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First World War Centenary

GRETTON

Those who “served & returned”

On the following pages are details of those who served during the First World War and returned home.

All of those detailed had a connection with Gretton. They were born in Gretton, lived and/or worked in Gretton at the time of their enlistment or Gretton was the family home they returned to after the War.

The purpose of each piece is to provide details of each person’s military service but also some background detail on them and their civilian life. It is not intended to be a comprehensive family history.

The information obtained is from a variety of sources all publically available. It is assumed correct at time of production. If it is felt there is an inaccuracy in anything transcribed or that there is additional information others may find of interest please let Corby Borough Council know and amendments can be made.

Many local men died during the First World War. These stories relate to those who returned home, however few if any of them were the same men who left for war. Many returning servicemen had physical or mental scars that were to remain with them for the rest of their lives.

Hopefully the lists compiled for each of the nine villages within modern day Corby Borough, provide information on the cross section of men, and a few women, who undertook military service during the War and assist in providing an insight into the impact this had on the local community.

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NAME UNIT/REGIMENT  

ABBOTT, Matthew The King’s (Liverpool Regiment) ADDY, Harold Percy Northamptonshire Regiment

Suffolk Regiment ALMOND, Joseph William Morris Hon. Artillery Company ARMITAGE, Valentine Leathley Northamptonshire Regiment BAINES, Walter Inchley Royal Field Artillery BARWELL, John William Norfolk Regiment

Bedfordshire Regiment BINDER, Benjamin The Buffs (East Kent Regiment)

Royal Warwickshire Regiment Manchester Regiment

BINDER, Leonard Harold Bertram Royal Flying Corps

Royal Air Force BOON, John Henry To be verified BOON, John William The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey

Regiment) Royal Fusiliers

BOOB, Sidney Arnold Leicestershire Regiment BREWSTER, Albert James Royal Engineers BROOKS, John George King’s Royal Rifle Corps BROWETT, Frederick Royal Garrison Artillery BRUCE, Frederick Army Service Corps BULLIMORE, Josiah Edwin East Surrey Regiment

Royal Fusiliers

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BULLIVANT, Frederick Lockland Army Service Corps BURNHAM, Herbert Northamptonshire Regiment CHAPPELL, John Francis Northamptonshire Regiment CHEATLE, Donald Ebenezer Royal Navy

Royal Air Force CHEATLE, Richard Melville Royal Army Ordnance Corps CLARK, John Norman Royal Navy CLARKE, Samuel Sidney Bedfordshire Regiment CLIPSON, Issac Leicestershire Regiment

South Staffordshire Regiment COLEMAN, Elijah Northamptonshire Regiment COLEMAN, Frederick John Labour Corps

Royal Army Service Corps COLEMAN, Percival James Royal Garrison Artillery COLES, Edward William Machine Gun Corps DUDLEY, Mary Evelyn British Red Cross FURSDON, Walter To be verified GIMBER, Joseph Woodcock Grenadier Guards HASTINGS, Joseph Royal Naval Air Service

Royal Air Force INGRAM, William To be verified JACQUES, Arthur Sidney South Staffordshire Regiment

Leicestershire Regiment Royal Engineers

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JINKS, Cornelius Daniel Northamptonshire Regiment KNAPP, Daniel William Royal Engineers KNAPP, Frederick William Coldstream Guards

Royal Flying Corps Royal Air Force

KNIGHT, Walter Leicestershire Regiment

Bedfordshire Regiment LANGLEY, Joseph To be verified LATTIMER, Percy James Leicestershire Regiment LAYFIELD, Arthur Northamptonshire Regiment MADDOCKS, Walter Leonard Northamptonshire Regiment MICHELL, Alfred Henry Warwickshire Yeomanry

Machine Gun Corps NORMAN, Charles William Northamptonshire Regiment NORMAN, George Issac The King’s Own (Royal Lancaster

Regiment) NORMAN, William Ernest Boon Royal Army Medical Corps

Northamptonshire Regiment Durham Light Infantry Labour Corps

NORTHEN, Charles Royal Engineers NORTHEN, Stanley Northamptonshire Regiment OAKLEY, Thomas Slough Royal Garrison Artillery PALMER, George Albert Northamptonshire Regiment PICK, John Charles Preston Machine Gun Corps PRIDMORE, Cecil James Canadian Expeditionary Force

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PRIDMORE, Charles Edward Border Regiment

Labour Corps PRIDMORE, Ernest Scottish Rifles (The Cameronians) READYHOOF, William Robert The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey

Regiment) Gloucestershire Regiment

ROGERS, William Arthur Royal Garrison Artillery SMITH, John James Hampshire Regiment

Royal Berkshire Regiment Royal Warwickshire Regiment

SPENDLOVE, Bertrand Northamptonshire Regiment SPENDLOVE, Frederick Royal Garrison Artillery SPENDLOVE, George Albert Army Service Corps SPENDLOVE, Leonard Northamptonshire Regiment SPENDLOVE, Thomas Royal Field Artillery STRETTON, Richard To be verified TEE BOON, Frederick Royal Garrison Artillery TEE BOON, George William Northamptonshire Regiment TEE BOON, George Royal Navy TEE BOON, John William To be verified TEE BOON, Leonard Samuel Guards Machine Gun Regiment TEE BOON, Roland Northamptonshire Regiment

Royal Army Medical Corps TEE BOON, Thomas Sidney Sherwood Foresters

(Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire

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Regiment) VILLETTE, Leonard Northamptonshire Regiment VILLETTE, William Royal Artillery WATERFIELD, George Norfolk Regiment WESTON, Sidney Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire

Light Infantry Machine Gun Corps

WHITMEE, Charles James Northamptonshire Regiment

Essex Regiment WHITMEE, George William Royal Engineers WINNARD, Maurice Young Men’s Christian Association

(YMCA) WOOLSTON, Charles William Cyril To be verified WOOTTON, Charles Machine Gun Corps WOOTTON, William Henry The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey

Regiment) WYKES, Fred Northamptonshire Regiment WYMAN, William Palmer Royal Field Artillery WYMANT, Arthur Royal Garrison Artillery WYMANT, Charles Northamptonshire Regiment WYMANT, David Royal Field Artillery WYMANT, Samuel Royal Flying Corps

Royal Air Force

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Matthew Abbott Matthew Abbott was born in Gretton on 14th December 1897. He was baptised in Gretton on 6th March 1898. His father was Thomas Abbott from Polebrook, his mother Emma Abbott (nee Wyman) from Gretton. Thomas and Emma were married in Gretton on 13th October 1896. In 1901 Thomas and Emma were living in Gretton with their children William, Matthew and Thomas jnr. Thomas Abbott was an agricultural labourer. Also resident was a boarder, William Clipson of Gretton. In 1911 Thomas and Emma were resident with their children William [Palmer Wyman], Matthew, Thomas jnr., Alfred James and Mary Elizabeth Annie. William was a domestic groom whilst Matthew Abbott was engaged in farm work. Matthew Abbott married Violet E. Kettle in 1922. In 1939 Matthew and Violet were living in North Fen, Bourne, Lincolnshire. Matthew was a “horseman on farm”. Military History Matthew Abbott’s name is inscribed on Gretton War Memorial as having served & returned. It is believed that he served as a Lance Corporal in The King’s (Liverpool Regiment). Further details are currently unavailable.

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Harold Percy Addy Harold Percy Addy was born in Newark in 1888. His father was William Henry Addy of Newark, his mother Lydia Addy (nee Warner) of Gretton. William and Lydia were married in Newark in 1888. In 1891 William and Lydia were living in Newark with their sons Harold and George. William was a fishmonger’s salesman. By 1901 Lydia Addy had moved back to Gretton with her sons Harold, George and Thomas. Lydia was a tailor’s machinist. May Shaw, a machinist, was boarding with the family. Lydia’s niece, Emma Warner, is also resident. By 1911 Harold was working for the Midland Railway as a labourer. George and Thomas were working as farm labourers. In 1913 Harold joined the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants (Kettering Branch). Harold was a platelayer. In 1915 Harold joined the National Union of Railwaymen (Gretton Branch). In 1920 Harold Percy Addy married Minnie Phillips. In 1939 Harold and Minnie were living in Kirby Road, Gretton with their son Percy. Harold was still working for the railway. Percy was working for a butchers. Harold Percy Addy died in June 1962. Military History Harold Percy Addy’s service record has not survived, but he enlisted on 12th November 1915. Initially he served as a Private (23438) in the 1st Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. Harold then served as a Private (48697) in the 11th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, then as a Private (43449) in the 3rd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. Harold served overseas although the details are currently unknown. Harold Addy was discharged from the Army on 30th July 1919. Harold’s Silver Badge No. was B276094.

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Joseph William Morris Almond Joseph William Morris Almond was born in Gretton on 25th October 1899. He was baptised in Gretton on 10th December 1899. His father was William Almond of Gretton, his mother Beatrice Almond (nee Morris) of Denford.

William and Beatrice married on 22nd July 1897 in Denford. William Almond was a baker. Beatrice Morris was a schoolmistress.

Joseph Almond attended Gretton School. On 22nd September 1913 he was admitted to Kettering Grammar School, which he attended until April 1917.

Joseph’s father William Almond died in 1913.

In 1929 Joseph Almond married Ethel Rose in Lincoln.

In 1939 Joseph, Ethel and their daughter were living in Lynn Road, Wisbech. Joseph worked as a bank cashier for the Midland Bank.

Joseph Almond died in the Peterborough district in 1953.

Military Service

On 21st November 1917 Joseph Almond enlisted in the Army in Northampton. He served as a Private (11550) in the Honourable Artillery Company.

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Valentine Leathley Armitage

Valentine Leathley Armitage was born in Heidelberg, Germany in 1888. His father was Allan Leathley Armitage born in Australia, his mother Margaret Mervyn Armitage (nee Drake) from Gravesend, Kent. Allan and Margaret married in 1888. Allan Leathley Armitage had a long career in the Church of England and was Vicar of Gretton 1914-1918.

In 1891 Allan Armitage was an assistant curate in Buckinghamshire. Allan, Margaret and Valentine were living in Chipping Wycombe.

In 1901 Allan and Margaret were living in St. Michael’s Cottage, Sandhurst, Berkshire. Valentine was a boarder living in Observatory House, Christ Church Road, Mortlake, Surrey.

Valentine attended Balliol College, Oxford.

From 1909 – 1911 Valentine Armitage was a teacher & lecturer at the University of Rennes. He was then a schoolmaster at the Grange Folkestone, at Gore Court Sittingbourne then Rossall School.

In 1911 Allan Armitage and Margaret were living in Northamptonshire. Allan was the Vicar of Earls Barton.

The Reverend Allan Armitage was the Vicar of Gretton from 1914-1918.

The London Gazette of 25th September 1914 records that Valentine Armitage was appointed 2nd Lieutenant for service with Rossall School Contingent, Junior Division, Officer’s Training Corps.

After the war, Valentine married Evelyn Muriel Nichols of Keswick on 18th August 1921 in South Kensington.

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Valentine continued his career in education.

During the Second World War Valentine served with the Intelligence Corps.

Evelyn Armitage died in 1954.

In 1955 Valentine married widow Venetia Mary Stanley Errington Hunter-Gowan. Venetia had been married to Captain Cecil Hunter-Gowan R.N. who had died during the Second World War. Valentine was Venetia’s third husband; she was originally a member of the Savile family.

Valentine Leathley Armitage died in Wiltshire in 1964.

Military Service

Valentine Leathley Armitage was a 2nd Lieutenant, then a Captain, in the Northamptonshire Regiment. He served in the 4th (Territorial) Battalion and the 7th (Service) Battalion.

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Walter Inchley Baines Walter Inchley Baines was born on 25th February 1896 in Gretton. Walter had a twin brother, Ernest Albert Baines. Both Walter and Ernest were baptised in Gretton on 19th April 1896. Their father was Robert Inchley Baines from Seaton, their mother Julia Baines from Hampshire. Robert was a farm foreman. By 1901 Robert and family had moved to Cold Newton, Billesdon, Leicestershire. With Robert and Julia were their children Alice May, Walter, Ernest, Robert and Mary. Robert’s mother Ann Baines was also resident. Robert was a farm foreman. By 1911 the family were living at Sun Rising, Banbury. Robert was a farm bailiff, whilst Julia was engaged in dairy work. Walter and Ernest (both 15) were working on a farm. Robert and Julia had two more daughters Evelyn and Violet. Walter married Lyra Christiana Dalby in 1923. In 1939 Walter and Lyra were living in Uppingham. Walter died in 1983. Military History Walter Inchley Baines enlisted into the Royal Field Artillery and was to serve as a Driver (123388) with the 1/101st Battery. He attested on 2nd March 1916. His civilian occupation was farm labourer, his residence Home Farm, Maidwell, Northamptonshire. Walter was in the Army Reserve from 2nd March until mobilisation later in the month (22nd March 1916) when he reported to the RFA Depot. Walter was in the United Kingdom until July 1916. He disembarked in India on 7th July 1916. Walter was stationed in India until 19th November 1919. He left India on 20th November 1919 arriving back in the United Kingdom on 12th December 1919. Whilst in India he suffered from malaria. Walter’s service record shows that he was awarded the North-West Frontier Medal 1919. Walter Baines was transferred to the Reserves on 16th January 1920. His home address at that time was Shepherds Bush Farm, Long Bennington near Grantham. Walter’s twin brother, Ernest Albert Baines, married Clarice Montgomery in 1924 in Middlesex. The couple were still living in Middlesex in 1939. It cannot currently be verified that Ernest served during the war, but an “E.A.Baines” also served as a Driver in the Royal Field Artillery (65364) and the Royal Engineers (311072, 601822).

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John William Barwell John William Barwell was born in Gretton on 30th March 1886. He was baptised on 2nd May 1886. His father was Thomas Barwell of Gretton, his mother Elizabeth Barwell (nee Lilleyman) of Cransley. Thomas and Elizabeth were married in 1875. In 1891 Thomas, Elizabeth and their children Lucy, John and George were living in Sanctuary End, Gretton. Thomas was employed as a slater. In 1901 John Barwell, now 15 years of age, was lodging with the Howe family in Woodford. John was employed as a railway porter. John’s father Thomas Barwell died in 1907. In 1911 John was in Gretton living with his mother and brother George. John Barwell was employed as a bricklayer’s labourer by Midland Railway Company. His brother George Barwell was a gardener at the Vicarage. In 1913 John Barwell was a member of the Gretton Branch of the National Union of Railwaymen. John’s brother George Barwell died in 1914. After the war John Barwell married Fanny Padley of Lincolnshire in 1922. John and Fanny had two children John jnr. and Nellie. In 1939 John Barwell and family were living in Stoney Lane. He was a builder’s labourer in the Engineering & Repairs Dept. His son John jnr. (b.1925) was a grocer’s assistant. John William Barwell died on 16th December 1953. He was living in Station Road, Gretton. Military History John William Barwell initially served as a Private (39192) in the Norfolk Regiment, then as a Private (52281) in the Bedfordshire Regiment.

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Benjamin Binder Benjamin Binder was born in Gretton on 27th November 1895. He was baptised on 5th January 1896 in Gretton. His father was Henry Binder from Duddington, his mother Ruth Ann Binder (nee Browett) from Thorpe by Water. Henry and Ruth had married in 1877. In 1901 Henry and Ruth were living in Gretton with their children George Thomas, Florence, and Benjamin. Their older son Arthur (b.1880) was lodging in Long Eaton. Arthur was employed as a railway engine stoker. Henry Binder was an agricultural labourer. In 1911 Henry and Ruth were living with Arthur (platelayer), Florence (machinist), Benjamin (grocer’s assistant) and youngest son Bertie. Benjamin Binder married Ivy Bonsor in Northampton in 1927. In 1939 Benjamin and Ivy were living in Adams Avenue, Northampton. Benjamin was a grocery & provisions manager. Benjamin Binder died in Northampton in 1974. Military History Benjamin Binder’s service record has not survived but from details on his medal cards he was transferred on several occasions. Initially he served as a Private (6268) with the 4th (Reserve) Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment), then as Private (202683) with the 2/4th Battalion, The Buffs. Benjamin then served as Private (32618) with the 1/5th Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment, then the 1/7th Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment. Finally Benjamin was a Private (70747) with the 22nd Battalion, Manchester Regiment. Benjamin’s brother Bertie Binder (Leonard Harold Bertram Binder b.1899) served in the Royal Flying Corps then the Royal Air Force. Whether Benjamin’s brothers George Thomas Binder or Arthur Henry Binder served in the war is currently unknown.

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Leonard Harold Bertram [Bertie] Binder Leonard Harold Bertram [Bertie] Binder was born in Gretton on 1st January 1899. His father was Henry Binder from Duddington, his mother Ruth Ann Binder (nee Browett) from Thorpe by Water. Henry and Ruth had married in 1877. In 1901 Henry and Ruth were living in Gretton with their children George Thomas, Florence, and Benjamin. Their older son Arthur (b.1880) was lodging in Long Eaton. Arthur was employed as a railway engine stoker. Henry Binder was an agricultural labourer. Visiting the family was Harold Harrison of Gretton aged 2 years old. There is no record of Bertie Binder at the property. In 1911 Henry and Ruth were living with Arthur (platelayer), Florence (machinist), Benjamin (grocer’s assistant) and youngest son Bertie. Henry was a farm labourer. In 1939 Harold B. Binder was living in Kirby Road, Gretton with his sister Florence. Harold B. Binder was a roadman for the County Council. Harold B. Binder died in 1974. Military History Leonard Harold Bertram Binder appeared before the Northamptonshire Military Tribunal on 23rd March 1917 (Case no.2993). He was a “hand-sewn bootmaker and repairer”. The reason for the appeal was “shortage of labour makes this man’s skills and services essential”. Bertie was given an exemption until 23rd April 1917. Bertie Binder joined the Royal Flying Corps on 23rd April 1917. His service number was 133256. His rank in the RFC was Air Mechanic. On the 1st April 1918 he transferred over to the newly created Royal Air Force. His rank was Private. Bertie Binder was transferred to the RAF Reserve on 10th May 1919. Bertie’s brother Benjamin Binder served during the war, initially in The Buffs (East Kent Regiment).

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John Henry [Harry] Boon John Henry Boon was born in Gretton abt. 1888. His father was John Henry Boon of Gretton, his mother Emma Boon (nee Lattimore) of Corby. John & Emma married in Gretton on 30th October 1873. In 1891 John Henry & Emma were living with their family in the Old Chapel Yard, Gretton. With them were their children John William (a shoe maker), Emma Elizabeth, John Henry, Frances Catherine & Alice. John Henry Boon Snr. was a railway platelayer. In 1901 John Henry Snr., Emma and their children Emma Elizabeth (a machinist in a clothing factory), John Henry [Harry] Jnr. (a shoe maker) & Frances were still resident in Gretton. John Henry Snr. was still employed as a railway platelayer. In 1911 the family were living in West End, Gretton. John Henry Snr., Emma, Emma Elizabeth & John Henry Jnr. (age 23) were resident. Military History Harry Boon is named on the Gretton War memorial as having “served & returned”. The exact details of his war service are currently unverified.

