
15/07/1916 Private G. W. Bedford POW in Griessen Germany had sent a letter to Coates saying he was well and receiving parcels regularly but he had not had a letter for a long time. He also enclosed some photos but the censor opened the letter and extracted them. "Probably they were of a tell-tale nature in more ways than one." He asked for some tobacco, and a parcel of smokes had been forwarded to him from Coates at the weekend.
12/08/1916 Another Coates soldier had been slain, Private J. Bedford 11th Suffolks KIA July 1st. A short article confirms that William (eldest boy) was the Griessen POW and brother of J. Bedford.
18/01/1919. The whole eleven Prisoners from the parish had now returned home. Private S. J. Dolby arrived of Saturday and Gunner A. Stroud on Monday. The whole list is Lance-Corporal J. W. Burgandy, Privates G. W. Bedford, G. Ward, F. Day, H. Day, A. Rowell, J. Bates, J. W. Turner, H. Wheeler and the two above.
Bedford, H – Private, Buckinghamshire Regiment.
News reports
01/09/1917 Private H. Bedford, of Eastrea, of the Bucks. Regiment, had been wounded in action, and was in the 18th General Hospital, France. He had not been out at the front many weeks.
20/10/1917 Private H. Bedford, Bucks. Regiment, was still in a convalescent camp in France.
News reports
01/09/1917 Private H. Bedford, of Eastrea, of the Bucks. Regiment, had been wounded in action, and was in the 18th General Hospital, France. He had not been out at the front many weeks.
20/10/1917 Private H. Bedford, Bucks. Regiment, was still in a convalescent camp in France.
Bedford, John – Private 15795, 11th (Cambs) Battalion, Suffolk Regiment.
Killed in action 01/07/1916
Brother of William Bedford
News reports
11/03/1916 Private J. Bedford (Suffolk Regiment) said "We are having another spell in the trenches. You will see by the writing that it is not mine because I cut my finger on a bully beef tin so I got one of my mates to write it. Glad to say it is nearly well now. I must tell you that it is cold in the trenches and we can't keep our feet dry. Oldfield and I sometimes give the Germans 5 rounds of rapid fire together. Yesterday we had a Whizz-bang and shells for dinner but they didn't hurt us and we kept on eating"
12/08/1916 Another Coates soldier had been slain, Private J. Bedford 11th Suffolks Killed in Action on July 1st. A short article confirms that William (eldest boy) is the Griessen POW and brother of J. Bedford.
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 12366161
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/770707/BEDFORD,%20JOHN
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=50341
Killed in action 01/07/1916
Brother of William Bedford
News reports
11/03/1916 Private J. Bedford (Suffolk Regiment) said "We are having another spell in the trenches. You will see by the writing that it is not mine because I cut my finger on a bully beef tin so I got one of my mates to write it. Glad to say it is nearly well now. I must tell you that it is cold in the trenches and we can't keep our feet dry. Oldfield and I sometimes give the Germans 5 rounds of rapid fire together. Yesterday we had a Whizz-bang and shells for dinner but they didn't hurt us and we kept on eating"
12/08/1916 Another Coates soldier had been slain, Private J. Bedford 11th Suffolks Killed in Action on July 1st. A short article confirms that William (eldest boy) is the Griessen POW and brother of J. Bedford.
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 12366161
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/770707/BEDFORD,%20JOHN
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=50341
Bedford, Laxton Wright – Gunner 159927, RGA
(b. 1/7/1873 d. 14/9/1973 aged 80) Buried Coates churchyard. Find a Grave memorial number 126720357
Documented Timeline as follows:
02/6/1916 Enlisted, having signed up in Wisbech.
07/5/1917 Called up
09/5/1917 posted to Rugeley
01/6/1917 posted to the 444 “Siege Battalion” in Horsham
25/8/1917 posted to the 450 “Siege Battalion” in Aldershot
02/12/1919 transferred to “Z” class army reserve on demobilization.
Thus he served for 940 days or 2 years, 6 months, 26 days. His record of service page - approved 10th May 1917 – gives his address was Mill House, Coates, Whittlesey, and he was a miller. He was 23 years 8 months and single at this time. He married in 1922. His discharge papers say he was a Farm Labourer before enlistment (although the 1911 census confirms he was a miller) so that is an error or a generalization; his eyes were brown; his mother was Susan. His Medical Examination papers of 12th Sept 1916 (age 23 years 2 months) again give his occupation as miller. He was 5ft 8¾in. high and had lost some teeth from decay.
He received his British War Medal and Victory Medal in 20th May 1922.
News reports:
04/08/1917 Gunner L. W. Bedford was stationed at Horsham, in Sussex,
01/09/1917 Gunner L. H.(W?) Bedford, RGA., had been moved from Lydd to Aldershot.
29/09/1917 Gunner L. W. Bedford, RGA., was at home on leave. He anticipated a trip over the water very soon.
06/10/1917 Gunner L. Bedford. RGA., had been home on draft leave. He then went to where his battery would be assembled before proceeding abroad.
03/11/1917 Gunner L. Bedford, RGA., left England for "Somewhere overseas."
10/11/1917 Gunner L. Bedford RGA., is now in France.
(b. 1/7/1873 d. 14/9/1973 aged 80) Buried Coates churchyard. Find a Grave memorial number 126720357
Documented Timeline as follows:
02/6/1916 Enlisted, having signed up in Wisbech.
07/5/1917 Called up
09/5/1917 posted to Rugeley
01/6/1917 posted to the 444 “Siege Battalion” in Horsham
25/8/1917 posted to the 450 “Siege Battalion” in Aldershot
02/12/1919 transferred to “Z” class army reserve on demobilization.