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John William Boon MM John William Boon was born in Gretton in 1896. He was baptised on 26th April 1896. His father was William Boon of Gretton, his mother Caroline Boon from Woodford. In 1901 William and Caroline were living in Gretton with their children Edith, John William, Lillie and Ida May. William Boon was a bricklayer’s labourer. John’s sister Edith was a machinist in a clothing factory. In 1911 the family were living in Jubilee Cottage, Gretton. William Boon was working as a labourer in an iron foundry, Edith and Lillie were working as machinists and John William Boon was engaged in “work for beer agent”. Military History

TO BE VERIFIED

John William Boon initially served as a Private (10336) in the 10th Battalion, The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Later he served in the 4th (City of London) Battalion (Royal Fusiliers) and was promoted to Lance Corporal (G/76190, 283991).

He served overseas from 6th May 1916 to 8th August 1917 then again from 29th March 1918 to 21st February 1919.

According to an article in the Kettering Leader, Private J. Boon of the Royal Fusiliers was awarded the Military Medal for bravery in the field.

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Sidney Arnold Boon Sidney Arnold Boon was born in Tottenhall, Norfolk on 1st March 1886. He was baptised on 2nd May 1886 in Tottenhall where his father was churchwarden. His father was William Boon, his mother Maria Boon both from Norfolk.

In 1891 William, Maria and their 14 children were living in Tottenhall. William Boon was a farmer.

By 1901 Sidney Arnold Boon was helping his father on Manor Farm, Tottenhall.

In 1911 Sidney Boon was a draper’s assistant working for Edward Hassan in The Parade, Oakham. Sidney was in the Gent’s Outfitting Department.

Sidney Arnold Boon married Ellen Elizabeth Weston in the Baptist Chapel, Gretton on 18th June 1916. Sidney was a Private in the 3rd (Reserve) Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment at the time.

Sidney and Ellen had a son Arnold George W Boon born in 1919.

In 1939 Sidney and Ellen were living in the High Street, Gretton. Sidney was listed as “disabled ex-serviceman”. Their son Arnold Boon was living with them.

Military History

Sidney Arnold Boon enlisted in the Army in March 1916. Initially he served as a Private (25821) in the 3rd (Reserve) Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment. The 3rd Battalion was stationed in the United Kingdom for the duration of the war.

At some date after June 1916 Sidney Boon was posted to the 2nd Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment. The 2nd Battalion was stationed in India at the outbreak of war and served overseas for the duration in Mesopotamia, Palestine and Syria.

In July 1917 Sidney Boon was admitted to hospital in Bombay due to ill health and was transferred to Cape Town, South Africa.

Sidney Arnold Boon was discharged from the Army in April 1918.

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Albert James Brewster Albert James Brewster was born in Gretton on 25th August 1878. He was baptised on 10th August 1879. His father was George Henry Brewster of Lyddington, his mother Mary Brewster (nee Langley) of Gretton. George and Mary married in 1870. In 1881 George and Mary were living in Old Chapel Yard, Gretton. George Brewster was a carpenter. With them were their children Mary, George Frederick, Albert James and Clara, all born in Gretton. By 1891 the family had relocated to Lyddington. George and Mary had three more children Arthur Thomas, Florence and Charles Langley, all born in Lyddington. Son George Frederick was working with his father as a carpenter’s labourer. In 1901 Albert James Brewster and his brother George Frederick were lodging in Hunslet, Yorkshire. Albert was a blacksmith’s striker whilst George was a railway wagon builder. By 1911 Arthur James Brewster had returned home to Lyddington. Albert was employed in engineering. Albert’s brothers Arthur and Charles were working with their father as joiners. When Arthur James Brewster enlisted in 1915 he was employed as a wireman. Arthur married May Eaton in 1919. In 1931 Arthur and May were living n Humberstone Road, Wyddeston. In 1939 Arthur, May and family were living in Leicester. Arthur was a retired GPO linesman. Albert Brewster died in Leicester in 1961. Military History Albert James Brewster enlisted on 12th June 1915 in Leicester. At the time of his enlistment he was employed as a wireman. He was to serve as a Sapper (75957) in the Royal Engineers. He served in France from 8th October 1915. He served with the 1st Telegraph Construction Company, Rhine Signal Battalion, Royal Engineers. Albert Brewster was transferred to the Army Reserves on 18th July 1919.

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John George Brooks John George Brooks was born on 23rd January 1886 in Caldecott. He was baptised on 11th July 1886. His father was Henry Brooks of Caldecott, his mother Annie Brooks (nee Tee Boon) of Gretton. Henry was a general labourer. Henry and Annie had married on 1st February 1883. John George Brooks was admitted to Caldecott Primary School on 2nd June 1890. He left the school on 22nd April 1892. In 1891 Henry, Annie and their children Susan, John George, Robert and Margaret were living in Caldecott. In 1911 Henry (now a farm foreman), Annie and children John George, Annie, George, Lucy, Harry and Robert were living in Gretton. John George Brooks was an ironstone labourer. In 1939 John and his wife Edith were living in West End, Gretton. John worked as a labourer in an iron ore quarry and was a small holder. Military History John George Brooks served as a Rifleman (R/8488) in the 1st Battalion, King’s Royal Rifle Corps. He disembarked in France on 8th April 1915. John George Brooks was transferred to the Army Reserve on 17th February 1919.

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Frederick Browett Frederick Browett was born in Belton on 8th March 1893. His father was Frederick Browett from Thorpe-by-Water, his mother Eliza Browett from Lyddington. In 1901 Frederick and Eliza were living in Belton with their children Ethel, Emily, Charles, George, Frederick jnr., Harry and Elizabeth. Frederick Browett Snr. was a shepherd. By 1911 Frederick jnr. was working as a cowman at Avenue Farm, Gretton for James and Elizabeth Stanhope. Frederick Browett married Olive Ellen Coleman in 1920. In 1939 Frederick and Olive were living in the Uppingham area. Frederick was a dairy farmer. Frederick’s widowed mother Eliza Browett were living with the couple. Military History Frederick Browett served as a Bombardier (68816) in the Royal Garrison Artillery. He attested in Kettering on 11th January 1915 and joined the RGA in Woolwich on 14th January 1915. Initially a Gunner he was promoted to Bombardier on 7th January 1917. Frederick Browett served in France from 2nd June – 18th December 1915. He was then stationed in Egypt from 19th December 1915 – 6th March 1916. He was in Mesopotamia from 7th March 1916 – 7th November 1918. His final overseas posting was in India from 8th November 1918 – 20th March 1919. He returned to the United Kingdom on 18th April 1919. Frederick Browett was transferred to the Army Reserve on 16th May 1919.

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Frederick Bruce Frederick Bruce was born in Gretton in 1885. His father was John Bruce; his mother was Charlotte Bruce. Both parents hailed from Glatton, Huntingdonshire. John Bruce was a railway signalman for Midland Railways. By 1891 John and Charlotte had moved to Rushton. With John and Charlotte were their children John Harry (b. Glatton), George Arthur, Frederick, Herbert (b. Rushton) and Lily Mary (b. Rushton). By 1901 both Frederick and his brother George were in the Army. John and Charlotte lived in Wellingborough. They were also resident there in the 1911 Census. John continued to work for the railway. Frederick Bruce first enlisted in the Army on 24th July 1901. He served as a Private (5702) in the 7th Dragoon Guards. He enlisted in Northampton. His civilian occupation was blacksmith’s striker. He was just over 18 years of age. From 24th July 1901 to the 6th October 1902 he was stationed in the United Kingdom. From 7th October 1902 to 8th August 1904 he was in South Africa. On the 1st April 1903 he was appointed as a shoeing smith. On 1st April 1904 he extended his service with the colours to complete 8 years. Frederick Bruce returned to the United Kingdom on 9th August 1904. Frederick was later to develop medical problems (a hernia), which led to him being discharged on medical grounds on 30th April 1906. Frederick Bruce married Mabel Alice Cox on 30th July 1910 in Higham Ferrers. He was resident in College Street, Higham Ferrers at the time of his marriage. Frederick and Mabel Bruce travelled to the United States of America after their marriage. They sailed to New York from Liverpool on 12th November 1910 on the Cunard ship “Carmania”. Frederick’s occupation was given as blacksmith. On Frederick’s service record, there is reference to him being in America in 1913. How long the couple were in America is currently unknown. Military History On 21st April 1917 Frederick joined the Army Service Corps (M/315587). He was resident in Knox Road, Wellingborough at the time. From 21st April 1917 to 9th September 1917 he was stationed in the United Kingdom. He disembarked in France on 10th September 1918. Apart from leave in October/November 1918, Frederick served in France until 26th February 1919 then returned to the United Kingdom.

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Frederick’s medical problems again led to complications and he was discharged on 8th April 1919 being no longer physically fit. Frederick’s brother, George Arthur Bruce, was also a professional soldier. George Arthur Bruce was born in Gretton in 1882. He was baptised in Gretton on 22nd January 1882. George Arthur Bruce served as a Private (4863) in the 7th Dragoon Guards from 3rd February 1900 and in the 5th Dragoon Guards from 1st May 1904. George saw service overseas, twice in South Africa and a spell in India. He was transferred to the Army Reserve on 26th March 1905. His spell in the Reserves ended on 2nd February 1912. It is currently unknown whether he re-enlisted when war was declared.

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Josiah Edwin Bullimore Josiah Edwin Bullimore was born in Gretton on 11th February 1900. His father was Josiah Bullimore from Exton, his mother Mary Ellen Bullimore (nee Young) from St. Pancras, London. Josiah and Mary had married in 1886. In 1901 Josiah, Mary and their children John, Hilda, William and Josiah Edwin were living in Gretton. Josiah Bullimore was a bricklayer. In 1911 Josiah was still a bricklayer working for a railway company. William Bullimore was a baker’s assistant, whilst Josiah Edwin was at school. Josiah Edwin’s father died in 1916. In 1930 Josiah Edwin Bullimore was living in Laxton with his mother. By 1931 he was living in Blatherwycke. Josiah Edwin Bullimore married Bessie Roberts in 1930. Bessie unfortunately died in 1937. In 1939 widower Josiah Edwin Bullimore was living in the Oundle area with Clara Hircock and son Roy Bullimore (b.1932). Josiah Edwin was a digger driver at an iron ore quarry. Josiah Edwin Bullimore married Clara Hircock in 1940. Josiah Edwin Bullimore died in 1975. Military History

Josiah Edwin Bullimore served as a Private (39447) in the 1st Battalion, East Surrey Regiment and as a Private (GS/108029) in the 43rd (Garrison) Battalion, Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment). Medical records detail that he was hospitalised 9th – 20th January 1919 with influenza. Records state that he had been in the field 5 months when admitted (since July/August 1918).

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Frederick Lockland Bullivant Frederick Lockland Bullivant was born in Gretton on 22nd September 1889. His middle name “Lockland” is spelt in a variety of ways (Locklin, Locklan, Laughlin) on official documents. Frederick’s father was John Hamilton Laughlin Bullivant from Pytchley, his mother Alice Hannah Bullivant (nee Butler) from Barnack. John had a variety of occupations; in 1891 he was a land surveyor & cow keeper. In 1891 John and Alice Hannah were living in Gretton with their children Alice, Ellen, John, Francis, Charles, Edith and Frederick. Frederick attended Gretton School. Frederick’s sister Alice was a machinist. The family moved to Lyddington. Frederick, Edith and brother Cecil enrolled at Lyddington Church of England School on 27th April 1897. It is recorded that Frederick left the school on 27th March 1903 to go to work. Frederick’s father John H. L. Bullivant died in 1900. In 1901 with Alice Hannah were her children Francis (a horse breaker’s assistant), Charles (a carter on a farm), Frederick, Cecil and Isabella. Cecil had been born in Gretton abt. 1893, Isabella born in Gretton abt. 1897. By 1911 Frederick was boarding with his sister Ellen Finch and family in 2 School Lane, Market Harborough. His occupation was given as labourer. Frederick Bullivant married Mary Ellen Norman in 1917. In 1939 Frederick, Mary and family were living in Connaught Road, Market Harborough. Frederick was a Goods Guard for LMS Railway. Frederick Bullivant died in Market Harborough in 1963. Military History Frederick first enlisted in the Territorial Force at Market Harborough on 24th January 1912. He was to serve as a Driver (2152) with the Lincolnshire & Leicestershire Brigade Company ASC. He gave his occupation as labourer for Mr Smith at The Old Crown, Market Harborough. Frederick attended annual training in 1912,13 & 14. Frederick was embodied on 5th August 1914. His first service in France was from 27th February 1915 when he disembarked in Le Havre. Frederick was posted to No.2

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Company, 1/1 N-Midlands Division TN. He was appointed Lance Corporal on 23rd March 1916, then Corporal on 1st April 1916. On 1st September 1916 he was posted to the Regular Army, Army Service Corps (T4/244016). His period of enlistment ended in January 1917 but under the Military Service Act 1916 his service was extended from 23rd January 1917. Whilst back in the United Kingdom, Frederick married Mary Ellen Norman in Market Harborough on 13th August 1917. His service records show that Corporal Bullivant was wounded by a shell on 12th January 1918. He was hospitalised in Boulogne. His final unit was 452 Company ASC. On 25th May 1919 Corporal Bullivant left the Army. His home address was in Orlingbury nr. Wellingborough. It is currently unknown whether Frederick’s brother, Cecil Alfred Bullivant, served during the war. Cecil was born in Gretton on 8th August 1892. He attended Lyddington Church of England School from 27th April 1897 until the family left Lyddington on 2nd March 1906. In the 1911 Census, Cecil was a farm labourer living with his mother and sister (Isabella) in Orlingbury. There is a record of a Cecil A Bullivant marrying Elizabeth Fox in 1914 in the Wellingborough district. There is a further record of a Cecil A Bullivant’s death in 1918 in Wellingborough, aged 26.

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Herbert Burnham Herbert Burnham was born in Harringworth in 1896. He was baptised on 12th April 1896 in Harringworth. His father was George Thomas Burnham from Rutland, his mother Rachel Burnham (nee Craxford) from Gretton. George and Rachel were married in 1878. In 1891 George, Rachel and their children Alfred (b. Gretton), George, Thomas (b. Gretton), Mary, Florence, Mabel, Arthur, Emma & Catherine were living in Harringworth. George Thomas Burnham was employed as a “farm servant”, whilst sons Alfred & George were “agricultural labourers”. In 1901 George and Rachel were living in Harringworth with their children Arthur, Emma, Kate, Edward and Herbert. By 1911 the family had moved to Gretton. With Thomas and Rachel were their children Edward and Herbert. Also present was a grandson of George and Rachel’s, Reginald Burnham. George Burnham was a farm labourer, his son Edward worked as a furnace labourer whilst Herbert Burnham worked for a butcher. Military History Herbert Burnham served as a Private (15871) with the 7th (Service) Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He served in France from 2nd September 1915. The 7th (Service) Battalion was part of the 73rd Brigade of the 24th Division. The Division took part in the Battle of Loos (25th September – 15th October 1915). This was the first large scale British offensive that was conducted in support of a larger French attack in the Third Battle of Artois. The Battle of Loos was historically noteworthy for the first British use of poison gas. The Grantham Journal of 9th October 1915 reported that Herbert, together with some other Gretton men serving in the 7th Battalion, had been wounded:- “Pte. Burnham wrote to his father that he had received a piece of shrapnel in the arm during the great charge, but he was getting on all right.” The Grantham Journal was able to report on 8th January 1916:- “…H. Burnham, 7th Northants, who were wounded in the engagements at the end of September, have recovered, and after passing ten days leave at their homes have gone to Colchester.”

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Herbert Burnham was discharged from the Army on 13th September 1917. Given the early date of his discharge it may be assumed that he was injured and was no longer fit for war service. Whether this may have been related to his 1915 wound or a later injury is unknown.

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John Francis (Frank) Chappell John Francis Chappell was born in Gretton in 1893. His father was John Thomas Chappell of Deene, his mother was Annie Chappell (nee Roberts) of Campton, Bedfordshire. John and Annie married in Biggleswade in 1888. In 1891 John and Annie were living in the Baker’s Shop, Gretton. John was a baker and grocer. With them was William Roberts (a relative of Annie’s) also a baker. In 1901 John and Annie were living with their children Mabel, John Francis and Muriel Annie in Gretton. Another child Blanche was born in 1903. In 1911 John Francis Chappell was living in Quorn, Leicestershire. He was apprentice to a butcher and grazier John Cart and was lodging with John and his family. John Thomas, Annie and Blanche Chappell were still living in Gretton in 1911. John Francis Chappell married Ann Davey in 1928. John’s sister Blanche Chappell married George Spendlove in 1931. John and Ann lived in Boston, Lincolnshire. John Francis Chappell died in Boston on 30th September 1939. Military History John Francis Chappell is listed on Gretton’s War Memorial as having served during the First World War. It is believed he served in the Northamptonshire Regiment.

A picture of Frank Chappell and his sister Blanche Spendlove (nee Chappell) in Gretton.

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Donald Ebenezer Cheatle Donald Ebenezer Cheatle was born in Gretton on 10th March 1894. His father was William Cheatle, his mother Fanny Amelia Cheatle (nee Clarke) both originally from Birmingham. William and Fanny had married in 1877 in Poplar, London. In 1881 William and Fanny were living in Satchell’s Yard, Gretton. William was a draper. They had a son Robert Henry Cheatle born in Gretton on 7th December 1879. George Francis Cheatle was born in 1881. Richard Melville Cheatle was born in 1890. In 1891 William and Fanny were living “near The Talbot” in Gretton. With them were their children Robert Henry, George Francis, Evelyn and Richard Melville. William was a draper & ironmonger. Donald Ebenezer Cheatle was born in 1894. By 1901 Robert and George had left home. At the time of the Census, William Cheatle’s nephews Fred (b. Kettering) & Howard (b. Lyddington) and niece Annie (b. Lyddington) were resident. William was still a draper. Some time before 1911 the family moved to London. In 1911 William, Fanny, Evelyn and Donald were living in Wandsworth. William was now an “inspector” for a magazine club. Evelyn was a typist at a shipping agent, whilst Donald was a “collector” for a magazine club. Donald’s father William Cheatle died in 1911. Donald’s occupation when he enlisted in the Royal Navy in 1916 was “waiter”. Donald Ebenezer Cheatle married Geraldine Weathrall in 1917 in Wandsworth. Donald’s sister Evelyn died in 1922. His mother Fanny Amelia Cheatle (nee Clarke) died in 1938. In 1939 Donald, Geraldine and family were living in Orpington, Kent. Donald was a “Canteen Steward”. Donald Ebenezer Cheatle died in Lambeth in 1975.