Thus he served for 940 days or 2 years, 6 months, 26 days. His record of service page - approved 10th May 1917 – gives his address was Mill House, Coates, Whittlesey, and he was a miller. He was 23 years 8 months and single at this time. He married in 1922. His discharge papers say he was a Farm Labourer before enlistment (although the 1911 census confirms he was a miller) so that is an error or a generalization; his eyes were brown; his mother was Susan. His Medical Examination papers of 12th Sept 1916 (age 23 years 2 months) again give his occupation as miller. He was 5ft 8¾in. high and had lost some teeth from decay.
He received his British War Medal and Victory Medal in 20th May 1922.
News reports:
04/08/1917 Gunner L. W. Bedford was stationed at Horsham, in Sussex,
01/09/1917 Gunner L. H.(W?) Bedford, RGA., had been moved from Lydd to Aldershot.
29/09/1917 Gunner L. W. Bedford, RGA., was at home on leave. He anticipated a trip over the water very soon.
06/10/1917 Gunner L. Bedford. RGA., had been home on draft leave. He then went to where his battery would be assembled before proceeding abroad.
03/11/1917 Gunner L. Bedford, RGA., left England for "Somewhere overseas."
10/11/1917 Gunner L. Bedford RGA., is now in France.
Bedford, William Dolby – Lance-Corporal 24391, 11th (Cambs) Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Killed in action 19/04/1918 Aged 23
Son of James William and Emma Bedford, 2 Carters Row, Coates. Enlisted: Whittlesey.
News reports
29/01/1916 The group system was being felt at Coates and several young men had already received papers. Ernest Redhead was off to Felixstowe. G. Rust, A. Dale and D. Bedford were due away.
10/06/1916 Private A. G. Dale (3rd Suffolks) and D. Bedford looked well whilst on leave.
25/11/1916 Private Dolby Bedford (Suffolks) had been promoted to Lance-Corporal
29/09/1917 Lance-Corporal D. Bedford, Suffolk Regiment, who had been in hospital with blood-poisoning had had some leave. He hoped to stay in England for a time before going back to the front.
08/09/1917 Lance-Corporal Dolby Bedford of the Suffolks was reported to be in England, suffering from blood-poisoning.
04/05/1918 reported killed.
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 12698231
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/874412/BEDFORD,%20WILLIAM%20DOLBY
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=887684
Killed in action 19/04/1918 Aged 23
Son of James William and Emma Bedford, 2 Carters Row, Coates. Enlisted: Whittlesey.
News reports
29/01/1916 The group system was being felt at Coates and several young men had already received papers. Ernest Redhead was off to Felixstowe. G. Rust, A. Dale and D. Bedford were due away.
10/06/1916 Private A. G. Dale (3rd Suffolks) and D. Bedford looked well whilst on leave.
25/11/1916 Private Dolby Bedford (Suffolks) had been promoted to Lance-Corporal
29/09/1917 Lance-Corporal D. Bedford, Suffolk Regiment, who had been in hospital with blood-poisoning had had some leave. He hoped to stay in England for a time before going back to the front.
08/09/1917 Lance-Corporal Dolby Bedford of the Suffolks was reported to be in England, suffering from blood-poisoning.
04/05/1918 reported killed.
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 12698231
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/874412/BEDFORD,%20WILLIAM%20DOLBY
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=887684
Beharrell, William (Paul) - Lance-Corporal 39768, Royal Field Artillery
Born 6th June 1867. Farm Labourer.
Son of William Beharrell. Grandmother: Rebecca Beharrell of Fieldside Coates.
He was in the army before WW1
14/11/1905 Attested aged 18 years 6 months, wishing to join the Royal Regiment of Artillery. He was enlisted at Peterborough.
15/11/1905 he had a medical examination in Northampton; he joined the 3rd Depot RFA, at Weedon. His height 5ft 5½ in, weight 126lbs. Chest (before and after training) Girth 36in / 36.5in Range of Expansion 2in / 3.5in, Complexion Fresh, Hair Brown, Eyes Grey, Religion C of E
Mole left side between shoulder blades.
14/11/1905 Driver
15/11/1905 3rd Depot RFA
17/01/1906 posted to 93rd Battery RFA
19/03/1906 has Tonsillitis until 24 March 1906
02/07/1906 3rd Class School certificate
14/11/1908 Transferred to Army reserve
26/06/1908 Tonsillitis until 30th June 1908
10/02/1909 Enrolled
20/05/1911 married Alice Eleanor Holland(s) at St. Saviour’s Forest Gate
05/09/1912 Son Leroy William Beharrell born in Stratford (died 1982)
World War 1 service
Expeditionary Force France 1914
05/08/1914 Mobilised at Athlone
06/05/1918 Promoted to Lance Corporal
08/08/1914 Posted as a Driver
10/03/1916 Posted as a Driver
12/05/1916 Posted as a Driver
30/06/1916 Has conjunctivitis until 29th August 1916
30/07/1916 Posted as a Driver
31/03/1920 Discharged
Born 6th June 1867. Farm Labourer.
Son of William Beharrell. Grandmother: Rebecca Beharrell of Fieldside Coates.
He was in the army before WW1
14/11/1905 Attested aged 18 years 6 months, wishing to join the Royal Regiment of Artillery. He was enlisted at Peterborough.
15/11/1905 he had a medical examination in Northampton; he joined the 3rd Depot RFA, at Weedon. His height 5ft 5½ in, weight 126lbs. Chest (before and after training) Girth 36in / 36.5in Range of Expansion 2in / 3.5in, Complexion Fresh, Hair Brown, Eyes Grey, Religion C of E
Mole left side between shoulder blades.
14/11/1905 Driver
15/11/1905 3rd Depot RFA
17/01/1906 posted to 93rd Battery RFA
19/03/1906 has Tonsillitis until 24 March 1906
02/07/1906 3rd Class School certificate
14/11/1908 Transferred to Army reserve
26/06/1908 Tonsillitis until 30th June 1908
10/02/1909 Enrolled
20/05/1911 married Alice Eleanor Holland(s) at St. Saviour’s Forest Gate
05/09/1912 Son Leroy William Beharrell born in Stratford (died 1982)
World War 1 service
Expeditionary Force France 1914
05/08/1914 Mobilised at Athlone
06/05/1918 Promoted to Lance Corporal
08/08/1914 Posted as a Driver
10/03/1916 Posted as a Driver
12/05/1916 Posted as a Driver
30/06/1916 Has conjunctivitis until 29th August 1916
30/07/1916 Posted as a Driver
31/03/1920 Discharged
Bell, W - Rank unknown, Regiment unknown
News report
13/10/1917 Two discharged soldiers, H. Thorne and W. Bell (the rural postman) had promised to contribute to the programme for the following Thursday's Red Cross Social.
News report
13/10/1917 Two discharged soldiers, H. Thorne and W. Bell (the rural postman) had promised to contribute to the programme for the following Thursday's Red Cross Social.
Bennett, J – Private, Regiment unknown
News report
02/06/1917 Private J. Bennett was in Rugby hospital
News report
02/06/1917 Private J. Bennett was in Rugby hospital
Bennett, Wilfred – Private 877516 Canadian Infantry 73rd Battalion
(I presume that although he was originally from Coates but served as a member of the Canadian forces he was not included on the Coates War Memorial)
Son of Peter and Elizabeth Bennett, of Ship Cove, Polt au Port, St. George, Newfoundland.
Roman Catholic from document on Ancestry.
Died of wounds 09/04/1917 (Document says Killed in Action)
News report
05/05/1917 reported that he Died of Wounds
Find a Grave memorial number 56674432
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1565196/BENNETT,%20WILFRED
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=1586702
(I presume that although he was originally from Coates but served as a member of the Canadian forces he was not included on the Coates War Memorial)
Son of Peter and Elizabeth Bennett, of Ship Cove, Polt au Port, St. George, Newfoundland.
Roman Catholic from document on Ancestry.
Died of wounds 09/04/1917 (Document says Killed in Action)
News report
05/05/1917 reported that he Died of Wounds
Find a Grave memorial number 56674432
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1565196/BENNETT,%20WILFRED
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=1586702
Bigg, G - Driver / Gunner, RFA.
Son of George Behagg Bigg and Mary Ann Bigg (nee Rust). Farm Labourer.
Born 1891. Survived the war and died in 1983 aged 92
News reports
19/02/1916 The last 2 recruits to leave Coates G. Bigg and A. Boon had been put into the RFA and 3rd Battalion of the Bedfordshires respectively.
25/11/1916 Driver G. Bigg wrote from Hyderabad, India and says it was quiet.
01/09/1917 Driver G. Bigg, RFA, who had been stationed at Hyderabad, India, had gone "over the water", most probably to Mesopotamia.
03/11/1917 The parents and friends of Gunner G. Bigg, RFA, were greatly relieved by the arrival of two letters from him, as it was many weeks since they received his last letter. He wrote from the base in Mesopotamia, and said he was quite well, but the weather was very hot. He wondered how the harvest in England had gone on, and wished he had been at home to help. He wished to be remembered to all friends.
24/11/1917 Corporal A. G. Dale, writing from the front, said he was very pleased to see in these columns that Gunner G. Bigg had been heard of from Mesopotamia. He had not heard from him for weeks, although hitherto they had communicated with each other weekly.
01/12/1917 Driver G. Bigg, RFA, had at length broken the long silence and written home to say he was quite well. He was in the Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force, on the Euphrates front.
Son of George Behagg Bigg and Mary Ann Bigg (nee Rust). Farm Labourer.
Born 1891. Survived the war and died in 1983 aged 92
News reports
19/02/1916 The last 2 recruits to leave Coates G. Bigg and A. Boon had been put into the RFA and 3rd Battalion of the Bedfordshires respectively.
25/11/1916 Driver G. Bigg wrote from Hyderabad, India and says it was quiet.
01/09/1917 Driver G. Bigg, RFA, who had been stationed at Hyderabad, India, had gone "over the water", most probably to Mesopotamia.
03/11/1917 The parents and friends of Gunner G. Bigg, RFA, were greatly relieved by the arrival of two letters from him, as it was many weeks since they received his last letter. He wrote from the base in Mesopotamia, and said he was quite well, but the weather was very hot. He wondered how the harvest in England had gone on, and wished he had been at home to help. He wished to be remembered to all friends.
24/11/1917 Corporal A. G. Dale, writing from the front, said he was very pleased to see in these columns that Gunner G. Bigg had been heard of from Mesopotamia. He had not heard from him for weeks, although hitherto they had communicated with each other weekly.
01/12/1917 Driver G. Bigg, RFA, had at length broken the long silence and written home to say he was quite well. He was in the Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force, on the Euphrates front.
Bishop, Tom (Thomas) – Private 2212, "C" Company, 1/1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment.
Died 10/08/1915
Son of Mary Elizabeth Neal (formerly Bishop & nee Chesterfield) of Whype Fen, Whittlesey, and the late John Bishop (Police Constable)
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 22700866
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/258436/BISHOP,%20T
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=2314599
Died 10/08/1915
Son of Mary Elizabeth Neal (formerly Bishop & nee Chesterfield) of Whype Fen, Whittlesey, and the late John Bishop (Police Constable)
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 22700866
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/258436/BISHOP,%20T
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=2314599
Bloy, John William - Private 28174, ASC
Survived the war but died in 1926.