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Military History Donald Ebenezer Cheatle first served in the Royal Navy from 24th March 1916. He was an Ordinary Seaman (L8623). His record shows that he became an Officer’s Steward from 10th May 1916. On 1st April 1918 he was posted to the newly formed Royal Air Force and promoted to the rank of Sergeant (314146). He was attached to the RAF until 8th September 1918 when he returned to the Royal Navy Barracks, Chatham. Donald Ebenezer Cheatle left the Royal Navy on 11th March 1919. Donald’s brother Richard Melville Cheatle (b. Gretton 1890) served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps.

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Richard Melville Cheatle Richard Melville Cheatle was born in Gretton on 23rd June 1890. His father was William Cheatle, his mother Fanny Amelia Cheatle (nee Clarke) both originally from Birmingham. William and Fanny had married in 1877 in Poplar, London. In 1881 William and Fanny were living in Satchell’s Yard, Gretton. William was a draper. They had a son Robert Henry Cheatle born in Gretton on 7th December 1879. George Francis Cheatle was born in 1881. Richard Melville Cheatle was born in 1890. In 1891 William and Fanny were living “near The Talbot” in Gretton. With them were their children Robert Henry, George Francis, Evelyn and Richard Melville. William was a draper & ironmonger. Donald Ebenezer Cheatle was born in 1894. By 1901 Robert and George had left home. At the time of the Census, William Cheatle’s nephews Fred (b. Kettering) & Howard (b. Lyddington) and niece Annie (b. Lyddington) were resident. William was still a draper. Some time before 1911 the family moved to London. In 1911 William, Fanny, Evelyn and Donald were living in Wandsworth. William was now an “inspector” for a magazine club. Evelyn was a typist at a shipping agent, whilst Donald was a “collector” for a magazine club. Richard’s father William Cheatle died in 1911. Richard Melville Cheatle married Valerie Irene Codd in Wandsworth in 1912. Unfortunately Valerie died in 1917. Richard remarried in Lambeth in 1918 to Bertha Dorothy Holton. Richard’s sister Evelyn died in 1922. His mother Fanny Amelia Cheatle (nee Clarke) died in 1938. In 1939 Richard and Bertha were living in Maldon and Coombe, Surrey. Richard Cheatle was a “daily journalist”.

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Richard Melville Cheatle died in Surrey on 8th March 1951. Military History Richard Melville Cheatle (25624) served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps. Richard attested in Kingston, Surrey on 28th December 1916. His home address was The Grove, Wandsworth, his civilian occupation “secretary”. Richard’s brother Donald Cheatle served in the Royal Navy 1916 – 1919. Donald was briefly attached to the RAF for a few months in 1918.

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John Norman Clark John Norman Clark was born on 15th March 1900 in Pytchley. His father was John Henry Clark of Isham, his mother Georgina Clark from Leicestershire. In 1901 John, Georgina and their children Marjorie and John were living in The Elms, Pytchley. John Henry Clark was a farmer and grazier. The Clark’s employed a domestic servant Sarah Coles of Broughton. By 1911 the family had moved to The Yews, Gretton. John Henry Clark was described as a retired farmer. The Clark’s employed a domestic servant Ester Waterfield of Gretton. John Norman Clark attended Kettering Grammar School from September 1912 to July 1915. John Norman Clark married Edith A Northen in 1937. In 1939 John and Edith were living in West Hill. John was described as a “cattle transporter”. Military History John Norman Clark served in the Royal Navy from October 1915 to 1928, commencing service as a “Boy”. His service number was J45448.

During the last few months of the war he served on HMS Repulse. HMS Repulse was a Renown-class battle cruiser of the Royal Navy built during the First World War.

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Samuel Sydney Clarke Samuel Sydney Clarke was born in Gretton on 30th June 1886. He was baptised on 1st August 1886. His father was Samuel Clarke of Lyddington, his mother Anne Clarke (nee Coles) of Gretton. His father was a labourer.

In 1901 Samuel and Anne were living in Gretton with their son Samuel Sydney Clarke. Samuel Snr. was a bricklayer.

In 1911 widower Samuel Clarke and his son were still living in Gretton. Samuel Sydney Clarke was employed as an ironstone labourer.

Samuel Sydney Clarke was living in Luton at the time he enlisted and returned to Luton after the war.

In 1939 Samuel Sydney Clarke was living in May Street, Luton. He was employed as an engineering inspector in the motor trade. With him was Mabel Selwyn O’Dell (b. 1899).

Samuel Sydney Clarke died in Luton in 1946.

Military Service

Samuel Sydney Clarke joined the Army on 2nd September 1914 in Luton. He was to serve as a Private (14268, 5943711) in the Bedfordshire Regiment. His next of kin was named as his father Samuel and his older sister Florence Isabella Tigwell (nee Clarke). Initially he was in the 7th Battalion but also was posted to the 3rd, 4th and finally the 8th Battalion. He served in France from 26th July 1915 – 8th July 1916, from the 31st August 1916 – 5th May 1917 and finally the 31st July – 29th December 1917. Private Clarke was posted to the 8th Battalion on 19th August 1917. Private Clarke was wounded on at least three occasions in July 1916, in June 1917 and most seriously in December 1917. On 22nd December 1917 he suffered gunshot wounds to his right arm, right foot and left leg. He was sent back to the United Kingdom on 30th December 1917 and was in hospital for a long period. He was not discharged from Edmonton Military Hospital until September 1920. Samuel Sydney Clarke was discharged from the Army on 23rd September 1920.

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Issac Clipson Issac Clipson was born in Gretton on 26th February 1887. His father was Issac Clipson, his mother Mary Ann Clipson (nee Wyman) both of Gretton. Issac and Mary were married in Gretton on 5th May 1870. Issac’s mother, Mary Ann Clipson died in 1888, less than a year after his birth. Mary was buried in Gretton on 24th October 1888. In 1891 Issac was employed as a general labourer. His children varied in ages, and older children Emma (25), Caroline (18) and William (14) probably helped raise Mary Jane (8) and Issac (4). By 1901 Issac now 14 was living with George Stanger, his wife Elizabeth Stanger (nee Wyman) and their family in Netherfield, Carlton, Nottinghamshire. Issac was employed as a “hosiery pant dryer”. Also resident was 83 year old William Wyman. Issac was George and Elizabeth’s nephew. By 1911 Issac was working as a farm labourer living with Arthur Atkin, Mary Jane Atkin (Issac’s sister) and family in Smith Lane, Morcott nr. Uppingham. Military History Issac Clipson enlisted in the 5th (Reserve) Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment. He was living in Lime Cottages, Barrowden with the Sanders family and was employed as a farm labourer. Grantham Journal – 16th January 1915 Barrowden - The Village Roll Call – Issac Clipson, who resided with the family [Sanders] which has just experienced bereavement through the dreadful war, has this week enlisted in the Leicestershire Regiment. Issac was engaged to Gertrude Sanders. Gertrude’s brother was Pte. Alfred Edwin Sanders (11020) of the Coldstream Guards. Alfred Sanders was killed in action on the 30th December 1914, aged 22. Issac Clipson served as a Private (241306) with the 2/5th Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment from 11th January 1915. Issac Clipson married Gertrude Sanders in 1915 in Barrowden near Uppingham. A son Roy Clipson was born in September 1917.

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Grantham Journal - 28th August 1915 Clipson-Sanders – At St. Peter’s Church, Barrowden, on the 13th inst. (by the Rev. A.E.Hutchings) Pte. Issac Clipson to Gertrude Annie Sanders of Barrowden. Issac Clipson served in France from 25th February to 30th December 1917. On 24th December 1917 he was involved in an accident at camp which caused burns to his face and arms. Issac Clipson was transferred to the 2/6th Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment (260122) on 30th March 1918 and then to the 1/5th Battalion on 25th May 1918. Issac was transferred to the Army Reserves on 19th March 1919. In 1939 Issac, Gertrude and family were living near Stamford. Issac was employed as a general labourer. It is not currently known if Issac’s older brother William Webster Clipson served during the war. William was born in Gretton in 1877. He was baptised in Gretton on 1st April 1877. In 1911 he was living in Huntingdon with his family, working as a horseman on a farm.

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Elijah Coleman Elijah Coleman was born in Gretton on 17th October 1893. He was baptised on 10th December 1893. His father was John Henry Coleman of Seaton, Rutland, his mother Louisa Coleman (nee Barwell) of Gretton. John and Louisa had married in 1890. In 1901 John, Louisa and their children Arthur, Elijah, Albert, Sarah Ann and Lucy were living in Gretton. John Coleman was an agricultural labourer. Elijah’s mother Louisa Coleman died in 1906 and was buried in Gretton. By 1911 John Henry Coleman and his sons Elijah and Albert were farm labourers. Elijah Coleman married Ann Humphrey in 1927. In 1939 Elijah and Ann were living in Kirby Road, Gretton. Elijah was an “ironstone platelayer”. Elijah Coleman died in 1948. Military History

Elijah Coleman served as a Private (14787) in the Northamptonshire Regiment. His service record has not survived. Elijah was transferred to the Army Reserve on 7th March 1919.

Two of Elijah’s brothers served in the war. Albert Coleman served with the Northamptonshire Regiment and was killed in action in March 1915. His brother Arthur Coleman also served with the Northamptonshire Regiment and died shortly after the war ended in December 1918 from injuries sustained compounded by pulmonary tuberculosis and pneumonia.

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Frederick John Coleman Frederick John Coleman was born in Gretton on 27th January 1899. He was baptised in Gretton on 2nd April 1899. His father was James Coleman from Barrowden, his mother Ellen Coleman from Oxfordshire. In 1901 James and Ellen were living in Gretton with their children Percival, Frederick, Mary, Charles, Johanna and Olive, all born in Gretton. Charles and Johanna were twins. In 1924 Frederick Coleman married Martha Rudkin.1

In 1939 Frederick, Martha and family were living in The Nook, Gretton. Frederick was employed as a farm labourer and milkman. Military History Frederick Coleman joined the Army on 30th April 1917. He was resident at Ironstone House, Gretton. He was employed as a farm labourer. Initially he was a Private (TR/9/10894) in the 27th Battalion, Training Reserve. He transferred to the 24th Battalion on 28th June 1917. Frederick was to serve in the Labour Corps (323861) and the Royal Army Service Corps (M/411830). There is also reference in his service papers that survive, that he was temporarily with the 1st (Reserve) Garrison Battalion, The King’s Own (Yorkshire Light Infantry) from 22nd November 1918 in Ireland. The battalion had been stationed in Ireland from May 1918. It is recorded that Frederick Coleman was transferred to the Army Reserve on 9th January 1920. Frederick’s brother Percival James Coleman served in the Royal Garrison Artillery during the war.

1 Source – “Taking Stock of WW1” Gretton Local History Society (April 2016)

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Percival James Coleman Percival James Coleman was born in Gretton on 6th August 1892. Percival was baptised on 2nd October 1892 in Gretton. His father was James Coleman from Barrowden, his mother Ellen Coleman from Oxfordshire. In 1901 James and Ellen were living in Gretton with their children Percival, Frederick, Mary, Charles, Johanna and Olive, all born in Gretton. Charles and Johanna were twins. Currently Percival James Coleman cannot be identified on the 1911 Census. There are records of a P J Coleman travelling to the United States of America twice in the 1900’s. Percival James Coleman did join the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants in 1912. He was working as a railway porter in Coventry. In 1916 Percival joined the National Union of Railwayman’s Coventry Branch. He was employed as a loader with the Great Western Railway. Percival James Coleman was still a member of the National Union of Railwaymen in Coventry in 1925. He was employed by the railway as a “checker”. In 1939 Percival and Beatrice Coleman were still living in Coventry with their son. Percival was a school caretaker. Military History Percival James Coleman enlisted for the Army on 9th November 1915 in Warwick. He was living in Coventry, his occupation loader. He gave his next of kin as his father James Coleman of Iron Stone Cottage, Gretton, Northamptonshire. Percival was a Gunner (158514) in the Royal Garrison Artillery. Gunner Percival Coleman was mobilised on 25th April 1917. He served in the United Kingdom until 23rd October 1917. During this period he married Beatrice May Shepherd in Witney, Oxfordshire. He was sent to France on 24th October 1917. He was stationed in France until 13th October 1918, then returned to the United Kingdom. Gunner Percival James Coleman was transferred to the Army Reserves on 7th November 1911. There is reference on a discharge document to his permanent

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address being “Japonica Cottage, Gretton” although it is known he eventually returned to Coventry and continued to work for the railway. Percival’s brother Frederick Coleman (b. Gretton 1899) served in the Reserve Battalion.1

1 Source – “Taking Stock of WW1” Gretton Local History Society (April 2016)

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Edward William Coles Edward William Coles was born in Gretton on 28th March 1898. His father was Samuel Coles of Gretton, his mother Ellen Coles (nee Sculthorpe) from Lincolnshire. Samuel and Ellen married in 1897. In 1901 Samuel, Ellen and their children Edward William and Ellen were living in Gretton. Samuel was an ironstone labourer. Also resident were relatives of Ellen’s, Ada and Alice Sculthorpe. Ada and Alice were employed as tailor’s machinists. By 1911 the family were living in New Cottages, Market Overton. With Samuel and Ellen were their children, Edward William, Ellen, Jessie, Sam, Ada and Dorothy. Sam and Ada were both born in Newton. Another relative of Ellen’s, Emma Sculthorpe was resident as housekeeper. Samuel Coles was employed as an ironstone foreman. Edward William Coles married Harriet A Stubbs in 1922. In 1939 Edward and Harriet were living in Melton Road, Langham. Edward was a private gardener. Military History Edward William Coles was deemed to have been enlisted on 27th March 1917. He was called-up on 29th June 1918. He was resident in Market Overton.

His last civilian occupation was “shunter” with James Pain Ltd., Kettering.

Edward served as a Private (5/174162) with the 113th Training Reserve Battalion from 4th July 1918, then as a Private (187873) with “E” Machine Gun Corps Training Battalion from 7th September 1918.

Edward William Coles was transferred to the Army Reserve in 1919.

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Mary Evelyn Dudley Mary Evelyn Dudley was born in Gretton on 9th January 1885. Mary was baptised on 5th April 1885. Her father was William Joseph Williamson Dudley of Titchmarsh, her mother Marian Dudley (nee Wood) of Clapton. William and Marian had married in 1876. In 1891 William, Marian and their children William Jnr., Rowland, Thomas and Mary were living at Harborough Hill, Gretton. William Dudley was a farmer & grazier. The family employed three domestic servants. In 1901 Mary Evelyn Dudley was a pupil at Crescent House Ladies College, Bedford. In 1911 Mary was resident with her brother William Wood Dudley in Seaton. William was a farmer. Mary was housekeeper and poultry rearer. Mary’s father William J. W. Dudley died in Gretton on 7th October 1922. In the Electoral Roll of 1930 Mary and her mother were at Harborough Hill. By 1939 Mary and her mother were living at The Malting, Gretton. They had a housekeeper Sarah E. Hill. First World War History Mary Evelyn Dudley served with the Voluntary Aid Department, specifically the British Red Cross Society & St. John. Her certificate number was 15566, her passport number 178431. In 1916 & 1917 Mary served as a nurse at Uppingham Auxiliary Hospital followed by 4 months at Brook Hospital, Chailey, Sussex. Brook House was a private residence used as a convalescent hospital for Royal Flying Corps officers from 1917. On 20th August 1917 Mary took up the post of Cook at St. Dunstan’s Blackheath Auxiliary Hospital. From 25th January 1918 to 22nd February 1919 Mary was posted to Bordighera in the Liguria region of Italy as Head Cook. Mary’s pay on commencement was £39 per annum rising to £48 15s. by the time Mary left Italy.

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Walter Fursdon Walter Fursdon was born in Gretton on 1879. He was baptised in Gretton a few years later on 1st March 1885 (the same day as his siblings Mary, James & William). Walter’s father was Thomas Fursdon from Devon, his mother was Christiana Ann Fursdon (nee Jones) from Gretton.

Christiana Ann Jones had married Joseph Inckle in 1870. They had three children Mary Ann, Sarah Jones & Thomas Henry. Joseph Inckle died in 1876.

Christiana married Thomas Fursdon on 20th January 1879.

In 1881 Thomas & Christiana were living in Gretton. Thomas was an agricultural labourer. With Thomas & Christiana were their children Mary Ann Inckle, Sarah Jones Inckle, Thomas Henry Inckle, Walter Fursdon & Mary Fursdon. Also resident was a lodger Henry Jones of Gretton (possibly a relative of Christiana).

In 1891 the family were living in The Nook, Gretton. Thomas Fursdon was a general labourer. Sarah Jones Inckle was a tailoress. Walter Fursdon was also a general labourer. Other children resident were James, William, Grace & Florence.

Thomas & Christiana had two more children Robert b. 1892 & John Thomas b. 1894.

In 1901 Walter Fursdon was a boarder in Carlton Street, Kettering at the home of Robert & Florence Taylor of Spalding. Walter was employed as a “fireman on railway”.

Walter Fursdon (railway fireman) of Hawthorne Road, Kettering married Rose Starmer (domestic servant) of Station Road, Kettering in St. Andrew’s Church, Kettering on 13th June 1902.

In 1903 Walter, Rose and daughter Florence Christine were living in Buccleuch Street, Kettering. In 1905 the family had moved to King Street. In 1909 the family were living in Rose, Cottage, Duke Street, Kettering.

In 1911 Walter & Rose were living in Bath Road, Kettering with their children Florence Christine, Thomas Walter & Herbert Arthur. Another child Margaret had died in infancy in 1909. Walter Fursdon was employed by the Urban District Council as an “engine driver electricity works”.

Walter’s mother Christiana Ann Fursdon (nee Jones) died in 1923. Walter’s father Thomas Fursdon died in 1924.

At some stage the Fursdon family emigrated to New Zealand. Daughter Florence Christine Fursdon married in New Zealand. Son Herbert Arthur Fursdon died in Waikato, New Zealand in November 1955.

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Son Thomas Walter Fursdon served as a Private (21285) in the 21st Battalion, New Zealand Army. Thomas died on 22nd November 1941 at the age of 36 whilst serving in North Africa. Thomas is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission record that Thomas was the son of Walter and Rose Fursdon of Owhango, Auckland, New Zealand.

Military Service

Walter Fursdon is listed on the Gretton War Memorial as having served & returned during the First World War. The exact details of Walter’s war service are unknown. He may be the “Walter Fursdon” listed as serving as a Sapper (97629) in the Royal Engineers, particularly given his employment on the railways. If this is the same Walter Fursdon, he served in France from 19th December 1915 and was transferred to the Army Reserve on 19th March 1919. Walter’s brother James Fursdon (b. 1883 Gretton) served as a Private in the Royal Army Medical Corps. James Fursdon was killed in action on 24th July 1916. Walter’s brother Robert Fursdon (b. 1892 Gretton) served in the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment.