Born in Elm
Farm Labourer (1911 census)
Address: Three Horseshoes, Coates Whittlesey.
27/3/1916 Attested Age 39.
25/10/1916 Discharged, his services being no longer required.
213 days service: 6 months, 29 days
Headstone Inscription in Coates churchyard reads:
{Left section} In loving memory of JOHN WILLIAM BLOY who died June 3rd 1926 aged 51 years. {Right section} FRANCES ANNE BLOY who passed away Aug 7th 1962 aged 84 years.
Survived the war but died in 1926.
Born in Elm
Farm Labourer (1911 census)
Address: Three Horseshoes, Coates Whittlesey.
27/3/1916 Attested Age 39.
25/10/1916 Discharged, his services being no longer required.
213 days service: 6 months, 29 days
Headstone Inscription in Coates churchyard reads:
{Left section} In loving memory of JOHN WILLIAM BLOY who died June 3rd 1926 aged 51 years. {Right section} FRANCES ANNE BLOY who passed away Aug 7th 1962 aged 84 years.
Blunt, George - Private / Driver 620149, 43th Batallion East Surrey Regiment
Of Eastrea Road, Coates
Occupation: Farm Labourer
Marital Status: Single
Birth (July 1899 from BMD)
Father: William Blunt
Service details
6/7/1917 Enlisted: Age 18 years 9 or 10 months (both are stated on different forms)
Height 5ft 6in: Chest Girth 34 Range of Expansion 2.5: Complexion Fresh: Eyes Blue: Hair Brown.
27/5/1918 Called up (Cambridge) 28/5/1918
27/5/1918 to 18/9/1918 ‘Home’
28/5/1918 Posted to 43th Bn East Surrey Regiment
12/3/1919 injured in the field.
08/9/1919 Transferred as a Driver with Royal Engineers, but with effect from 10/7/1919
19/9/1918 British Expeditionary Force
25/3/1920 Demobbed
Of Eastrea Road, Coates
Occupation: Farm Labourer
Marital Status: Single
Birth (July 1899 from BMD)
Father: William Blunt
Service details
6/7/1917 Enlisted: Age 18 years 9 or 10 months (both are stated on different forms)
Height 5ft 6in: Chest Girth 34 Range of Expansion 2.5: Complexion Fresh: Eyes Blue: Hair Brown.
27/5/1918 Called up (Cambridge) 28/5/1918
27/5/1918 to 18/9/1918 ‘Home’
28/5/1918 Posted to 43th Bn East Surrey Regiment
12/3/1919 injured in the field.
08/9/1919 Transferred as a Driver with Royal Engineers, but with effect from 10/7/1919
19/9/1918 British Expeditionary Force
25/3/1920 Demobbed
(1) Blunt, J - Lance-Corporal, Labour Battalion, attached to the Northamptonshire Regiment
News reports
02/09/1916 Wounded
03/02/1917 Gunner G. J. Rowell had gone to France and Gunner J. Blunt expected to join him soon.
07/04/1917 Private J. Blunt was transferred to the Labour Battalion attached to Northants Regiment and sent out to the front again.
09/06/1917 Private J. Blunt (Labour Bn.) and Gunner C. Searle RFA had a couple of hours together 'out there' and caught a glimpse of Bombardier T. Ellington RFA as the battery passed by but a handshake was all they had time for.
25/08/1917 Private J. Blunt, of the Labour Corps, B.E.F., wrote to say he was well, but would prefer labour in the harvest field to being out there.
27/10/1917 A member of the Labour Battalion, J. Blunt, had been the recipient of a stripe, and was now a Lance-Corporal.
10/11/1917 Lance-Corporal J. Blunt of the Labour Battalion, attached to the Northants. Regiment, had met with another local boy, Private J. Woodcock, R.A.M.C., in France, and they had quite a nice time together.
News reports
02/09/1916 Wounded
03/02/1917 Gunner G. J. Rowell had gone to France and Gunner J. Blunt expected to join him soon.
07/04/1917 Private J. Blunt was transferred to the Labour Battalion attached to Northants Regiment and sent out to the front again.
09/06/1917 Private J. Blunt (Labour Bn.) and Gunner C. Searle RFA had a couple of hours together 'out there' and caught a glimpse of Bombardier T. Ellington RFA as the battery passed by but a handshake was all they had time for.
25/08/1917 Private J. Blunt, of the Labour Corps, B.E.F., wrote to say he was well, but would prefer labour in the harvest field to being out there.
27/10/1917 A member of the Labour Battalion, J. Blunt, had been the recipient of a stripe, and was now a Lance-Corporal.
10/11/1917 Lance-Corporal J. Blunt of the Labour Battalion, attached to the Northants. Regiment, had met with another local boy, Private J. Woodcock, R.A.M.C., in France, and they had quite a nice time together.
(2) Blunt, J - Private, Essex Regiment
News reports
02/09/1916 A Piece about the Coates Roll of Honour and how J. Blunt got wounded {I will obtain this}.
14/10/1916 Private J. Blunt, Essex Regiment, expected to be moved from Northfield hospital as his arm was healing well.
25/11/1916 Private J. Blunt (Essex) was at home with a bad arm and didnot seem to have the use of it.
News reports
02/09/1916 A Piece about the Coates Roll of Honour and how J. Blunt got wounded {I will obtain this}.
14/10/1916 Private J. Blunt, Essex Regiment, expected to be moved from Northfield hospital as his arm was healing well.
25/11/1916 Private J. Blunt (Essex) was at home with a bad arm and didnot seem to have the use of it.
(3) Blunt, John - Signaller 8511 and 96811, 21st Siege Battalion RGA
Address: Three Horse Shoes, Coates, Cambridgeshire. Later, Sycamore House Coates.
Occupation: Farmer
Height: 5ft 8.5in: Girth 39.5in: Range of Expansion: 3in: Blue eyes
Attested: 12/06/1916 (Age 32, Born 22/01/1884)
He had served before, 2 years in the 3rd Cambs (West) Suffolk Regiment.
Mother: Mary Anne Blunt, Eastrea Whittlesey.
Awarded BWM and V Medals
Discharged 22/01/1919
Part of his record on Ancestry (SN96811) states that he was profoundly deaf on one occasion as a result of a shell burst in 1917. On admission (to hospital?) he was emotional and unstable. Later his mental condition improved and he could hear all conversation directed at him if articulated clearly.
Address: Three Horse Shoes, Coates, Cambridgeshire. Later, Sycamore House Coates.
Occupation: Farmer
Height: 5ft 8.5in: Girth 39.5in: Range of Expansion: 3in: Blue eyes
Attested: 12/06/1916 (Age 32, Born 22/01/1884)
He had served before, 2 years in the 3rd Cambs (West) Suffolk Regiment.
Mother: Mary Anne Blunt, Eastrea Whittlesey.
Awarded BWM and V Medals
Discharged 22/01/1919
Part of his record on Ancestry (SN96811) states that he was profoundly deaf on one occasion as a result of a shell burst in 1917. On admission (to hospital?) he was emotional and unstable. Later his mental condition improved and he could hear all conversation directed at him if articulated clearly.
Blunt, Richard (Dick) – Private, ASC
News reports
29/01/1916 Private “Dick” Blunt ASC and A. Setchfield had been at home on leave. The former was at Romsey at the Remount Depot and the latter was in Newmarket.
17/03/1917 Private “Dick” Blunt wrote from Salonica wishing to be remembered to all his friends.
02/06/1917 Private “Dick” Blunt ASC wrote to say that he will look out for Gunner J. Furniss RGA. Dick’s letter sent best wishes to all his Coates friends and 'brothers in khaki'.
News reports
29/01/1916 Private “Dick” Blunt ASC and A. Setchfield had been at home on leave. The former was at Romsey at the Remount Depot and the latter was in Newmarket.
17/03/1917 Private “Dick” Blunt wrote from Salonica wishing to be remembered to all his friends.
02/06/1917 Private “Dick” Blunt ASC wrote to say that he will look out for Gunner J. Furniss RGA. Dick’s letter sent best wishes to all his Coates friends and 'brothers in khaki'.
Blunt, Thomas – Private 095323, Remount Squadron ASC
Attested 08/05/1915 at Ramsey
Father: William Blunt
Occupation: Farm Horse keeper (Farm Labourer “Machinist” on 1911 census)
Age 25 years 6 months (b. 1890)
Terms of service: Duration of War (reckoned from 01/05/1915)
Embarked Southampton 08/11/1916
Disembarked Salonica 26/11/1916
J.H. & T. Gale wrote a reference stating that he was used to handling horses.
Ditto from H? E. Green
News reports
05/08/1916 Private T. Blunt (Remount Depot) was home at w/e after inoculation.
07/10/1916 Private T. Blunt ASC is back at the Remount Depot and has resumed his job in the Sgts mess.
28/07/1917 Private T. Blunt ASC at Salonika wished to be remembered to all friends and said in a letter home to Coates that he had come across the grave of George Unger who was at one time engaged on a farm at Eldernell; it was well cared for and he wished to assure readers that it would be so as long as he was able.
11/08/1917 Private T. Blunt, ASC, at Salonika, wrote very cheerfully about the life out there, but expressed the wish that he were helping with the harvest in England. Neither he nor Gunner Furniss had met any of the boys from Coates out there yet.
20/10/1917 Private T. Blunt, ASC Remount Depot. Salonica, wrote very cheerfully, as usual, about his life out there, and wished to be remembered to all the boys.
Attested 08/05/1915 at Ramsey
Father: William Blunt
Occupation: Farm Horse keeper (Farm Labourer “Machinist” on 1911 census)
Age 25 years 6 months (b. 1890)
Terms of service: Duration of War (reckoned from 01/05/1915)
Embarked Southampton 08/11/1916
Disembarked Salonica 26/11/1916
J.H. & T. Gale wrote a reference stating that he was used to handling horses.
Ditto from H? E. Green
News reports
05/08/1916 Private T. Blunt (Remount Depot) was home at w/e after inoculation.
07/10/1916 Private T. Blunt ASC is back at the Remount Depot and has resumed his job in the Sgts mess.
28/07/1917 Private T. Blunt ASC at Salonika wished to be remembered to all friends and said in a letter home to Coates that he had come across the grave of George Unger who was at one time engaged on a farm at Eldernell; it was well cared for and he wished to assure readers that it would be so as long as he was able.
11/08/1917 Private T. Blunt, ASC, at Salonika, wrote very cheerfully about the life out there, but expressed the wish that he were helping with the harvest in England. Neither he nor Gunner Furniss had met any of the boys from Coates out there yet.
20/10/1917 Private T. Blunt, ASC Remount Depot. Salonica, wrote very cheerfully, as usual, about his life out there, and wished to be remembered to all the boys.
Boon, A – Private, Bedfordshire Regiment.
News reports
19/02/1916 The last 2 recruits to leave Coates G. Bigg and A. Boon had been put into the RFA and 3rd Battalion of the Bedfordshires respectively.
06/05/1916 On Saturday some of the 1st Cambs Regiment arrived home unexpectedly from the front for a few days leave. They all spoke hopefully of the outcome in France: Private Bert Bedford, J Carter, C Pope, A. Boon and H. Butler.
17/11/1917 Private A. Boon, Beds. Regiment, had been home on leave from the front. He appeared to be in good health.