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Joseph Woodcock Gimber Joseph Woodcock Gimber was born in Gretton in 1895. He was baptised in Gretton on 24th March 1895. His father was John Thomas Gimber of Kingscliffe, his mother Susan Gimber (nee Homan) of Gretton. John and Susan were married in Gretton on 30th June 1892. John’s occupation was labourer. In 1901 John and Susan were living in Gretton. John was employed as an ironstone labourer. With John and Susan were their children John Robert, Joseph Woodcock, Elizabeth, Nellie and George all born in Gretton. Susan Gimber died 28th July 1909 and was buried in Gretton. By 1911 John Gimber was living at Storefield Cottages, Newton nr. Geddington. John was still employed as an ironstone labourer as were his sons, John Robert and Joseph Woodcock. Elizabeth Gimber was occupied with housework whilst Nellie, George and youngest son Sidney (b. Gretton) were at school. Joseph Gimber married Elsie Gertrude Bates of Rushton in 1926. He died in Hampshire in 1967. Military History Joseph Woodcock Gimber enlisted before the First World War (9th March 1914). He served as Private (16967) in the 1st Battalion, Grenadier Guards. Private Gimber served overseas from 12th November 1914. Guardsman Gimber was discharged from the Reserve Battalion, Grenadier Guards on 15th May 1918. The cause of his discharge was optic neuritis. His Silver Badge number was 392581.

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Joseph Hastings Joseph Hastings was born in Gretton on 30th January 1878. He was baptised in Gretton on 4th March 1878. His father was Tom Hastings, his mother Sarah Hastings. Tom Hastings was a draper. In 1881 Joseph Hastings was staying with his uncle Thomas Chambers an agricultural labourer in North Street, Gretton. Also resident were Thomas Chamber’s nieces Elizabeth Hastings (age 31) and Annie E. Hastings (age 6). In 1901 Joseph is living in Sheffield with his wife Edith Florence Hastings and their daughter Doris E. Hastings. Joseph was a pork butcher. In 1911 Joseph and family were living in Belgrave Gate, Leicester. Joseph and Edith had another daughter Elizabeth Madge Hastings. On the census form it is noted that a son Thomas Harold Hastings had died in childhood. Joseph was still a pork butcher running his own business assisted by Edith. When Joseph attested in 1917 the family were living in Wharf Street, Leicester. It is believed that Joseph Hastings died in Leicester in 1931. Military Service

Joseph Hastings initially enlisted in the Royal Navy on 29th August 1917 (service number F36628). Joseph was to serve in the Royal Naval Air Service. On 1st April 1918 Joseph transferred to the newly formed Royal Air Force (service number 236628). Joseph Hastings was transferred to the Reserves on 26th February 1919 and deemed discharged on 30th April 1920.

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William Ingram William Ingram was born in Gretton on 12th March 1893. He was baptised in Corby on 28th May 1893. His baptism record states that the family had lived in Gretton but were in Corby at that time. His father was William Ingram of Gretton, his mother Eliza Ingram (nee Currell) of Benefield. William & Eliza had married on 19th April 1892 in Corby.

In 1901 William, Eliza and son William had returned to Gretton. William Snr. was employed as a bricklayer for a railway company.

By 1911 William Ingram Jnr. was employed as a butcher’s apprentice.

William’s mother Eliza Ingram (nee Currell) died in Gretton in 1931.

William Ingram Jnr. married Edith Binns in 1921. Edith died in Boston, Lincolnshire in 1934.

In 1939 William Ingram Jnr. was resident in Spalding Road, Boston. William was a journeyman butcher. His father retired bricklayer William Ingram Snr. was also resident.

William’s father William Ingram Snr. died in 1940.

William Ingram remarried in Boston in 1947 to Caroline Bedford of Sheffield.

It is recorded that a William Ingram of “Carwill”, Station Road, Gretton died on 26th May 1963. Probate was given to Caroline Ingram widow.

Military Service

William Ingram is listed on Gretton’s Roll of Honour as having served & returned. Exact details of his service record are currently unknown. Gretton History Society has reference to William serving in the Gloucestershire Regiment during the First World War.

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Arthur Sidney Jacques Arthur Sidney Jacques was born in Gretton on 22nd March 1893. He was baptised in Gretton on 6th May 1893. His father was Frederick Jacques a labourer from Gretton, his mother Margaret Jacques (nee Cross) from Huntingdonshire. In 1901 Frederick, Margaret and children Sidney and Beatrice were living with Margaret’s parents John and Mary Cross and her brother Leonard Cross. Frederick was a bricklayer’s labourer. By 1911 John Cross had died leaving Mary and Leonard Cross living with Frederick and family. Sidney Jacques was a farm labourer whilst Beatrice worked in a clothing factory. By 1913 Sidney Jacques was working as a labourer for the railway. Sidney joined the National Union of Railwaymen’s Gretton Branch in 1913. In 1939 Arthur Sidney Jacques was living in Kirby Road and was working as a bricklayer’s labourer at the Corby Steel Works. He died in 1970. Military History Sidney Jacques service record has not survived but it is known that he started his service in the South Staffordshire Regiment (27138), then transferred to the Leicestershire Regiment (30870) before finally serving in the Royal Engineers (206574, WR/261019). According to newspaper reports he was wounded in late 1917. Both the Northampton Mercury and the Kettering Leader of 4th January 1918 reported that he was being treated in a Canadian Hospital in France having been “…badly wounded in the left hand and was buried in a shell hole”.

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Cornelius Daniel Jinks MM

Cornelius Daniel Jinks was born in Gretton on 15th September 1893. His father was John Jinks of Huntingdonshire, his mother Mary Ann Jinks (nee Boon). In 1891 John and Mary were living in West End, Gretton with their children Robert William, John Thomas, Eliza, Isabella, Annie, Henry Leedieg, Mary and Margaret. John Jinks was a railway labourer whilst his sons Robert and John Thomas were general labourers. In 1901 John Jinks was working for Midland Railway as a platelayer. With John and Mary were their children Henry (an agricultural labourer), Mary, Margaret, Benjamin and Cornelius. In 1911 the family were living in Nook End, Gretton. Mary and Margaret were working as sewing machinists. Cornelius was working in Corby as an ironstone labourer. Cornelius Jinks married Rose Underwood in September 1924. They had two sons Reginald (b.1926) and Bernard (b.1929). In 1939 Cornelius, Rose and family were living in Kirby Road, Gretton. Cornelius was a gate keeper at a railway crossing. Cornelius Jinks resident of Southfields Road, Gretton died on 25th April 1960. He is buried in the Baptist Chapel. Military History

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Cornelius Daniel Jinks served as a Lance Corporal (15255) in the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. His service record has not survived but he disembarked in France on 1st September 1915. The Grantham Journal of 13th May 1916 reported that Cornelius Jinks had been slightly wounded in the face when a barn was shelled by the Germans. It further reported that Lance Corporal Sidney Lenton (also of Gretton) was mortally wounded in the same attack. The Grantham Journal of 9th October 1915 reported that Private Jinks had written home to indicate that he was progressing favourably, having been slightly wounded in the neck. The Northampton Mercury of 5th November 1915 reported that he had been wounded. According to a newspaper report in the Northampton Mercury of 20th October 1916 Lance Corporal C. Jinks was awarded the Military Medal. Cornelius Jinks was discharged from the Army on 13th August 1918. His brother Benjamin Jinks served in the Grenadier Guards and was killed in action in September 1916.

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Daniel William Knapp Daniel William Knapp was born in Gretton abt. 1876. He was baptised in Gretton on 6th August 1882. His father was Thomas Knapp, his mother Elizabeth Knapp (nee Smith) both from Gretton. Thomas and Elizabeth had married in Gretton on 19th November 1853. In 1881 Thomas and Elizabeth were in Gretton with their children Sarah Ann, Mary, Ethel, Millicent and William. Thomas was an agricultural labourer. Sarah Ann and Mary were employed as servants. In 1891 Thomas and Elizabeth were living with their children Millicent and William and their grandson Cecil. William Whitmee was lodging with them. Thomas Knapp was still an agricultural labourer. By 1901 William Knapp had moved to London. He was boarding in St. Marylebone with William and Mary Ann Norman and their daughter Beatrice. William was employed as a general labourer. On 26th December 1907 William Knapp married widow Mary Ann Norman, his former landlady. They were resident in Carlisle Street, London. In 1911 William, Mary Ann and step-daughter Beatrice were living in Henry Place, St. John’s Wood, St. Marylebone. Daniel was employed as a bricklayer and general labourer. Military History William Knapp attested for the Army on 6th December 1915. William was to serve as a Sapper (175903) in the Royal Engineers. William was in the Army Reserves until he was mobilised on 29th August 1916. From the fragments of his service record that have survived, William was employed as a tunneller. William was in France from 26th September 1916 to the 27th January 1919. He was with 177 Company. It is noted that he suffered a gunshot wound to the head on 5th April 1917, recovered and returned to duty. He was transferred to the Army Reserve on 24th July 1919.

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Frederick William Knapp Frederick William Knapp was born in Gretton in 1890. He was baptised in Gretton on 4th January 1891. His father was Frederick Knapp of Gretton, his mother Sarah Ann Knapp (nee Chandler) originally from Huntingdonshire. Frederick and Sarah were married in Gretton on 9th June 1889. During the 1891 Census, Frederick Snr. was at home in West End, Gretton. His occupation was ironstone labourer. His wife Sarah and their young son Frederick jnr. were visiting relatives near to St. Neots. By 1901 the family had relocated to Yorkshire and were living near Leeds. Frederick Snr. was a gas works stoker. With Frederick and Sarah were their children Frederick jnr., Annie (b. Gretton), Violet (b. Gretton), Elizabeth and Gladys. By 1911 Frederick William Knapp jnr. was, like his father, working for the Gas Department of the Leeds Corporation. He was boarding with Albert Wetherill and his family. Albert also worked for the Gas Department. Military History Fragments of Frederick’s service record have survived. He enlisted in Leeds on 21st June 1915. He was still working for the Gas Department. He originally served as a Private (16262) in the Coldstream Guards. Frederick served in France with the Guards although exact dates are unknown. It is recorded that he was wounded whilst in France on 8th September 1916; details vary from shrapnel wound to gunshot wound. Frederick was in the 1st Southern General Hospital, Edgbaston from 12th September – 23rd October 1916. He was then transferred to Woodcote Convalescent Hospital, Epsom from 23rd October – 14th November 1916. He was discharged back to duty. On 22nd March 1918 Frederick joined the Royal Flying Corps (service no. 134680). He was in France from 22nd March 1918 to 18th February 1919, although he must have received a furlough around 22nd January 1919 as he got married in Leeds. On 1st April 1918 Frederick together with others in the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service transferred to the newly created Royal Air Force. Frederick served as an Air Mechanic. Frederick was transferred to the Air Force Reserve on 30th March 1919 and was deemed discharged on 20th April 1920.

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As stated above, Frederick Knapp had married on 22nd January 1919 to Ethel A Crossley in Leeds.

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Walter Knight

Walter Knight was born on 16th March 1900 in Gretton. His father was John Robert Knight; his mother was Annie Knight (nee Spriggs) originally from Benefield.

In the 1901 Census John Knight was employed as a railway labourer with the Midland Railway. With John and Annie were their children Herbert, Maggie, Nellie and Walter.

In the 1911 Census the family were still living in Gretton and John was still employed with the Midland Railway as a platelayer. Son Herbert was employed as a shunter at an ironstone works. John and Annie had four more children, Dorothy Annie, John Robert, Horace Albert and Frank. Walter was at school.

Military History

On 17th April 1915, Walter Knight enlisted in Leicester and served as a Private (3/17893) with the 3rd Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment. On his enlistment papers he gave his age as 19 years 31 days and his occupation as labourer.

Walter Knight was 15 years of age.

One hundred and thirty one days later, on 25th August 1915, Private Walter Knight was discharged from the Army. The reason given “having made a mis-statement as to age”.

On 16th April 1918 Walter Knight, then 18 years of age, re-enlisted joining as a Private (60539) with the 5th (Reserve) Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment. Walter did cite his previous service with the Leicestershire Regiment. His preferred regiment was the Royal Field Artillery.

His elder brother Herbert had served as a Sergeant with the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He had been killed in action on 16th June 1917 aged 26 years.

According to Walter’s service records there was no indication that he served overseas. There was mention of Walter sustaining an injury whilst training in May 1918. Walter was discharged from the Army in June 1919. His records note that he was discharged as “permanently unfit”, perhaps a reference back to the earlier injury. His rank was Acting/Lance Corporal.

Walter died at the age of 29 and is buried in the Parish Churchyard in Gretton.

His brother Herbert is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing, Ypres, Belgium and the Gretton War Memorial.

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Joseph Langley Joseph Langley was born in Gretton on 7th March 1886. His father was George William Tee Boon, his mother Alice Tee Boon (nee Langley). George and Alice married in Gretton on 6th May 1886. In 1891 George, Alice and their children Joseph, Mary, Frances and Sarah were living in Gretton. George was an ironstone labourer. In 1901 Joseph Langley was resident with his grandparents in Gretton Thomas & Ann Langley. Thomas was an agricultural labourer. Also resident was Joseph’s uncle Samuel Langley who was an “engine cleaner (ironstone)”. Joseph Langley was an agricultural labourer. Joseph’s immediate family were living nearby. George & Alice had three more children George, Leonard and Cora. In 1911 Joseph was living back with his parents. Joseph was now an ironstone labourer. Mary, Frances and Sarah were machinists. Joseph’s brothers George & Leonard were farm labourers. George & Alice had two more children Annie & Thomas. Records show that Joseph Langley joined the National Union of Railwaymen (NUR) Gretton Branch on 29th May 1915. He was a labourer working for the Midland Railway Company. Joseph’s mother Alice Tee Boon (nee Langley) died in 1930. Joseph’s father George William Tee Boon died in 1932. In 1939 Joseph Langley was resident in Kirby Road, Gretton with his sister Mary Tee Boon. Joseph was a platelayer at Corby Steelworks. Mary was a sewing machinist. Joseph Langley died in 1965. Military Service

According to the Gretton War Memorial, Joseph Langley served in the Armed Forces during the First World War. It is believed that he served in the Middlesex Regiment.

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Percy James Lattimer Percy James Lattimer was born in Gretton on 2nd March 1898. His father was James Lattimer from Barnack, his mother Elizabeth Lattimer (nee Oldham) from Essendine.

In 1901 James, Elizabeth and their children Walter, Ernest, Dora and Percy were living in Gretton. James was employed as a railway platelayer whilst son Walter was a bricklayer’s labourer. Older children Annie, Eleanor, Sarah and Emma were not at the property.

Percy’s sister Emma Lattimer married Samuel Cottingham in Gretton in September 1910.

In 1911 only James, Elizabeth, Ernest and Percy were recorded at the property. Both James and Ernest were railway platelayers.

In 1916 Percy James Lattimer was recorded as being a member of the National Union of Railwaymen (Market Harborough Branch). He was 18 years old, his occupation was recorded as “Machine Youth”.

In 1918 both Ernest and Percy were recorded on the Electoral Register in Gretton.

Percy James Lattimer married Elsie Clements in Loughborough in 1919.

It is documented that during 1926 – 1931 Percy and Elsie were resident in Burder Street, Loughborough.

In 1939 Percy J Lattimer (railway guard) and Elsie were living with his brother-in-law and sister (Edward and Emma Cottingham) at Sandpit Farm, Kettering District. Edward Cottingham was a farmer.

Edward Cottingham died in 1953. Percy Lattimer, still a railway guard, was named in probate records.

Percy James Latimer died in Leicester in 1965.

Military Service

Percy James Lattimer served as a Private (45169) in the 2/5th Battalion, Leicester Regiment then the 1st Battalion, Leicester Regiment. His full service record has not survived.

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Arthur Layfield Arthur Layfield was born in Gretton in 1895. There is no record of his baptism although his older brother, William, was baptised in Gretton on 3rd June 1894. His father was William Layfield originally from Bristol, his mother Ada Maria Layfield of Bath. William was a railway signalman. By 1901 the family had moved to Irchester. With William and Ada were their two sons William jnr. and Arthur. The family were still in Irchester in 1911. William jnr. was employed as a “pupil teacher” at a county council school. Arthur was a grocer’s assistant with the Co-operative. Military History Arthur Layfield enlisted in February 1916. His occupation at that time was “clicker”. He served as a Private (23419) in the Northamptonshire Regiment. He was initially in the 3rd Battalion from 28th February – 8th March 1916, then the 2nd Battalion until 20th July 1916. He went overseas on the 20th July 1916 joining the 1st Battalion. There is record that he suffered multiple leg wounds in September 1916 but re-joined the battalion. Prior to his discharge, he was in Northampton Hospital for a spell (November 1918) but again re-joined his battalion overseas. Private Arthur Layfield was discharged to the Reserves on 22nd February 1919. An “Arthur Layfield” born 1895 died in Wellingborough in 1967.

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Walter Leonard Maddocks Walter Leonard Maddocks was born in Gretton on 1st December 1894. His father was John Miller Maddocks of Little Bowden, his mother Catherine Maddocks (nee Wills) of Thrapston. John and Catherine were married in 1881. John Maddocks was a coachman.

In 1901 John and Catherine were living in Green Lane, Kettering. With John and Catherine were their children Ethel Ann (a machinist), Linda, Charles (b. Weldon), Walter, Madeline, Gertrude and Horace. John was a domestic groom.

By 1911 Linda was a boot fitter, whilst both Charles and Walter were working for an engineering firm. Gertrude was a machinist and Horace, still at school, was employed as a grocer’s errand boy.

Walter Leonard Maddocks married Hilda A. Issitt in Kettering in 1921.

In 1939 Walter, Hilda and family were living in King Street, Kettering. Walter was employed as a “fitter wood last maker”.

Walter Leonard Maddocks died in 1965.

Military Service

Walter Leonard Maddocks (b. Gretton 1894), served as a Private (15089) in the 5th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He served in France from 25th July 1915 and was transferred to the Army Reserve on 26th March 1919. Walter’s brother Charles Tantum Maddocks (b. Weldon) served as a Gunner in the Royal Garrison Artillery. Charles Maddocks served in France from 25th August 1916. Charles Maddocks was transferred to the Army Reserve on 29th February 1919.