News reports
19/02/1916 The last 2 recruits to leave Coates G. Bigg and A. Boon had been put into the RFA and 3rd Battalion of the Bedfordshires respectively.
06/05/1916 On Saturday some of the 1st Cambs Regiment arrived home unexpectedly from the front for a few days leave. They all spoke hopefully of the outcome in France: Private Bert Bedford, J Carter, C Pope, A. Boon and H. Butler.
17/11/1917 Private A. Boon, Beds. Regiment, had been home on leave from the front. He appeared to be in good health.
Boon, Frederick (Smith) – Gunner 160130, RGA
(He expressed a preference for Infantry when he signed up)
Son of Arthur Boon and Mary Ann Boon (nee Smith)
Records on Ancestry
Character very good: Occupation Labourer:
Height 5tft 9.5in: Chest Girth 41, Range of Expansion 3:
Address: 10 Carter’s Row Coates
Aged 30 years 7 months on joining
25/12/1905 Married Susannah (Wilson)
20/08/1907 son Arthur Ernest born
20/11/1912 son Alfred Lewis born
10/08/1916 Called up
11/08/1916 reverted to Reserve
12/07/1916 son Frederick Verdun born
11/05/1917 Recalled for service
18/07/1919 Discharged aged 33 suffered Gunshot wounds and had both legs amputated; 100% disabled.
Pension Considered 13/9/1919 40/- per week for 3 children and wife for life.
Medals BRW & V Medal 9380
News reports
28/11/1914 Recruiting - It was hoped that after the previous week's meeting the seeds were sown. As two married men had since gone (Fred Boon and George German) it was hoped that the example would be followed by single men who had the country's welfare at heart.
18/05/1918 Wounded
08/06/1918 Wounded
04/08/1917 Gunner F. Boon, RGA who was home for a short leave the other week, was now in France.
News after the war
27/11/1920 Efforts to raise funds for a hut for Gunner F. Boon in which to carry on a business as a boot repairer resulted in £50 10s.
(He expressed a preference for Infantry when he signed up)
Son of Arthur Boon and Mary Ann Boon (nee Smith)
Records on Ancestry
Character very good: Occupation Labourer:
Height 5tft 9.5in: Chest Girth 41, Range of Expansion 3:
Address: 10 Carter’s Row Coates
Aged 30 years 7 months on joining
25/12/1905 Married Susannah (Wilson)
20/08/1907 son Arthur Ernest born
20/11/1912 son Alfred Lewis born
10/08/1916 Called up
11/08/1916 reverted to Reserve
12/07/1916 son Frederick Verdun born
11/05/1917 Recalled for service
18/07/1919 Discharged aged 33 suffered Gunshot wounds and had both legs amputated; 100% disabled.
Pension Considered 13/9/1919 40/- per week for 3 children and wife for life.
Medals BRW & V Medal 9380
News reports
28/11/1914 Recruiting - It was hoped that after the previous week's meeting the seeds were sown. As two married men had since gone (Fred Boon and George German) it was hoped that the example would be followed by single men who had the country's welfare at heart.
18/05/1918 Wounded
08/06/1918 Wounded
04/08/1917 Gunner F. Boon, RGA who was home for a short leave the other week, was now in France.
News after the war
27/11/1920 Efforts to raise funds for a hut for Gunner F. Boon in which to carry on a business as a boot repairer resulted in £50 10s.
Boon, Horace Ernest - Lance-Corporal 1231 / 325108, C company 1st Cambridgeshires
Likely to have been the brother of Frederick Boon. Born 10/2/1896 Died March 1971
News report
22/05/1915 Private Horace Boon of C company 1st Cambridgeshires had been made a Lance-Corporal.
Likely to have been the brother of Frederick Boon. Born 10/2/1896 Died March 1971
News report
22/05/1915 Private Horace Boon of C company 1st Cambridgeshires had been made a Lance-Corporal.
Bowd, Charles – Corporal, Australian Engineers
A native of Coates
There are no records on Ancestry of his WW1 service. It is possible that he moved to Australia after his first period of military service of which there are records. When he was 21 years and 1 month (Height 5ft 10¾in, 163lbs, chest 36 to 38in, Fresh complexion, brown eyes black hair) he was passed fit for the Royal Corps of Engineers on 14th May 1902, paperwork formalities being completed on 16th May 1902. He had been a wheelwright. His service number was 11906 and he was deemed to have served from 13th May as a Sapper. On 12/11/1903 he extended his service to 8 years; he was promoted to Lance-Corporal on 3/10/1908 and to Corporal on 1/4/1910. There is a note in his record that he extended to complete 12 years on 6/4/1910. His service records say he was: Home 13/9/1902 to 6/12/1903, Hong Kong 7/12/1903 to 29/1/1907, Home 30/1/1907 to 1/4/1911: A total of 8 years 324 days service.
He ceased drawing service pay on 13/5/10. He was discharged on his own request on 1/4/1911. The British Army was being reformed from 1906 to 1912 and this may have been a factor in his decision. His record is signed by the commander of the 1st Divisional Telegraph Company. When Charles was 31 (born 1881) he travelled to Melbourne, Australia departing on 22 Nov 1912 from London, England, sailing on the ‘Orsova’ of the Orient Line. This ties up with the first news story below.
News reports
27/01/1917 Cpl C. Bowd Australian Engineers was in Coates last week with 2 friends. He has not been home for 5 years.
24/06/1916 Old Coates boy C. Bowd wass in France, in the Royal Engineers.
06/10/1917 Corporal C. Bowd, of the Australian R.E., had been spending this week at Coates (of which place he is a native), at his sister's, Mrs. G. E. Dale's. He was in Australia when war broke out, and joined the Royal Engineers immediately.