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Alfred Henry Michell Alfred Henry Michell was born in Marylebone, London on 23rd July 1882. He was baptised on 11th August 1882. His father was James Alfred Michell JP from Cornwall, his mother Mary A. Michell (nee Evans) from Wales. In 1891 the family were living in Portsdown Road, Paddington. James and Mary had five children resident Annie, Florence, Alfred, Violet and Leonard. An aunt, Elizabeth Sully was housekeeper. The family had two servants. In 1901 the family were still resident in Paddington. Another child, Marie Rose had been born. The family had three servants. By 1911 the family had moved to Devonshire Place, St. Marylebone. The family had obviously prospered; they now had six servants. Reference is made in the 1911 Census to Alfred’s brother Leonard William Michell being a farmer. Leonard farmed land around Gretton. Alfred Michell was a property developer. Alfred’s father James Alfred Michell “of Gretton” died at Shouldham Hall, Norfolk on 13th November 1913. It is likely that he left his land holdings in Gretton to his sons. Leonard William Michell of Gretton died in 1915. Probate records indicate he left his estate to his brother Alfred Henry Michell, estate manager. In 1927 Alfred Michell had offices at 34/35 East Castle Street, London W1. Alfred Henry Michell married Enid Evelyn Carden on 8th November 1928. Enid’s parents were Sir Frederick and Lady Carden of Stargroves, Newbury. Alfred and Enid were to have three children John Frederick Carden Michell (b.1933), Clare W. M. Michell and Charles Henry Walter Michell (b.1938). In 1939 Alfred, Enid and their children were resident with Sir Frederick Carden at Stargroves. Alfred and Enid spent the latter part of their lives in East Anglia. Alfred Henry Michell died in Suffolk on 11th July 1965. There are numerous references to Alfred Michell in Gretton and he was one of the village’s leading benefactors for a time.

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Military History Alfred Henry Michell served as a Lieutenant in the Warwickshire Yeomanry and later in the Machine Gun Corps.

He first enrolled in the Warwickshire Yeomanry in 1901 whilst at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge.

The London Gazette of 15th January 1916 carried his promotion to Second Lieutenant in the Warwickshire Yeomanry.

His medal card indicates he served in Egypt from December 1916.

He served as a Lieutenant in the Machine Gun Corps from 1917.

Below is a brief history of the Yeomanry’s involvement in the war.

1/1st Warwickshire Yeomanry The regiment mobilised in August 1914, but remained in England until 1915, when they sailed for Egypt with 2nd Mounted Division.

They arrived in Egypt on 24 April, before being moved to Gallipoli for service as dismounted infantry. They landed at Suvla Bay on 18 August and saw action at the Battle of Scimitar Hill, on 21 August. The regiment took heavy losses, but remained in the line until withdrawn at the end of October.

It was assigned to the Australian Mounted Division in February 1917, serving in Palestine as cavalry, and seeing action at the First and Second Battles of Gaza, the Charge at Huj as well as the Battle of Mughar Ridge and the Battle of Jerusalem. It was withdrawn in April 1918, and amalgamated with the 1/1st South Nottinghamshire Hussars into B Battalion, Machine Gun Corps, soon renamed the 100th (Warwickshire and South Nottinghamshire Yeomanry) Battalion, Machine Gun Corps, which would serve on the Western Front for the remainder of the war.

At the Armistice, it was serving as Army Troops with the Fourth Army.

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Charles William Norman Charles William Norman was born in Gretton in 1884. His father was Samuel Woodcock Norman of Harringworth, his mother Elizabeth Norman (nee Allen) from Bisbrooke, Rutland. Samuel and Elizabeth had married in Harringworth on 23rd May 1876. In 1881 Samuel and Elizabeth were living in Bramwell Street, Clapham. Samuel was a general labourer. With Samuel and Elizabeth were their daughters Ada and Rose, both born in London. The family had moved back to Northamptonshire shortly after the Census as a daughter, Clara, was born in Gretton abt. 1881. Charles was born in 1884. By 1891 the family were living in Workhouse Row, Station Road, Kettering. Samuel was employed as an ironstone worker. With Samuel and Elizabeth were their children Rose, Clara and Charles. Clara Norman died in 1898 aged 16 years old. The family were in Wood Street, Kettering in 1901. Samuel was still an ironstone labourer. Charles now 16 years old was employed as a boot clicker. Ada Norman was resident and employed as a tailoress, with Rose as a boot fitter. Charles William Norman married Alice Simons in Leicester in 1906. In 1911 Charles and Alice were living in Cornwall Road, Kettering. Charles was employed as a leather dresser and Alice as a shoe machinist. They had a son William Samuel Norman age 4 years old. Military History Fragments of Charles William Norman’s service record have survived. He enlisted in Kettering on 9th April 1915. Charles was to serve as a Private (17842) with the Northamptonshire Regiment. His enlistment papers indicate he enlisted in the 3rd Battalion but after embarking for France on 25th November 1915 he joined the 7th Battalion in the field. His first spell in France lasted until 1st July 1916. His second spell in France commenced on the 1st January 1917. He was transferred to the 5th (Service) Battalion on 20th January 1917. He was in France until 16th January 1918, returned to the United Kingdom and was back with his battalion in the field by 1st February 1918.

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Charles was back in the United Kingdom on 21st January 1919 before going back to France for the final time on 6th February 1919. Before the month’s end he had returned to the United Kingdom (26th February (1919). Charles was transferred to the Army Reserves on 28th March 1919. Records show Charles suffered some medical problems after returning to civilian life (ruptured gastric ulcer). Charles underwent an operation in January 1920. He appeared before a Medical Board but his ailment was not attributed to his previous military service.

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George Issac Norman George Issac Norman was born in Gretton on 1st February 1890. His father was John William Norman of Harringworth, his mother Sarah Norman (nee Boon) of Gretton. In 1901 John William and Sarah were living in Gretton. William was employed as a platelayer on the railway. With John William and Sarah were there children George Issac, John William Matthew, Wilfred Ernest Boon, Mary Emma and Samuel Woodcock. All the children were born in Gretton. By 1911 the family were living in Gladstone Street, Peterborough. John William is a foreman platelayer with the Midland Railway. John Norman is a grocer’s apprentice with the Co-operative and Wilfred Norman is a dentist’s errand lad; after the war Wilfred was to become a dentist. George Issac Norman, was working as a clerk for a brewery in Goole. George was a boarder with the Burton family in Weatherill Street, Goole. George married Gladys Mary Hannah Darnborough on 27th April 1915 in Yorkshire. According to his service record, the couple had two children, Grace Irene Norman and Walmer Arthur Joseph Norman. Military History George Norman attested on 11th December 1915 in Goole. His occupation was given as Brewery Manager & Off License Holder. George was in the Army Reserve until 15th January 1917. He was a Private (T.R./5/58013) in the 84th Training Reserve Battalion. On 28th April 1917, George was posted to the 6th Battalion, The King’s Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment). He served as a Private (34180) for the duration of his service, although he had a brief period as Acting Sergeant. The Battalion sailed for India on 28th April 1917 from Devonport, arriving in Bombay on 29th July 1917. The 6th Battalion, was part of the 38th Brigade of the 13th (Western) Division. This was the only wholly British Division to have served in Mesopotamia. George Norman was stationed in India until 1st March 1920 when he arrived back in the United Kingdom. He was transferred to the Reserves on 30th March 1920.

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George Issac Norman died in 1971. George’s brother, Wilfred Norman, also served in the war, initially with the Durham Light Infantry, then the Labour Corps and finally the Royal Army Medical Corps. It is not currently known whether George’s brothers, John William Matthew Norman (b. Gretton 1892) or Samuel Woodcock Norman (b. Gretton 1899) served in the war.

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Wilfred Ernest Boon Norman Wilfred Ernest Boon Norman was born in Gretton on 1894. He was baptised in Gretton on 2nd December 1894. His father was John William Norman of Harringworth, his mother Sarah Norman (nee Boon). It is believed that John and Sarah married in Gretton on 25th November 1886, although the marriage record records her name as “Rose Ann Boon”. In 1881 John William Norman, Sarah Norman and their son George Issac Norman were living in Bake House Yard, Gretton. John was a railway labourer. In 1901 John and Sarah were living in Gretton with their children George Issac, John William Matthew, Wilfred Ernest Boon, Mabel Emma and Samuel Woodcock. John Norman was a platelayer on the railway working for the Midland Railway Company. In 1911 the family were living in Gladstone Street, Peterborough. John William Norman was now a foreman platelayer for the Midland Railway Company. Son John William Matthew Norman was a grocer’s apprentice for the Co-operative stores and Wilfred was an errand lad for a dentist. George Issac Norman was working as a clerk for a brewery in Goole. At the time of Wilfred’s enlistment in 1915 he was living in Ely, Cambridgeshire. He was employed as a dentist’s apprentice. In 1922 Wilfred Norman married Fanny C. Fisher in North Witchford, Cambridgeshire. In 1939 it is recorded that Wilfred and Fanny were at the North Western Hotel, Northampton. Wilfred was a dentist. Wilfred Ernest Boon Norman died in Northampton in 1946. Military Service

Wilfred Ernest Boon Norman enlisted in the Army in Peterborough on 23rd October 1915. Initially he served as a Private (72577) in the Royal Army Medical Corps. Wilfred was transferred to the 2/4th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment on 15th July 1916 (6584). On the 29th August 1916 Wilfred Norman arrived in France as a member of the British Expeditionary Force. Wilfred was transferred to the 1/5th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, he served as a Private (9359). Wilfred joined his unit in the field on 20th September 1916.

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Wilfred suffered a gunshot wound to his right forearm and was sent back to the United Kingdom on 29th September 1916. From 1st October – 8th December 1916 Wilfred was a patient in the 2nd Western General Hospital, Manchester. On 7th April 1917 Wilfred returned to France from Folkestone to Boulogne. He was posted to the 10th (Service) Battalion, Durham Light Infantry on 21st April 1917. On the 29th September 1917 Wilfred was transferred to the Labour Corps (702489). He was posted to the 896th Company in Marseilles. On the 5th January 1918 he was medically reclassified as B1. Wilfred was transferred to the Royal Army Medical Corps (140182) on 25th March 1918 and was stationed at the No. 72 General Hospital in Trouville. Wilfred left Boulogne for Purfleet on 10th July 1919. Wilfred was transferred to the Army Reserve on 7th August 1919. Wilfred’s brother George Issac Norman also served in the war with The King’s Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment).

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Charles Northen Charles Northen was born in Gretton on 24th August 1884. He was baptised on 18th January 1885. His father was William Northen of Little Oakley, his mother Ann Northen (nee Hunter) from Otley, Yorkshire. In 1891 William and Ann Northen were living in The Nook, Gretton. William Northen was a farmer. With William and Ann were their children James, Walter Warren, Charles, Bertram and Lewis. By 1901 Charles Northen was staying with his uncle and aunt, Charles (from Thorpe by Water) and Fanny Northen in St. Paul Deptford, London. Charles and Fanny ran a chemist & drug store. Charles Northen now aged 16 years old was an “engineer’s time keeper”. Charles Northen married Gladys Elizabeth Smith in Richmond in 1910. In 1911 Charles and Gladys were living in Heythorpe Street, Wandsworth. Charles was a contractor’s clerk for “Public Works”. In 1939 Charles and Gladys were living in Stamford Road, Oakham. Charles was a “contractor agent”. Charles Northen died in 1941.

Military History

Charles Northen served as a Sapper (284525,WR/280971) in the Royal Engineers. He served in the Railways unit.

Of Charles Northen’s brothers it is known that Stanley Northen (b.1894) served in the Northamptonshire Regiment. Lewis William Northern (b.1890) was called-up but was granted an exemption on medical grounds in 1917.

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Stanley Northen Stanley Northen was born in Gretton on 20th October 1894. He was baptised on 2nd December 1894. His father was William Northen of Little Oakley, his mother Ann Northen (nee Hunter) from Otley, Yorkshire. In 1891 William and Ann Northen were living in The Nook, Gretton. William Northen was a farmer. With William and Ann were their children James, Walter Warren, Charles, Bertram and Lewis. In 1911 Stanley Northen was resident with Thomas Marchant in Broad Bridge Street, Peterborough. Thomas Marchant was a butcher originally from Rockingham. Stanley Northen and an Elmer Marriott were butcher’s apprentices.

Stanley Northen married Dorothy M. Eales in Potterspury in 1926.

In 1939 Stanley and Dorothy Northen were living in Manor Farm, Uppingham district. Stanley was a farmer.

Stanley Northen died in 1961.

Military History

Stanley Northen served as a Private (14847) in the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He disembarked in France on 31st August 1915 and saw active service on the Western Front. On his medal record there is a suggestion he was promoted to Lance Corporal, however it is unclear if this was a permanent promotion.

Stanley Northern was transferred to the Army Reserve on 30th January 1919.

Of Stanley Northen’s brothers it is known that Charles Northen (b.1884) served in the Royal Engineers. Lewis William Northern (b.1890) was called-up but was granted an exemption on medical grounds in 1917.

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Thomas Slough Oakley Thomas Slough Oakley was born on 14th May 1889 in Gretton. He was baptised on 4th August 1889. His father was William Slough Oakley from Hertfordshire, his mother Mary Oakley (nee Whymant) of Gretton. William Oakley was a railway signalman.

In 1901 William and Mary were living in Gretton with their children John (grocer’s assistant), Thomas, Rose, Kate and Edith. Also resident was Mary’s father John Whymant a retired labourer.

In 1911 Thomas Slough Oakley is living with the Morley family in Gretton. John Richard Morley from Skegness is a butcher; Thomas was John’s assistant.

When Thomas enlisted in 1915 he gave his occupation as baker.

On 27th December 1920 Thomas Slough Oakley married Edith Standing in Marylebone, London. Thomas gave his occupation as railway platelayer.

In 1939 Thomas and Edith were living in Gloucester Avenue, Northampton. Thomas was a general labourer.

Thomas Slough Oakley died in Northampton in 1972.

Military Service

Thomas Slough Oakley served as a Gunner (85874) in the Royal Garrison Artillery. Thomas enlisted in Kettering on 6th December 1915. Thomas was in the Army Reserve until 22nd May 1916. Gunner Oakley served in France from 25th November 1916 to 23rd November 1918 and from 8th December 1918 to 8th November 1919. Thomas Oakley Slough was transferred to the Army Reserve on 19th November 1919.

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George Albert Palmer George Albert Palmer was born in Gretton on 21st October 1892. He was baptised on 5th March 1893. His father was George Andrew Palmer of Benefield, his mother Ann Palmer (nee Mayes) of Gretton. In 1901 George, Ann and their children George Albert and Mary Lucy were living in Gretton. George Palmer was a general labourer. Resident with the family was William Kirby Palmer, George Andrew Palmer’s brother. By 1911 both George Andrew and his son George Albert were ironstone labourers. William Kirby Palmer was still resident with the family. George Albert Palmer married Georgina Green in 1926. In 1939 George and Georgina were living in Caistor Lane. George was employed in the steel works. Georgina was a nursing auxiliary. George and Georgina’s son, William Reginald Palmer was killed in the Second World War on 30th January 1944. He served in the RAF Volunteer Service and is buried in Berlin. He is commemorated on the Gretton War Memorial. George Albert Palmer died on 4th December 1964. Military History George Albert Palmer served as a Private (15914) in the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. His service record has not survived but it is known that he was a POW in Munster (Westphalia). This was reported in the Northampton Mercury of 5th November 1915.

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John Charles Preston Pick John Charles Preston Pick was born in 1884 near Gloucester. He was baptised on 12th June 1884. His father was George Benjamin Pick from Stamford, his mother Catherine Pick (nee Petch) from Doncaster. George and Catherine married in 1879.

In 1891 George, Catherine and son John were living at The Hatton Arms, Gretton.

John’s father George Pick died in 1895.

In 1901 John was boarding with Harry Hawkins and family in Uppingham. Harry Hawkins was a drapery manager; John was a draper’s assistant.

John Pick married Hannah Martha Garden of Aldershot in Gretton on 3rd October 1910.

John’s mother Catherine Pick died in 1910.

In 1911 John Pick was innkeeper at The Hatton Arms with his wife Hannah. Also resident was 83 year old Sarah Ann Preston, the former landlady of The Hatton Arms. Sarah was John Pick’s grandmother.

Sarah Ann Preston died in Gretton on 12th March 1914. Sarah was highly regarding in the village.

John’s wife Hannah Pick died on 9th December 1917 in hospital in Kettering.

John remarried. His second wife was Ethel Pick, possibly Ethel May Garden of Derbyshire who married a Charles J Pick in 1919.

John and Ethel Pick resided in The Hatton Arms during the 1920’s.

John Pick died in 1929 aged 44. He was buried in Gretton on 7th January 1929.

Military Service

John Charles Preston Pick served as a Private (57050) in the Machine Gun Corps. His service record has not survived but from a newspaper report it is known he was seriously ill in hospital in September 1918. John Pick transferred to the Army Reserve on 8th February 1919.

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Cecil James Pridmore Cecil James Pridmore was born in Gretton in 1890. He was baptised in Gretton on 17th September 1890. His father was John William Pridmore of Southwick, his mother Sarah Pridmore (nee Mason) of Oakham. John and Sarah were married in Gretton on 7th August 1882. By 1901 John and Sarah were living in Brook Street, Kettering. John was employed as an ironstone labourer. With John and Sarah were their children, Mary (b. Gretton), George (b. Gretton), Cecil (b. Gretton), Charles Edward (b. Gretton), Ernest (b. Gretton) and Florence (b. Kettering). Mary, George and Ernest were all employed in the shoe industry. It is recorded that Cecil Pridmore emigrated to Canada in 1911. Military History Cecil Pridmore enlisted with the Canadian Expeditionary Force sent to Europe. Exact details of his war service are not yet known. His parents also emigrated to Canada, settling in Montreal. Cecil’s brother, Sergeant George William Pridmore, was killed in action on 22nd December 1914. He was serving with the 1st Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. His brother Charles Edward Pridmore served with the Border Regiment and the Labour Corps, whilst his brother Ernest Pridmore served with The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles).

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Charles Edward Pridmore Charles Edward Pridmore was born in Gretton in 1893. He was baptised in Gretton on 28th May 1893. His father was John William Pridmore of Southwick, his mother Sarah Pridmore (nee Mason) of Oakham. John and Sarah were married in Gretton on 7th August 1882. By 1901 John and Sarah were living in Brook Street, Kettering. John was employed as an ironstone labourer. With John and Sarah were their children, Mary (b. Gretton), George (b. Gretton), Cecil (b. Gretton), Charles Edward (b. Gretton), Ernest (b. Gretton) and Florence (b. Kettering). Mary, George and Ernest were all employed in the shoe industry. In 1911 John, Sarah, Florence and Charles Edward are still living in Brook Street. Charles is employed as a “clicker” in a shoe boot factory. Military History Charles Edward Pridmore enlisted into the Border Regiment on 1st May 1911. He was a professional soldier when the First World War broke out, serving as a Private (10034). His address in his service records is given as Queen Street, Rushden; he was still employed in the shoe industry at time of enlistment. His service record has survived which shows he was in the United Kingdom from May 1911 until 13th November 1913 when he joined the 1st Battalion, Border Regiment in India. The battalion was stationed in India when war broke out, returning to the United Kingdom on 8th December 1914. Charles was posted to the 3rd Battalion on 17th March 1915. He embarked for France from Southampton on 1st April 1915. Charles joined the 2nd Battalion in France on 28th April 1915; he was to stay with the 2nd Battalion until July 1916. On 1st July 1916 he suffered a gunshot wound to his left knee whilst in action and returned to the United Kingdom (4th July 1916). He was a patient at the 5th Northern General Hospital, Leicester for a while. On 6th June 1917 he was transferred to the Labour Corps (218006) and served with the 392 Labour Company. On 1st October 1918 he was medically reclassified as B2. He was discharged from the Army on 9th April 1919.