A native of Coates
There are no records on Ancestry of his WW1 service. It is possible that he moved to Australia after his first period of military service of which there are records. When he was 21 years and 1 month (Height 5ft 10¾in, 163lbs, chest 36 to 38in, Fresh complexion, brown eyes black hair) he was passed fit for the Royal Corps of Engineers on 14th May 1902, paperwork formalities being completed on 16th May 1902. He had been a wheelwright. His service number was 11906 and he was deemed to have served from 13th May as a Sapper. On 12/11/1903 he extended his service to 8 years; he was promoted to Lance-Corporal on 3/10/1908 and to Corporal on 1/4/1910. There is a note in his record that he extended to complete 12 years on 6/4/1910. His service records say he was: Home 13/9/1902 to 6/12/1903, Hong Kong 7/12/1903 to 29/1/1907, Home 30/1/1907 to 1/4/1911: A total of 8 years 324 days service.
He ceased drawing service pay on 13/5/10. He was discharged on his own request on 1/4/1911. The British Army was being reformed from 1906 to 1912 and this may have been a factor in his decision. His record is signed by the commander of the 1st Divisional Telegraph Company. When Charles was 31 (born 1881) he travelled to Melbourne, Australia departing on 22 Nov 1912 from London, England, sailing on the ‘Orsova’ of the Orient Line. This ties up with the first news story below.
News reports
27/01/1917 Cpl C. Bowd Australian Engineers was in Coates last week with 2 friends. He has not been home for 5 years.
24/06/1916 Old Coates boy C. Bowd wass in France, in the Royal Engineers.
06/10/1917 Corporal C. Bowd, of the Australian R.E., had been spending this week at Coates (of which place he is a native), at his sister's, Mrs. G. E. Dale's. He was in Australia when war broke out, and joined the Royal Engineers immediately.
Bowd, Rowland – Able Seaman Private R/1805, Anson Battalion Royal Naval Division
Brother of Charles Bowd
Birth Date: 17 Aug 1886
Death Date: 21 Aug 1918 (Killed in Action)
Relatives Notified and Address: Brother: Benjamin, Bottom Hakes, March, Cambridge
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 56664605
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1740331/BOWD,%20ROLAND
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=1519148
Brother of Charles Bowd
Birth Date: 17 Aug 1886
Death Date: 21 Aug 1918 (Killed in Action)
Relatives Notified and Address: Brother: Benjamin, Bottom Hakes, March, Cambridge
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 56664605
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1740331/BOWD,%20ROLAND
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=1519148
Boyden, James – Private, 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Son of John Boyden and Sarah Ann Boyden (nee Roberts); married to Lilly Payne with whom he had a son James William Boyden.
Died of wounds 26/06/1918
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 108275413
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2828855/BOYDEN,%20J
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=2149190
News reports
19/02/1916 Private J Boyden has been home on leave and looks well.
25/08/1917 Private J. Boyden Suffolk Regiment, Signalling Section, has also been home from France.
11/05/1918 reported Wounded
06/07/1918 new report that he had Died of wounds.
Son of John Boyden and Sarah Ann Boyden (nee Roberts); married to Lilly Payne with whom he had a son James William Boyden.
Died of wounds 26/06/1918
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 108275413
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2828855/BOYDEN,%20J
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=2149190
News reports
19/02/1916 Private J Boyden has been home on leave and looks well.
25/08/1917 Private J. Boyden Suffolk Regiment, Signalling Section, has also been home from France.
11/05/1918 reported Wounded
06/07/1918 new report that he had Died of wounds.
Brown, Fred - Private 23657, 7th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment
Died of wounds 29/08/1916 Aged 20
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 56254021
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/48890/BROWN,%20F
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=3060046
Died of wounds 29/08/1916 Aged 20
Listed on Coates War Memorial
Find a Grave memorial number 56254021
CWGC link http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/48890/BROWN,%20F
WGPP link http://twgpp.org/information.php?id=3060046
Burgandy, C. W. – Gunner, RFA
News reports
15/09/1917 The friends of Gunner C. Burgundy, RFA, were greatly relieved to hear from him. His last letter was dated 12th May, "Somewhere on the Sea" and received by them on June 12th. He was in India, and wrote to say he was quite well, and had had a very interesting voyage.
29/09/1917 Further news was been received by the parents of Gunner C. W. Burgandy to the effect that he was safe in India, and stationed at Mhow.
Burgandy, J – Private, Labour Battalion
News report
08/09/1917 Private J. Burgandy, Labour Battalion, who was in France doing his bit, happened to come across Lance-Corporal D. Bedford down at the base as the latter was on his way to "Blighty."
Burgandy, J. H. – Private, RMP
News report
22/01/1916 Private J H Burgandy (RMP) was moved from Tralee to Aghada Camp County Cork and was in training again.
Burgandy, (J). W. - Lance-Corporal, Munsters
News report
27/04/1918 reported to be a Prisoner.
18/01/1919 The whole eleven Prisoners from this parish had returned home. Private S. J. Dolby arrived on Saturday and Gunner A. Stroud on Monday. The whole list was Lance-Corporal J. W. Burgandy, Privates G. W. Bedford, G. Ward, F. Day, H. Day, A. Rowell, J. Bates, J. W. Turner, H. Wheeler and the two above.
News reports
15/09/1917 The friends of Gunner C. Burgundy, RFA, were greatly relieved to hear from him. His last letter was dated 12th May, "Somewhere on the Sea" and received by them on June 12th. He was in India, and wrote to say he was quite well, and had had a very interesting voyage.
29/09/1917 Further news was been received by the parents of Gunner C. W. Burgandy to the effect that he was safe in India, and stationed at Mhow.
Burgandy, J – Private, Labour Battalion
News report
08/09/1917 Private J. Burgandy, Labour Battalion, who was in France doing his bit, happened to come across Lance-Corporal D. Bedford down at the base as the latter was on his way to "Blighty."
Burgandy, J. H. – Private, RMP
News report
22/01/1916 Private J H Burgandy (RMP) was moved from Tralee to Aghada Camp County Cork and was in training again.
Burgandy, (J). W. - Lance-Corporal, Munsters
News report
27/04/1918 reported to be a Prisoner.
18/01/1919 The whole eleven Prisoners from this parish had returned home. Private S. J. Dolby arrived on Saturday and Gunner A. Stroud on Monday. The whole list was Lance-Corporal J. W. Burgandy, Privates G. W. Bedford, G. Ward, F. Day, H. Day, A. Rowell, J. Bates, J. W. Turner, H. Wheeler and the two above.
Butler, George – Gunner 153812 / 8209, RGA Regiment /163rd Siege Battery
Address: Cross Drove Coates, then 18 Stonald Road Whittlesey.
Height: 5ft 9in. Chest Girth: 40, Range of Expansion 3
Occupation: Smallholder
27/10/1914 Married Nellie (Parish) in registry office
12/12/1915 Attested Age 26 then to Reserve 13/12/15
04/04/1917 Mobilised
20/04/1917 to 14/10/18 Various service listings.
17/09/1918 Wounded (gas)
25/04/1919 Age 29 Discharged Amputated Left leg, deafness left ear. Gunshot wound right calf. 80% disabled.
Statement of Service: 3 years 135 days
Character: Very good
Pension: 29s 6d from 26/4/19 for 13 weeks then 22/- from 13/07/1919 for 39 weeks.
Medals: BWM & V and War Badge
News report
19/10/1918 Reported Wounded (there is a very small chance that this report was about a second Gunner Butler as no initial was given in the news report; however the rank, regiment and slight delay in the date, which would be normal, has caused me to regard this as the one man)
Address: Cross Drove Coates, then 18 Stonald Road Whittlesey.
Height: 5ft 9in. Chest Girth: 40, Range of Expansion 3
Occupation: Smallholder
27/10/1914 Married Nellie (Parish) in registry office
12/12/1915 Attested Age 26 then to Reserve 13/12/15
04/04/1917 Mobilised
20/04/1917 to 14/10/18 Various service listings.
17/09/1918 Wounded (gas)
25/04/1919 Age 29 Discharged Amputated Left leg, deafness left ear. Gunshot wound right calf. 80% disabled.
Statement of Service: 3 years 135 days
Character: Very good
Pension: 29s 6d from 26/4/19 for 13 weeks then 22/- from 13/07/1919 for 39 weeks.
Medals: BWM & V and War Badge
News report
19/10/1918 Reported Wounded (there is a very small chance that this report was about a second Gunner Butler as no initial was given in the news report; however the rank, regiment and slight delay in the date, which would be normal, has caused me to regard this as the one man)
Butler, Harry - Private 2459 then 523929 WR/10524, 1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment, later 329th Quarrying Convoy Royal Engineers.
Son of William & Rebecca Butler (nee Bigg)
Address: Glassmoor, Whittlesey
Occupation: Farm Labourer Employed by Charles Kisby
Birth/Age: 18 years 6m, born 1896
Height: 5ft 4.5in: Chest Girth 37.25in Range of Expansion 1.5in
07/9/1914 Attested for 4 years and considered fit.
14/10/1916 Shrapnel wound right eye
19/04/1917 Transportation to Boulogne
20/05/1917 Had transferred to 329th Quarrying Convoy Royal Engineers as a Sapper, Engine Driver (“Proficient”)
News reports
06/05/1916 On Saturday some of the 1st Cambs Regiment arrived home unexpectedly from the front for a few days leave. They all spoke hopefully of the outcome in France: Private Bert Bedford, J Carter, C Pope, A. Boon and H. Butler.
04/11/1916 Private H. Butler (Cambs) who had been wounded in the arm was now back with his unit.
06/10/1917 Private H. Butler, who used to be in the Cambs. Regiment, had changed to driving an engine on the temporary railway behind the lines; he had also been fortunate enough to get across from France for a short leave, much to the relief of his friends.
13/10/1917 Privates A. Setchfield and H. Butler had both returned to the front. Their leave seemed to have "flown."
Page checked 18/7/14
Son of William & Rebecca Butler (nee Bigg)
Address: Glassmoor, Whittlesey
Occupation: Farm Labourer Employed by Charles Kisby
Birth/Age: 18 years 6m, born 1896
Height: 5ft 4.5in: Chest Girth 37.25in Range of Expansion 1.5in
07/9/1914 Attested for 4 years and considered fit.
14/10/1916 Shrapnel wound right eye
19/04/1917 Transportation to Boulogne
20/05/1917 Had transferred to 329th Quarrying Convoy Royal Engineers as a Sapper, Engine Driver (“Proficient”)
News reports
06/05/1916 On Saturday some of the 1st Cambs Regiment arrived home unexpectedly from the front for a few days leave. They all spoke hopefully of the outcome in France: Private Bert Bedford, J Carter, C Pope, A. Boon and H. Butler.
04/11/1916 Private H. Butler (Cambs) who had been wounded in the arm was now back with his unit.
06/10/1917 Private H. Butler, who used to be in the Cambs. Regiment, had changed to driving an engine on the temporary railway behind the lines; he had also been fortunate enough to get across from France for a short leave, much to the relief of his friends.
13/10/1917 Privates A. Setchfield and H. Butler had both returned to the front. Their leave seemed to have "flown."
Page checked 18/7/14