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Private Charles Edward Pridmore was a recipient of a Silver Badge (B280500). A note in his service record indicates that his parents were resident in Montreal, Canada. Charles brother, Sergeant George William Pridmore, was killed in action on 22nd December 1914. He was serving with the 1st Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. His brother Ernest Pridmore served with the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles), whilst his brother Cecil Pridmore served with the Canadian contingent.

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Ernest Pridmore Ernest Pridmore was born in Gretton in 1887. He was baptised in Gretton on 10th December 1887. His father was John William Pridmore of Southwick, his mother Sarah Pridmore (nee Mason) of Oakham. John and Sarah were married in Gretton on 7th August 1882. By 1901 John and Sarah were living in Brook Street, Kettering. John was employed as an ironstone labourer. With John and Sarah were their children, Mary (b. Gretton), George (b. Gretton), Cecil (b. Gretton), Charles Edward (b. Gretton), Ernest (b. Gretton) and Florence (b. Kettering). Mary, George and Ernest were all employed in the shoe industry. In 1911 Ernest Pridmore was boarding with William and Sarah Craxton in York Road, Rushden. Ernest was employed as a postman. Ernest Pridmore married Winifred Mary Andrew in 1913. They lived in Queen Street, Rushden. Military History Ernest Pridmore attested for the 3rd Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment (7171) on 8th August 1904. He was 17 years of age and working in the shoe industry for Messrs. Loakes Bros. of Kettering. On the 10th October 1904 he joined the 1st Battalion, Scottish Rifles (The Cameronians). He served as a Private (8758). At some point he must have left the Army as by 1911 he was employed as a postman but when war was declared he re-joined the Scottish Rifles. The 1st Battalion, with Private Pridmore among their number, disembarked in Le Havre, France on 15th August 1914. It came under the orders of the 19th Infantry Brigade, which was unassigned to a Division at the time. The Brigade joined the 6th Division on 12th October 1914, then later the 27th Division on 31st May 1915. Private Ernest Pridmore was discharged on 28th June 1915 due to wounds received. Ernest Pridmore died on 11th January 1920. Private Ernest Pridmore was a recipient of a Silver Badge (12653). His parents emigrated to Montreal, Canada.

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Ernest’s brother, Sergeant George William Pridmore, was killed in action on 22nd December 1914. He was serving with the 1st Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. His brother Charles Edward Pridmore served with the Border Regiment and the Labour Corps, whilst his brother Cecil Pridmore served with the Canadian contingent.

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William Robert Readyhoof William Robert Readyhoof (referred to as Robert) was born in Gretton in 1880. His father was Robert Readyhoof, his mother Ann Readyhoof (nee Warner). Robert and Ann had married in 1879.

In 1881 Robert, Ann and Robert Jnr. were living in Gretton. Robert Snr. was a tailor.

In 1891 Robert Snr. and his son were living in Leicester Road, Uppingham.

By 1901 father and son had returned to Gretton. Robert Snr. was still a tailor, Robert Jnr. was a newsagent.

Robert Readyhoof Snr. died in March 1904.

In 1911 Robert Readyhoof was living with his cousin William Readyhoof and family in Gretton. Robert was still a newsagent.

After the war Robert Readyhoof returned to Gretton. The electoral register of 1928 records he was still resident in the village.

William Robert Readyhoof died in 1937.

Military Service

William Robert Readyhoof’s service record has not survived. He served as a Private (10356) in the 10th Battalion, The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment) and later as a Private (33963) in the 7th Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment. Local newspapers (the Kettering Leader and the Northampton Mercury) list Private Robert Readyhoof as being wounded in September 1916. The 10th Battalion, The Queen’s moved up to Pommieres Redoubt on 14th September 1916. On 15th September they mounted an attack on enemy trenches. They took Flers and occupied enemy trenches immediately north-east of Flers. The battalion sustained heavy casualties. Private Robert Readyhoof was in “D” Company. He was listed as wounded in the battalion’s war diary. The nature of his wounds is currently unknown.

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William Arthur Rogers William Arthur Rogers was born near Huddersfield on 21st August 1891. He was baptised on 4th May 1892 in Lindley, Yorkshire. His father was John Rogers from Buckinghamshire, his mother Jane Ann Rogers (nee Martin) of Yorkshire. In 1891 John and Jane were living in Halifax Road, Lindley near Huddersfield. John Rogers was a gardener. William Arthur Rogers was born in 1891. William had a twin brother, John Martin Rogers. By 1901 the family had moved to Gretton. John Rogers continued to be employed as a gardener. In 1911 John, Jane and William were still living in Gretton. John Rogers was a Head Gardener, whilst William Rogers was a gardener. William’s twin brother John Martin Rogers was boarding in Market Rasen. His employment was listed as “Saddler”. William Arthur Rogers married Amy Smith in Gretton on 9th December 1924. In 1939 William and Amy were living at Harborough Hill, Harringworth Road, Gretton. William was a Head Gardener. William Arthur Rogers died in Gretton on 29th June 1940. Military Service

William Arthur Rogers served as a Gunner (134467) in the Royal Garrison Artillery. William’s civilian occupation was gardener. His home address was Tower Lodge Porters Park, Shenley. He joined in Watford. Initially he was in the Army Reserve. On the 4th December 1916 William was posted to the 10th Company, Royal Garrison Artillery. William was classified as a 1st Class Signaller on 14th May 1917. William served in France from 12th August 1917 to 9th October 1918, then again from 24th October 1918. William Arthur Rogers was transferred to the Army Reserve on 4th March 1919.

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William’s twin brother John Martin Rogers served as a Private (2401) in the 3/1st Lincolnshire Yeomanry. There is no record of him serving overseas. It is likely that he contracted an illness whilst undergoing training. According to the Lincolnshire Cemetery Register, John Martin Rogers was resident at the City Fever Hospital, St John & St Nicholas, Lincoln before his death. It is recorded that Private Rogers died on 22nd June 1915. He was 24 years of age. Private John Martin Rogers is buried at the Lincoln (Newport) Cemetery and remembered on the Gretton War Memorial.

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John James Smith John James Smith was born in Gretton in 1899. He was baptised in Gretton on 20th September 1899. His father was Joseph Smith of Gretton, his mother Elizabeth Smith (nee Lane) of Thurning. In 1901 Joseph, Elizabeth and family were living with Joseph’s mother, Ann Smith, at The Blue Bell Inn, which Ann ran. Joseph was a blacksmith. With Joseph and Elizabeth were their children Lydia, Joseph Staples, Alice and John James. In 1911 the family were still living with Ann Smith. Joseph Staples was a railway porter; John James was at school. Joseph and Elizabeth had another son Walter (age 4). At some point John James Smith moved to Coventry and in the early years of the war worked in a munitions factory. John James Smith married Annie Brooks in September 1921 in Gretton Parish Church. They had three children. He died in 1974 and is buried in Gretton at the Parish Church.1

Military History John James Smith attested on 19th September 1916, he was only 17 years old. He was transferred to the Army Reserve. He was mobilised on 12th June 1917 and was posted to the 95th Training Reserve Battalion. He was posted to the 92nd on 24th June 1917. On 1st December 1917 he was a Private in the Hampshire Regiment before being transferred to the Royal Berkshire Regiment on 6th April 1918 on his arrival in France He served as Private (44931) with the 8th Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment, than the 2/4th Battalion before returning to the 8th Battalion. He was made an Acting Sergeant. On 28th May 1919 he was transferred to the 2/7th Royal Warwickshire Regiment. He served as Sergeant (44866). John James Smith was stationed in France from 6th April 1918 until the 18th September 1919.

He was transferred to the Army Reserve on 28th September 1919.

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John’s brother, Joseph Staples Smith, served as a Sergeant (42629) with the 1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment (formerly 23577 Norfolk Regiment). Sergeant Joseph Smith was killed in action on 5th September 1918 and is buried in the Peronne Communal Cemetery, France. 1 Source – “Taking Stock of WW1” Gretton Local History Society (April 2016)

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Bertrand (Bertie) Spendlove Bamford Spendlove married Clara Susanna Almond in 1885. Both were from Gretton. In 1891 Bamford and Clara were living in Gretton with their two sons John Bamford Spendlove and Joseph William Almond Spendlove. Bamford Spendlove was a farmer. By 1901 the family had grown. Bamford and Clara now had five more children Elizabeth, George, Bertrand, Walter and Arthur. By 1911 John, Joseph, Elizabeth and George were assisting on the farm. Bertrand and Walter were at school. Youngest child Arthur was a pupil at The Royal Institution for Deaf and Dumb Children, Church Road, Edgbaston. Clara Susanna Spendlove (nee Almond) died in 1921. Bamford Spendlove died on 11th August 1930. Bertrand Spendlove (b. Gretton 1897) Bertrand Spendlove appeared before Northamptonshire Military Tribunal in 1916 to appeal against his call-up. His occupation was stockman & shepherd. The appeal stated that Bertrand was “employed by father, required to help run farm”. The appeal was dismissed. Bertrand Spendlove served as a Private (23959) in the Northamptonshire Regiment. He was mobilised on 29th May 1916 and posted to the 3rd Battalion. On 14th September 1916 he was posted to the 6th Battalion upon his arrival in France. He was posted back to the 3rd Battalion from 10th December 1917 until 28th January 1918 when he returned to the 6th Battalion. In the autumn of 1917 he was in St. Luke’s Hospital, Halifax suffering from trench fever. He was wounded in a German gas attack on 24th March 1918 during his second tour of duty. He was admitted to the 1st Australian Hospital at Rouen. On 18th August 1918 he sustained a gunshot wound to his left hand. He was transferred back to the United Kingdom and was a patient in the Norfolk War Hospital, Thorpe, Norwich. Bertrand’s injury necessitated the amputation of his middle finger.

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Bertrand Spendlove was discharged from the Army on 12th October 1918. Bertrand Spendlove died in 1971. George Albert Spendlove (b. Gretton 1894) George Spendlove is believed to have served in the Army Service Corps. George Spendlove married Blanche Chappell in 1931. In 1939 George and Blanche were living on Wakerley Road, Harringworth. George was a farmer. George Spendlove died in 1972 and is buried in Gretton. Walter Spendlove (b. Gretton 1889) Walter Spendlove appeared before Northamptonshire Military Tribunal on 11th May 1917. His occupation was horseman & shepherd. The reason, submitted by his father, was that he already had two sons serving in the forces and needed Walter to help at home. Walter was given a temporary exemption until 30th September 1917. It is unknown whether Walter eventually served, however there is no reference to him or his brothers John and Joseph serving.

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Frederick Spendlove Thomas Spendlove was born in Gretton in 1865. In 1891 Thomas married Adelaide James from Herefordshire. In 1891 Thomas and Adelaide were living in the High Street, Gretton. Thomas was a boot & shoemaker. He was self-employed. Thomas Spendlove jnr. was born on 12th April 1892. Jonathan Spendlove was born in 1893. Frederick Spendlove was born on 10th February 1899. In 1901 Thomas and Adelaide were living with their three sons Thomas, Jonathan and Frederick in Gretton. Thomas Spendlove Snr. was a bootmaker & dealer. By 1911 Thomas Spendlove jnr. was a shop assistant in a gentleman’s outfitters. Jonathan Spendlove was a bootmaker working for his father. Frederick Spendlove was still at school. In 1939 Thomas and Adelaide Spendlove were living in Laxton Cottage, Gretton. Thomas was a “shoemaker master”. Thomas Spendlove died in 1943. Adelaide Spendlove died in 1957. Thomas Spendlove (b. Gretton 1892) Thomas Spendlove’s service record has not survived. It is believed that he served in the Royal Field Artillery. In 1938 Thomas Spendlove married Mary Scaife (b. 1906). In 1939 Thomas and Mary were living in Springfield Close, Kettering. Thomas was employed as a clerk with the Ministry of Labour. Thomas Spendlove died in 1972. Frederick Spendlove (b. Gretton 1899) Frederick Spendlove appeared before Northamptonshire Military Tribunal in October 1917 to appeal against his conscription. The appeal made was that he was engaged in “undertaking essential work” as a boot repairer. Frederick was granted an exemption to 1st March 1918.

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Frederick Spendlove’s service record has not survived. It is believed that he served in the Royal Garrison Artillery. Frederick Spendlove died in 1976 and is buried in Gretton. Jonathan Spendlove (b. Gretton 1893) Jonathan Spendlove served as a Private in the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He was killed in action on 27th September 1915.

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George Albert Spendlove Bamford Spendlove married Clara Susanna Almond in 1885. Both were from Gretton. In 1891 Bamford and Clara were living in Gretton with their two sons John Bamford Spendlove and Joseph William Almond Spendlove. Bamford Spendlove was a farmer. By 1901 the family had grown. Bamford and Clara now had five more children Elizabeth, George, Bertrand, Walter and Arthur. By 1911 John, Joseph, Elizabeth and George were assisting on the farm. Bertrand and Walter were at school. Youngest child Arthur was a pupil at The Royal Institution for Deaf and Dumb Children, Church Road, Edgbaston. Clara Susanna Spendlove (nee Almond) died in 1921. Bamford Spendlove died on 11th August 1930. Bertrand Spendlove (b. Gretton 1897) Bertrand Spendlove appeared before Northamptonshire Military Tribunal in 1916 to appeal against his call-up. His occupation was stockman & shepherd. The appeal stated that Bertrand was “employed by father, required to help run farm”. The appeal was dismissed. Bertrand Spendlove served as a Private (23959) in the Northamptonshire Regiment. He was mobilised on 29th May 1916 and posted to the 3rd Battalion. On 14th September 1916 he was posted to the 6th Battalion upon his arrival in France. He was posted back to the 3rd Battalion from 10th December 1917 until 28th January 1918 when he returned to the 6th Battalion. In the autumn of 1917 he was in St. Luke’s Hospital, Halifax suffering from trench fever. He was wounded in a German gas attack on 24th March 1918 during his second tour of duty. He was admitted to the 1st Australian Hospital at Rouen. On 18th August 1918 he sustained a gunshot wound to his left hand. He was transferred back to the United Kingdom and was a patient in the Norfolk War Hospital, Thorpe, Norwich. Bertrand’s injury necessitated the amputation of his middle finger.

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Bertrand Spendlove was discharged from the Army on 12th October 1918. Bertrand Spendlove died in 1971. George Albert Spendlove (b. Gretton 1894) George Spendlove is believed to have served in the Army Service Corps. George Spendlove married Blanche Chappell in 1931. In 1939 George and Blanche were living on Wakerley Road, Harringworth. George was a farmer. George Spendlove died in 1972 and is buried in Gretton. Walter Spendlove (b. Gretton 1889) Walter Spendlove appeared before Northamptonshire Military Tribunal on 11th May 1917. His occupation was horseman & shepherd. The reason, submitted by his father, was that he already had two sons serving in the forces and needed Walter to help at home. Walter was given a temporary exemption until 30th September 1917. It is unknown whether Walter eventually served, however there is no reference to him or his brothers John and Joseph serving.

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Leonard Spendlove Leonard Spendlove was born in Gretton on 30th April 1886. He was baptised in Gretton on 18th July 1886. His father was John William Spendlove, his mother Mary Spendlove (nee Herd). John and Mary were married in Leeds on 6th October 1881. John’s occupation was given as “book-keeper” on the Register. In 1891 John and Mary were living in Gretton with their children Mary Annie and Leonard. John was a farmer & coal merchant. By 1901 another son had been born Roland (b. 5th December 1895). Leonard Spendlove was now working on the farm with his father. In 1911 John, Leonard and Elizabeth were recorded in the Census as working on the farm. Leonard’s mother Mary Spendlove (nee Herd) died in 1918. Leonard Spendlove married Ida M. Robinson in 1919. Widower John William Spendlove remarried in 1921 to Kate Grace Petch. John William Spendlove died on 28th September 1930. In 1939 Leonard and Ida were living at Rectory Farm, Benefield. Leonard was still resident farming in Benefield when he died on 16th October 1954. In 1939 Roland Spendlove, Leonard’s brother, was farming in Gretton. His stepmother Kate Spendlove (nee Petch) was living with him. Military History Leonard Spendlove served as a Private (15937) with the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. Leonard was eventually promoted to Sergeant. Leonard first disembarked in France on 31st August 1915. The Grantham Journal of 8th January 1916 records that Private Leonard Spendlove, 7th Northants (Transport Section) was promoted to Lance Corporal in France. Leonard Spendlove was transferred to the Army Reserve on 30th January 1919. Sergeant Leonard Spendlove of the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment was Mentioned in Despatches in the London Gazette 431442 on 8th July 1919.

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Thomas Spendlove Thomas Spendlove was born in Gretton in 1865. In 1891 Thomas married Adelaide James from Herefordshire. In 1891 Thomas and Adelaide were living in the High Street, Gretton. Thomas was a boot & shoemaker. He was self-employed. Thomas Spendlove jnr. was born on 12th April 1892. Jonathan Spendlove was born in 1893. Frederick Spendlove was born on 10th February 1899. In 1901 Thomas and Adelaide were living with their three sons Thomas, Jonathan and Frederick in Gretton. Thomas Spendlove Snr. was a bootmaker & dealer. By 1911 Thomas Spendlove jnr. was a shop assistant in a gentleman’s outfitters. Jonathan Spendlove was a bootmaker working for his father. Frederick Spendlove was still at school. In 1939 Thomas and Adelaide Spendlove were living in Laxton Cottage, Gretton. Thomas was a “shoemaker master”. Thomas Spendlove died in 1943. Adelaide Spendlove died in 1957. Thomas Spendlove (b. Gretton 1892) Thomas Spendlove’s service record has not survived. It is believed that he served in the Royal Field Artillery. In 1938 Thomas Spendlove married Mary Scaife (b. 1906). In 1939 Thomas and Mary were living in Springfield Close, Kettering. Thomas was employed as a clerk with the Ministry of Labour. Thomas Spendlove died in 1972. Frederick Spendlove (b. Gretton 1899) Frederick Spendlove appeared before Northamptonshire Military Tribunal in October 1917 to appeal against his conscription. The appeal made was that he was engaged in “undertaking essential work” as a boot repairer. Frederick was granted an exemption to 1st March 1918.

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Frederick Spendlove’s service record has not survived. It is believed that he served in the Royal Garrison Artillery. Frederick Spendlove died in 1976 and is buried in Gretton. Jonathan Spendlove (b. Gretton 1893) Jonathan Spendlove served as a Private in the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He was killed in action on 27th September 1915.

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Richard Stretton Richard Stretton was born in Gretton on 21st January 1885. His mother was Ruth Stretton (nee Craxford). Ruth’s husband was John Stretton of Gretton. John and Ruth married on 15th May 1876. Unfortunately Ruth’s husband John Stretton died in 1880; he was buried on 12th February 1880. Ruth Craxford was actually John Stretton’s second wife. John had married Sarah Ann Smith on 27th December 1870. They had a daughter Sarah Ann Stretton born in 1872 (christened 10th November 1872). Unfortunately John’s first wife Sarah died in 1874. In 1871 John Stretton was living in Gretton with his first wife Sarah Ann Stretton (nee Smith). John was an agricultural labourer. By 1881 John was living with his second wife Ruth Stretton (nee Craxford). Also resident according to the Census was widow Elizabeth Wyman a nurse. In 1891 widow Ruth Stretton was living with her son Richard in West End, Gretton. Ruth was a domestic housekeeper working for bricklayer’s Edward Rushin and his son William Rushin from Rothley, Leicestershire. Also resident was a lodger Thomas Farwell an ironstone labourer. In 1901 Ruth Stretton was employed as a seamstress and still keeping house for Edward Rushin. Richard Stretton was now working with Edward as a bricklayer’s labourer. In 1911 Ruth and Richard were living in Craxford Lane, Gretton. Richard Stretton was employed as a farm labourer. Richard’s mother Ruth Stretton (nee Craxford) died in 1926. Military History Richard Stretton is named on Gretton War memorial as having served in the First World War and returned home. Unfortunately it is currently not possible to verify his service record.

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Frederick Tee Boon Roland Tee Boon was born in Gretton on 24th December 1892. He was baptised on 1st July 1894. His father was Thomas Tee Boon, his mother Sarah Agnes Tee Boon (nee Coleman) of Rutland. Thomas and Sarah had married on 24th March 1891. Thomas and Sarah had four sons Thomas Sidney, Frederick, John and Roland. Thomas Tee Boon died in 1897. Sarah Agnes Tee Boon remarried in 1898 to William Smith of Gretton. In 1901 Frederick, John and Roland were resident with their grandparents James and Sarah Coleman in Gretton. James Coleman was an agricultural labourer. Frederick Tee Boon married Alice Mary Bugg of Benefield in 1921. Frederick and Alice had at least four children Robert, Frederick, Sylvia and Albert. In 1939 Frederick, Alice and family were living in Billesdon. Frederick was employed as a labourer working on the roads. Military History

Frederick Tee Boon served as a Gunner (86651,1013873) in the Royal Garrison Artillery. He first joined for duty on 24th August 1914. Frederick was living at West End, Gretton. His civilian occupation was “slater”. Frederick served in France 1915, Mesopotamia 1915/17 and India 1916. Frederick Tee Boon transferred to the Army Reserve on 9th November 1919.

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George William Tee Boon George William Tee Boon was born in Gretton on 7th December 1892. His father was George William Tee Boon, his mother Alice Tee Boon (nee Langley) both of Gretton. George William Tee Boon was an ironstone labourer. George and Alice were married in 1886. In 1901 George and Alice were living in Gretton with their children Mary Ann, Frances, Sarah Jane, George William jnr., Leonard Samuel and Cora. Mary Tee Boon was a machinist in a clothing factory. In 1911 the family were living near the Post Office, Gretton. Mary, Frances and Sarah were all employed as machinists. George William jnr. and Leonard were farm labourers. George and Alice also had Joseph Langley (son), Annie (daughter) and Thomas (son) living with them. George William Tee Boon married Florence May Wallhead in 1919. George and Florence settled in Thistleton. In 1939 George and Florence were living in the Oakham area. George was a farm labourer. Military History

George Tee Boon served as a Private (15864) in the Northamptonshire Regiment. Enlisted 7th September 1914. His civilian occupation was farm labourer. His previous employer was a Mr H. Hunt of Caldecott. He was resident in Station Road, Gretton. George served in the 7th (Service) Battalion, 5th Battalion (from 13th January 1916), 3rd Battalion then attached to 511 Agricultural Company from 11th December 1918. He served on the Western Front 1st September – 16th October 1915 then from 13th January 1916 to 14th August 1918. George was wounded in 1915 and 1918. In August 1918 suffered gunshot wounds to leg and hand resulting in amputation of 2nd finger on right hand in hospital in London. George Tee Boon transferred to the Army Reserve on 8th April 1919. Grantham Journal 9th October 1915 Reported Pte. Geo. Tee Boon, 7th Northamptons, was reported to be dangerously ill, following a gunshot wound in the side, and he was in No.10 Stationary Hospital.

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Grantham Journal 8th January 1916 (abridged) Pte. Geo. Tee Boon, 7th Northamptons, who was wounded in the engagements at the end of September, has recovered, and after passing ten days leave at home has gone to Colchester.

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George Tee Boon George Tee Boon was born in Gretton on 6th November 1897. His father was Joseph Tee Boon of Gretton, his mother Lucy Tee Boon (nee Brooks) of Caldecott. Joseph was a labourer. George attended Caldecott Primary School from 1900. In 1901 Joseph, Lucy and their children George and Lydia were living in Caldecott. Joseph was an ironstone labourer. Joseph and Lucy had another son John Thomas Tee Boon. George’s mother Lucy Tee Boon died in 1907. Joseph Tee Boon remarried on 26th December 1908 in Caldecott to Mary Ann Chambers. In 1911 Joseph, Mary, George, Lydia and John Thomas were still living in Caldecott. George was a “yard boy”. Prior to enlisting in the Royal Navy George Tee Boon worked as a railway porter for the London & North Western Railway. Military History

George Tee Boon joined the Royal Navy on 20th January 1915. His service number was J34646.

George spent three months at HMS Ganges before joining HMS Thunderer on 1st May 1915. He served on HMS Thunderer until 31st March 1920 and served during the Battle of Jutland (1916).

In 1920 Able Seaman George Tee Boon was registered as an Absent Voter in Caldecott at Forester’s Lodge. He was still serving on HMS Thunderer.

George Tee Boon left the Royal Navy in 1928.

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John William Tee Boon Roland Tee Boon was born in Gretton on 31st May 1894. His father was Thomas Tee Boon, his mother Sarah Agnes Tee Boon (nee Coleman) of Rutland. Thomas and Sarah had married on 24th March 1891. Thomas and Sarah had four sons Thomas Sidney, Frederick, John and Roland. Thomas Tee Boon died in 1897. Sarah Agnes Tee Boon remarried in 1898 to William Smith of Gretton. In 1901 Frederick, John and Roland were resident with their grandparents James and Sarah Coleman in Gretton. James Coleman was an agricultural labourer. In 1911 John and Roland Tee Boon were living with their mother, step-father and their half brothers/sisters Herbert, George, Ada, Walter, Robert and Dorothy. Their step-father William Smith was an ironstone labourer. John and Roland Tee Boon were both farm labourers. John William Tee Boon married Florence M. Frost in Cambridge in 1919. In 1939 John, Florence and family were still resident in Cambridge. John Tee Boon was a gardener. John Tee Boon died in Cambridge on 24th May 1979. Military History

John William Tee Boon’s service record has not survived. From a local newspaper article it is known that he served in the Army, however his exact service details cannot currently be verified.

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Leonard Samuel Tee Boon Leonard Samuel Tee Boon was born in Gretton on 25th October 1897. His father was George William Tee Boon, his mother Alice Tee Boon (nee Langley) both of Gretton. George William Tee Boon was an ironstone labourer. George and Alice were married in 1886. In 1901 George and Alice were living in Gretton with their children Mary Ann, Frances, Sarah Jane, George William jnr., Leonard Samuel and Cora. Mary Tee Boon was a machinist in a clothing factory. In 1911 the family were living near the Post Office, Gretton. Mary, Frances and Sarah were all employed as machinists. George William jnr. and Leonard were farm labourers. George and Alice also had Joseph Langley (son), Annie (daughter) and Thomas (son) living with them. Leonard Samuel Tee Boon married Doris E. L. Taylor in 1921. In 1939 Leonard and Doris were living in Jasmine Cottage, Barrowden. Leonard was employed by the railway in their engineering and maintenance section. Leonard Samuel Tee Boon died on 6th March 1959, resident of Barrowden. Military History

Leonard Samuel Tee Boon served as a Guardsman (8369) in the 4th Battalion, Guards Machine Gun Regiment. He attested in Kettering on 19th May 1916. Mobilised 3rd July 1918 in Northampton. Leonard’s civilian occupation furnace labourer. Resident in Station Road, Gretton. Leonard Tee Boon transferred to the Army Reserve on 14th October 1919.

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Roland Tee Boon Roland Tee Boon was born in Gretton on 11th August 1895. He was baptised on 1st September 1895. His father was Thomas Tee Boon, his mother Sarah Agnes Tee Boon (nee Coleman) of Rutland. Thomas and Sarah had married on 24th March 1891. Thomas and Sarah had four sons Thomas Sidney, Frederick, John and Roland. Thomas Tee Boon died in 1897. Sarah Agnes Tee Boon remarried in 1898 to William Smith of Gretton. In 1901 Frederick, John and Roland were resident with their grandparents James and Sarah Coleman in Gretton. James Coleman was an agricultural labourer. In 1911 John and Roland Tee Boon were living with their mother, step-father and their half brothers/sisters Herbert, George, Ada, Walter, Robert and Dorothy. Their step-father William Smith was an ironstone labourer. John and Roland Tee Boon were both farm labourers. Roland Tee Boon married Dorothy E. Etherton in Medway, Kent in 1919. Military History

Roland Tee Boon served as a Private (15942) in the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment and later as Private (135199) in the Royal Army Medical Corps. Whilst his service record has not survived it is known he disembarked in France on 1st September 1915. Grantham Journal 25th March 1916 News has been received at Gretton by the mother of Pte. Rowland Teeboon, 7th Northamptons, that he has been wounded, though not seriously. He was a bomb-thrower, and was injured in the leg and hands. In a Canadian Hospital at the base, he was at the time of writing going on satisfactorily.

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Thomas Sidney Tee Boon Thomas Sidney Tee Boon was born in Gretton on 4th June 1891. He was baptised on 2nd July 1891. His father was Thomas Tee Boon, his mother Sarah Agnes Tee Boon (nee Coleman) of Rutland. Thomas and Sarah had married on 24th March 1891. Thomas and Sarah had four sons Thomas Sidney, Frederick, John and Roland. Thomas Tee Boon died in 1897. Sarah Agnes Tee Boon remarried in 1898 to William Smith of Gretton. In 1901 Frederick, John and Roland were resident with their grandparents James and Sarah Coleman in Gretton. James Coleman was an agricultural labourer. By 1911 Thomas Sidney Tee Boon was working as a groom at Hargate Hall, Worm Hill, Derbyshire. In 1921 Thomas Tee Boon married Lucy May Beck at Chapel En Le Firth, Derbyshire. In 1939 Thomas, Lucy and family were living at Worm Hill. Thomas was a farmer. Thomas Sidney Tee Boon died in 1973. Military History

Thomas Sidney Tee Boon’s service record has not survived. Thomas served as a Private (2291, 200440) in the Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment).

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Leonard Villette Leonard Villette was born in Gretton on 13th March 1898. He was baptised on 8th May 1898. His father was Pullette William Villette from London, his mother Charlotte Villette (nee Wymant) from Gretton. William and Charlotte married in 1886. In 1911 William and Charlotte were living in Gretton with their children Sidney, Herbert, William, Annie, Leonard and Florence. William was an ironstone labourer. Also resident were three ironstone labourers boarding with the Villette family, including John & Thomas Boon of Gretton. By 1911 Sydney was also an ironstone labourer, whilst William and Leonard were farm labourers. The Villette’s had three more children Percy, Mary and Edith. The 1920 Absent Voter’s List has Private (31142) Leonard Villette with the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. Leonard Villette married Lillian Wymant in 1930. In the 1931 Electoral Register Leonard was living in Craxford Lane. In 1939 Leonard, Lillian and family were living at Crown Cottage, Gretton. Leonard was a “labourer on ARP”. Leonard Villette died in 1963. Military History Leonard Villette served as a Private (31142) in the Northamptonshire Regiment. Leonard’s older brother Sidney Villette served with the 6th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He was killed in action on 7th August 1917 on the Western Front. Leonard’s brother William Villette served with the Royal Garrison Artillery and returned home.

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William Villette William Villette was born in Gretton on 21st October 1894. He was baptised on 18th December 1898. His father was Pullette William Villette from London, his mother Charlotte Villette (nee Wymant) from Gretton. William and Charlotte married in 1886. In 1911 William Snr. and Charlotte were living in Gretton with their children Sidney, Herbert, William, Annie, Leonard and Florence. William was an ironstone labourer. Also resident were three ironstone labourers boarding with the Villette family, including John & Thomas Boon of Gretton. By 1911 Sidney was also an ironstone labourer, whilst William jnr. and Leonard were farm labourers. The Villette's had three more children Percy, Mary and Edith. The 1921 Absent Voter’s List has Lance Bombardier William Villette of 56 Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery registered. William Villette married Florence E Hagues on 8th November 1919. In 1939 William Villette was an insurance agent and staying with Stanley & Phyllis Russell in Amersham. William Villette died in Hillingdon in 1969. Military History William Villette joined the Army pre-war on 5th January 1914. William was to become a regular soldier (40288, 1409436) with the Royal Artillery. His civilian occupation at time of enlistment was ironstone labourer. William became a Lance Bombardier and served with the 56 Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. William Villette was discharged from the Army on 17th November 1935. William’s older brother Sidney Villette served with the 6th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He was killed in action on 7th August 1917 on the Western Front. William’s brother Leonard Villette served with the Northamptonshire Regiment and returned home.

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George Waterfield George Waterfield was born in Gretton on 9th December 1894. He was baptised on 7th April 1985. His father was Matthew Waterfield from Gretton, his mother Elizabeth Waterfield (nee Simmons) from Woodnewton. In the 1901 Census Matthew and Elizabeth were living in Gretton with their children Emily, Ettie, George, Elsie and Matthew. Two older children Gertrude and Charlotte were not recorded at the property. Matthew Waterfield was employed as a railway labourer. Matthew and Elizabeth had another son John William born in 1904. By 1911 George Waterfield was a “horseman on farm”, whilst his father continued to work on the railway. There is a record of a George Waterfield (b.1895) working as a drayman on the railways. He was a member of the National Union of Railwaymen, Wellingborough Branch. Whether this was George Waterfield of Gretton is unverified. George Waterworth married Hilda M. Knight in Wellingborough in September 1923. In 1939 George and Hilda were living in The Square, Wellingborough. George was employed as a butcher/shopkeeper. George Waterworth died in Brixworth in 1960. Military History George Waterfield served as a Private (23589) initially in the 9th (Service) Battalion, Norfolk Regiment then the 1/4th Battalion of the Norfolks. Based upon a medical record, George may have joined the Regiment around December 1915 and joined the 9th Battalion in the field around May 1916. On 15th September 1916 George Waterfield was injured in action suffering a gunshot wound to a knee joint. On that day, the 9th Battalion (part of the 6th Division) were engaged in the Battle of Flers-Courcelette (15th-22nd September 1916). The 9th Battalion were in trenches in Trones Wood and were part of an attack on German positions near the Ginchy to Leuze Wood road. The Battalion suffered heavy casualties with 431 ordinary ranks killed or injured, 4 officers killed, 13 officers wounded and two missing. Most casualties were caused by heavy machine gun fire

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from German positions, although some occurred early in the offensive from “friendly fire” from a British tank. The Battalion eventually retreated badly beaten. Further details regarding George Waterfield’s military service are currently unknown.

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Sidney Weston Sidney Weston was born in Gretton on 30th November 1895. His father was George Weston of Gretton, his mother Mary Elizabeth Weston (nee White). In 1901 George and Mary were living in Gretton with their children Kate, John, George, Mary, Sidney, Gertrude and Steven. George Weston worked as a platelayer on the railway, daughter Kate was a machinist and son John an errand boy. In 1911 George, Mary and children Kate, George, Mary, Sidney, Gertrude, Henry, Percy, Herbert and Mary were living in Gretton. Sidney Weston was a baker’s assistant. Sidney Weston worked for the railway at the time he enlisted in 1914 and was working in Godmanchester. Sidney’s father George Weston died in 1918. Sidney Weston married Phyllis Freeman in Weldon in 1928. In 1939 George and family were living in The Manse, Gretton. He was employed as a “Railway Parcel Porter”. Sidney Weston eventually worked at the Corby Steel Works as a traffic manager through to his retirement. Sidney’s mother Mary Elizabeth Weston (nee White) died in 1953. Sidney Weston died on 5th June 1980. Military Service

Sidney Weston was working in Godmanchester in 1914. Sidney was a member of the Huntingdonshire Cyclists Battalion Territorial Army (416). When war broke out Sidney Weston was mobilised for war service. Sidney was transferred to the Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry where he served as a Private (20730). He served on the Western Front. During 1916 he suffered a shrapnel wound to his knee and returned to the United Kingdom recuperating in Nettley Hospital, Southampton. Eventually Sidney Weston returned to France and was to serve as a Private (144670) in the Machine Gun Corps. Sidney Weston left disembodied on 23rd June 1919. Additional reference Gretton Local History Society “Taking Stock of WW1”

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Charles James Whitmee (1894-1935)

George William Whitmee (1884-1937)

The Whitmee brothers were both born in Gretton. Their mother was Hannah Elizabeth Whitmee (b. Gretton 1862). Their grandparents were John Whitmee and Sophia Ann Whitmee (nee Pruden).

Family History

In the 1881 Census Hannah was living in Gretton with her father John (a widower) who was an agricultural labourer. Hannah had a daughter Sophia Ann (3 months).

George William Whitmee was born in 1884.

In 1888 it is recorded that Hannah (described as a domestic servant) was imprisoned for 6 months hard labour. Hannah was convicted of “concealment of birth” when the dead body of a baby was found.

By the 1891 Census Hannah and her two children Sophia Ann & George were inmates in the workhouse in Uppingham.

Charles James Whitmee was born in 1894.

Both George and Charles Whitmee were baptised in Gretton on 24th May 1896.

By 1901 Hannah (now 38 years of age) and her two sons were back resident in Gretton. Hannah’s occupation was charwoman, whilst George was employed as an agricultural labourer.

The 1911 Census details that George was employed as a labourer on the railways, whilst Charles was employed as a farm labourer.

There are records showing that a G W Whitmee was a member of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants in 1904, based in Croydon. His designation was “lad porter” aged 17 years old.

Further detail, from the records of the National Union of Railwaymen from 1913, show George employed as a “labourer”.

Military History

The service records of George and Charles have not survived.

It is known that Charles James Whitmee originally enlisted in the Northamptonshire Regiment on 19th November 1915, serving as a Private (23441). At some stage he was transferred to the 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment (43668).

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There is reference in medical records, that Lance Corporal G W Whitmee (43668) of the Essex Regiment suffered a “gunshot wound head and left shoulder” in December 1916 whilst serving on the Somme.

There is further reference in a local newspaper from September 1918 that “Mrs Whitmee of Gretton has heard from her son Charles Whitmee that he has been wounded in the chest and back, and is in hospital…”

Charles James Whitmee was discharged from the Army on 22nd August 1919.

George William Whitmee served as a Sapper in the Royal Engineers (194602, WR/259416). He served in the railways sub-unit.

Post-War

Charles James Whitmore continued to live in Gretton with his mother, Hannah. Charles worked for the railway as a platelayer. He was tragically killed in 1935 whilst working in the Corby Tunnel. Charles “stepped in the wrong direction” when an express train approached and was hit, hurling his body some way from the track. An inquest was held in the Hatton Arms. The inquest heard that his body had been identified by his sister, Sophia Ann Love of Leicester. The inquest heard that Charles had been employed by the railway for nearly twenty years.

George William Whitmee died in Gretton in 1937 of natural causes. His occupation was recorded as “bricklayer’s labourer.”

Hannah Elizabeth Whitmee outlived both of her sons. Hannah died in 1943 in Leicester.

Reference - Gretton Local History Society

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Reverend Maurice Winnard Maurice Winnard was born on 21st May 1883 in Todmorden, Yorkshire. His father was Ben Winnard, his mother Ann Winnard (nee Cockcroft) both from Yorkshire. In 1881 Ben, Ann and their children Maurice, Ellen and Harry were living in Todmorden. Ben Winnard was a carter. In 1901 the family were living in Prince Street, Todmorden. Ben Winnard was still a grocer’s carter. Maurice was employed as a slipper maker, Ellen as a slipper maker (machinist) and Harry was a printer’s errand boy. By 1911 Maurice Winnard had enrolled as a student at the Baptist College in Chorlton, Manchester. In 1914 Maurice’s brother Harry Winnard married Ellen Sutcliffe (10.10.14). Maurice Winnard commenced his pastoral duties in Gretton on 1st January 1915 as Minister at the Baptist Chapel. Maurice was to serve the community in Gretton for the next 12 years. In December 1918 Maurice Winnard married Myrtle Hackett in the Congregational Chapel, Harringworth. The service was conducted by Rev. R. W. Winstanley of Uppingham. In 1927 Maurice Winnard was removed from Gretton to take-up a posting in King’s Langley, Hertfordshire. In 1939 Maurice and Myrtle Winnard were resident in The Manse, Crown Road, East Dereham. Maurice was still a Baptist Minister. Maurice Winnard died in Norfolk in 1941. Military History Maurice Winnard served in the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA). His rank was “Reverend”. Maurice first served in France from 29th June 1916. He was to spend 18 months in total on the Western Front.

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When in Gretton during the War, Maurice Winnard conducted or participated in many memorial services commemorating Gretton’s fallen soldiers. He was deeply respected by the local community.

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Charles William Cyril Woolston Charles William Cyril Woolston was born in Gretton on 28th May 1899. He was baptised in Gretton on 25th June 1899. His father was Charles Brown Woolston of Gretton, his mother Susannah Woolston (nee Morris) of Notting Hill, London. Charles and Susannah married in Islington on 25th April 1893. In 1901 Charles, Susannah and their children Ann, Thomas Alfred Morris, Clara and Charles William Cyril were living in Gretton. Charles Brown Woolston was a farmer. By 1911 the family were living at The Hollies, Gretton. Another daughter Vera Irene had been born. Ann Woolston was a “farmer’s daughter engaged in dairy work”, whilst Thomas Woolston was a “farmer’s son working on the farm”. Charles William Cyril Woolston was at school. In 1918 Charles Woolston’s brother Thomas Alfred Morris Woolston appeared before the Northamptonshire Military Tribunal. He was permitted a three-month exemption as he was the “only man left to run the farm” (Case 9135, date 17th May 1918). After the war Charles William Cyril and his brother Thomas Alfred Morris lived and worked in Harringworth. Both were farmers. In 1925 the two brothers were fined by local magistrates for a breach of the Foot and Mouth Disease Regulations for allowing cattle to stray on the highway in Harringworth. Charles William Cyril Woolston married Florence Ivy Sherwin in 1935. In 1939 Charles and Florence were living at Greenwood, Gretton. Charles was still a farmer. In 1939 Thomas Woolston was fined by local magistrates for allowing horses to stray on the highway. Ironically, Thomas Alfred Morris Woolston of Avenue Farm, Gretton was appointed a magistrate for Oundle in 1943. Military History The Gretton War Memorial is inscribed with the name of Cyril Woolston as having “served & returned”, however details of his service record are unclear. From his brother Thomas Alfred Morris Woolston’s Tribunal Case of 1918, Charles William Cyril Woolston was on war service. It is suggested he [Charles] served in the Northamptonshire Regiment but this cannot currently be confirmed.

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Charles Wootton Charles Wootton was born in Gretton on 28th December 1898. He was baptised in Gretton on 5th March 1899. His father was William Wootton of Gretton, his mother Sarah Louisa Wootton (nee Nichols) of St. Neots. William and Sarah were married in 1895. In 1901 William, Sarah and their children William Henry and Charles were living in Gretton. William Wootton was a blacksmith & farmer. Also with the family was William’s younger brother Ernest T. Wootton, also a blacksmith. In 1901 William and Sarah had another son, Thomas Arthur Wootton. By 1911 William Henry had joined his father as a blacksmith. Charles Wootton was at school. Charles Wootton married Gertrude A. Weston in 1924. Charles Wootton’s brother William Henry Wootton married Florence Lily Boon in 1936. In 1939 Charles and Gertrude were living in Harringworth Road, Gretton. Charlie was a farmer. Charles Wootton’s brother William Henry died in 1978. Charles Wootton died in 1984. Military History Charles Wootton enlisted on 24th November 1916. Initially he was a Private (22408) in the 20th Training Reserve Battalion, then a Private (TR/5/113886) in the £0th Training Reserve Battalion and finally joined the Machine Gun Corps (131952) on 23rd April 1917. According to fragments of Charles Wootton’s service record, his health suffered after the war and he had to give up his occupation as blacksmith and became a farm labourer.

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William Henry Wootton William Henry Wootton was born in Gretton on 7th May 1896. He was baptised in Gretton on 6th July 1896. His father was William Wootton of Gretton, his mother Sarah Louisa Wootton (nee Nichols) of St. Neots. William and Sarah were married in 1895. In 1901 William, Sarah and their children William Henry and Charles were living in Gretton. William Wootton was a blacksmith & farmer. Also with the family was William’s younger brother Ernest T. Wootton, also a blacksmith. In 1901 William and Sarah had another son Thomas Arthur Wootton. By 1911 William Henry had joined his father as a blacksmith. Charles Wootton was at school. William Henry Wootton married Florence Lily Boon in 1936. William Henry’s father William Wootton died on 2nd September 1936. In 1939 William Henry & Florence were living in Jubilee Cottage, Gretton. William was a farmer. Also registered at the property was Ida Boon (b.1900) a tailor’s machinist and probably a relative of Florence. William Henry’s mother Sarah Louisa Wootton of High Street, Gretton died on 25th April 1965. William Henry Wootton of Craxford Road, Gretton died on 27th February 1978. Military History William Henry Wootton served as a Private (G/10337) in The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment). He enlisted on 8th November 1915. William Wootton was discharged on 1st August 1917 due to wounds received. William Henry Wootton’s brother Charles Wootton enlisted on 24th November 1916. Initially he was a Private (22408) in the 20th Training Reserve Battalion, then a Private (TR/5/113886) in the X0th Training Reserve Battalion and finally joined the Machine Gun Corps (131952) in 1917.

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Fred Wykes Fred Wykes was born in Gretton in 1894. His father was William Wykes of Broughton, his mother Elizabeth Wykes (nee Tomalin) of Long Buckby. William and Elizabeth had married in 1878. In 1891 William and Elizabeth were living in Pages Row, Gretton with their five daughters, Emma (b. Long Buckby), Kate (b. Twywell), Ellen, Annie and Gertrude (all born in Woodford). William was employed as an engine driver. William and Elizabeth had two sons whilst in Gretton, William jnr. born 1892 and Fred born 1894. The family relocated to Newton near Geddington some time before 1899. In 1901 the Wykes family were living at the Ironstone Works, Rushton Road, Newton. William was employed as an “engine driver in ironstone mine”. With William and Elizabeth were their children Gertrude, William Tomlin, Fred and Bertie (b. Geddington). In 1911 William (now an engine fitter), Elizabeth, William Tomlin, Fred and Bertie were living at Storefield Cottages, Newton. William Tomlin was employed as a “steam navvie driver” and Fred as a “stoker on steam navvie”. Also boarding at the property was widower Eli Goodgame from Oxford, an ironstone labourer. Military History Fred Wykes enlisted in Kettering on 31st August 1914. He was to serve as a Private (12966) with the Northamptonshire Regiment. His civilian occupation was stoker. On 31st October 1914 he was posted to the 8th Battalion, then posted to the 3rd Battalion on 5th December 1914. On 15th November 1915 he was released from military service to work for Messrs. Joseph Booth & Bros. Ltd, Union Foundry & Ironworks, Rodley, Leeds. He was engaged in munitions work. The company were originally engineers & crane manufacturers. On 27th January 1916 he was posted back to the battalion depot. On 11th March 1916 he married Sarah Ann Bugg in Bramley, Yorkshire. On 15th December 1917 he was discharged from the Army being no longer physically fit. Fred had phthisis, aggravated by his ordinary military service.

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It is not currently known if Fred’s brother, William Tomlin Wykes (b. Gretton), served during the war. There is a Private William T. Wykes (3215) recorded serving with the 10th Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment, but it cannot currently be confirmed that this was Fred’s brother.

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William Palmer Wyman William Palmer Wyman was born in Gretton on 6th July 1892. His mother was Emma Wyman of Gretton. Emma Wyman married Thomas Abbott an agricultural labourer originally from Polebrook in Gretton on 13th October 1896. William Palmer Wyman attended school in Deene from 12th April 1897. His father’s name was given as William. William Palmer Wyman left Deene School on 15th October 1897 when the family left to live in Gretton. In 1901 Thomas and Emma were living in Gretton with their children William, Matthew and Thomas. William Clipson an agricultural labourer was a boarder with the family. In 1911 Thomas, Emma and their children William Palmer Wyman, Matthew, Thomas, Alfred James and Mary Elizabeth Annie. William Palmer Wyman was employed as a domestic groom. William Palmer Wyman married Elsie M. Hippey in Rugby in 1920. In 1939 William and Elsie Wyman were living in Victoria Crescent, Shardlow, Derbyshire. William was working on the railway. William was a member of the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade. William Palmer Wyman died in Ilkeston, Derbyshire in 1972. Military Service

William Palmer Wyman served as a Driver (89113) in the Royal Field Artillery. William served in France from 20th May 1915.

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Arthur Wymant Arthur Wymant was born in Gretton on 18th April 1879. His father was William Wymant, his mother Ann Wymant both of Gretton. In some documents the family name is inscribed as “Wyman” rather than “Wymant”. In 1881 William and Ann were living in Gretton with their children Emily and Arthur. William Wymant was an agricultural labourer. In 1891 the family were living in The Nook, Gretton. William Wymant was a farm labourer. With William and Ann were their children Arthur, Herbert, Ellen, William and Martha. With the family was a lodger Slaney Jones an ironstone labourer. In 1901 William Wymant was employed as a railway labourer. William Wymant Jnr. was employed as a boot maker. With William and Mary were children William, Martha & Annie. Slaney Jones was still lodging with the family. In 1911 widow Ann Wymant is living in Gretton with her sons Arthur (a yardman) and William Jnr. (a boot maker). Arthur Wymant married Eleanor Lattimer in Gretton on 11th July 1911. Arthur and Lena had a daughter Doris Wymant on 12th December 1914. During the 1920’s and early 1930’s Arthur and Eleanor were living in Sanctuary End, Gretton. Arthur’s mother Ann Wymant died in 1933. In 1939 Arthur, Eleanor and Doris were living in High Street, Gretton. Arthur was employed as a coal yardman. Arthur Wymant died on 14th April 1941. He was buried in Gretton. Military Service

Arthur Wymant served as a Gunner (178737) in the Royal Garrison Artillery. Arthur Wymant attested in Kettering on 26th November 1915. Arthur’s civilian occupation was yardman. He was transferred to the Army Reserve. On 10th November 1917 Arthur was mobilised for war service reporting for duty in Derby on 13th November 1917.

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Arthur was posted to the RGA Depot on 10th November 1917. He was posted to 515 Siege Battery on 24th November 1917. On 27th February 1918 was posted to the Siege School, Aldershot. Arthur Wymant was discharged from the Army on 1st November 1918 being no longer physically fit for war service. Arthur’s brother William Wymant served as an Acting Bombardier in the Royal Garrison Artillery. William was killed in action near Ypres on the Western Front on 7th July 1917.

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Charles Wymant Charles Wymant was born in Gretton about 1884. His mother was Fanny Wymant (nee Clipson). Fanny Clipson married Joseph Wymant on 30th January 1865. In 1891 widow Fanny Wymant was living in Craxford Lane, Gretton with her children widow Mary Smith (nee Wymant), John, Sarah, Florence, William, Charles and Gertrude. Grandson Joseph Wymant was also resident. Mary & Sarah were employed in a clothing factory. Sons John and William were employed as ironstone labourers. In 1901 Mary was a dressmaker, John an ironstone worker, Sarah & Gertrude were tailor’s machinists, whilst son Charles was an agricultural labourer. Charles Wymant’s mother Fanny Wymant (nee Clipson) died in 1909. In 1911 Charles Wymant was boarding with Ernest & Clara King and family. Charles Wymant was an ironstone labourer. Charles Wymant married Sarah Ann Spence on 12th August 1916 in Wymingham, Northampton. Charles and Sarah lived in The Cottage, Wood Lane, Gretton. In 1939 Charles & Sarah were living in Kirby Road, Gretton. Charles was employed as a platelayer and charge hand working in iron ore mines. Charles Wymant died on 17th November 1965. Military Service

Charles Wymant served as a Private (17514) in the Northamptonshire Regiment. Charles Wymant enlisted in Kettering on 2nd March 1915. His civilian occupation was platelayer. He was posted to the 3rd Battalion on 7th March 1915. On 3rd June 1915 Charles Wymant arrived in France and was posted to the 2nd Battalion. Charles returned to the United Kingdom on 16th December 1915. Charles was posted to the Depot in Northampton. On 17th November 1916 Charles sustained an injury to his left hand whilst on “coal fatigue”. This resulted in the loss of his little finger. Charles Wymant was reposted to the 3rd Battalion on 3rd May 1917. Charles Wymant was discharged from the Army on 5th January 1918 due to being physically unfit. Charles Silver War Badge number was 307954.

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David Wymant MM David Wymant was born in Gretton in 1895. He was baptised in Gretton on 1st September 1895. His father was David Wymant of Gretton, his mother Mary Ann Wymant of Harringworth. In 1891 David and Mary were living in West End, Gretton with their children Joseph, Clara, Samuel, Mary Jane, Charlotte and Henry. David Wymant was an ironstone labourer, whilst son Joseph Wymant was a general labourer. Joseph was to enlist in the Royal Field Artillery and became a professional soldier. In 1901 David was still working as an ironstone labourer. Daughters Clara, Mary Jane & Charlotte were machinists in a clothing factory. Samuel Wymant was a “horseman on farm”. David and Mary had five more children Mabel, Maud, David Jnr., Beatrice & Fanny. By 1911 David and Mary were living with their children Samuel, Charlotte, Mabel, David, Beatrice & Ethel. Samuel was employed as a carter for a brewery. Charlotte, Mabel & Beatrice were working in a clothing factory, David Wymant Jnr. was employed as a farm labourer. David Wymant Jnr. is quoted as being the first Gretton man to enlisted for the Army in August 1914. David’s father David Wymant Snr. died in 1915. According to the Electoral Roll David Wymant was living in Craxford Lane in 1928. Military Service

David Wymant Jnr. was to serve as a Sergeant (86652) in the Royal Field Artillery on the Western Front. He was awarded the Military Medal (Gazette date 2nd November 1917) whilst an Acting Sergeant. In the Grantham Journal of 15th September 1917 –

Gretton Corporal Recommended “Mrs. Wymant, Gretton, has received a letter from her son, Cpl. D. Wymant, stating he has been promoted Sergeant, and also recommended for the Military Medal, for bravery in the field and bringing in wounded while under very heavy shrapnel fire. Sergt. Wymant writes that he had a terrible ordeal to go through. He was the first to

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enlist in August 1914, and this is the second time he has been overseas, for he was wounded and was in England for a considerable time suffering from nervous breakdown.” The Northampton Mercury of 14th September 1917 reported – “Corporal D. Wymant of Gretton has been promoted sergeant and recommended for the Military Medal for bravery in the field and good work in bringing in the wounded under heavy shell fire. Sergeant Wymant was the first Gretton man to enlist in August 1914.” David Wymant’s older brother Joseph Wymant served as a Sergeant in the 1/5th (Hampshire) Battery, Royal Field Artillery. He was a professional soldier. He died of wounds in Mesopotamia on 26th December 1915. David’s brother Samuel Wymant served in the Royal Flying Corps then the Royal Air Force. Samuel returned home in 1919.

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Samuel Wymant Samuel Wymant was born in Gretton on 9th April 1881. His father was David Wymant of Gretton, his mother Mary Ann Wymant of Harringworth. In 1891 David and Mary were living in West End, Gretton with their children Joseph, Clara, Samuel, Mary Jane, Charlotte and Henry. David Wymant was an ironstone labourer, whilst son Joseph Wymant was a general labourer. Joseph was to enlist in the Royal Field Artillery and became a professional soldier. In 1901 David was still working as an ironstone labourer. Daughters Clara, Mary Jane & Charlotte were machinists in a clothing factory. Samuel Wymant was a “horseman on farm”. David and Mary had five more children Mabel, Maud, David, Beatrice & Fanny. By 1911 David and Mary were living with their children Samuel, Charlotte, Mabel, David, Beatrice & Ethel. Samuel was employed as a carter for a brewery. Charlotte, Mabel & Beatrice were working in a clothing factory, David Wymant Jnr. was employed as a farm labourer. Military Service

Samuel Wymant attested for the Army on 9th October 1916. His civilian occupation was drayman. His next of kin was his mother Mary Ann Wymant of Gretton. Samuel served in the Royal Flying Corps as an Air Mechanic 1 (57663) from 6th January 1917. He was transferred to the Royal Air Force on 1st April 1918 and served as a Clerk 1st Class. Samuel Wymant was transferred to the RAF Reserve on 12th April 1918. He was deemed discharged on 30th April 1920.

Samuel Wymant’s older brother Joseph Wymant served as a Sergeant in the 1/5th (Hampshire) Battery, Royal Field Artillery. He was a professional soldier. He died of wounds in Mesopotamia on 26th December 1915. Samuel’s brother David Wymant served as a Sergeant in the Royal Field Artillery on the Western Front. David was awarded the Military Medal in 1917.