William Hall - Not sure due to another William Hall in the area

Born in 1894, Darwen

Age: 23

Reg no: 15439

Rank: Sgt

Chorley Pals, 11 East Lancashire Regiment

Name is on the Whittle le Woods,1914-1915 Roll of Honour

He was working  as a Cotton Weaver at Swansea Mill as of 1911 and lived at 8 Tootell Terrace, Clayton le Woods as of WW1

He went to St Bede's Church

Wounded on 1 July 1916 and sent to Leicester Hospital

Son of Richard and Sarah 

So just to add to the confusion here are two William Halls with Clayton and Whittle connections

1) William Hall, Born 1894, Darwen. Son of Richard and Sarah Blackledge, Brother of Robert Hall- Killed in Action who is on the War Memorial.

Would make sense to have a brother also serving 

Living at Tootall Terrace in 1911

Still in Clayton le Woods as of 1921

I was leaning towards the above person until I found this person - But as you can see, with a bit of research I discovered this-

2) William Hall, Born oct\nov\dec 1892, Brinscall, and Baptized at Darwen on 22 Jan 1893, Son of Enoch Hall and Mary Elizabeth Blogg

Living at 2 Garfield Terrace, Chorley in 1901

Father Enoch is living at 38 Preston Road, Chorley in 1911, but no William Hall is present!

The 1911 census says 4 out of 5 children are still living

The 1921 census has Enoch, a widower, still living at 38 Preston Road, Chorley.

With only, single daughters Elizabeth and Evelina.

In the 1939 census, Enoch is still alive

No trace of William Hall 

I think this would mean that this family without a traceable "William Hall"  is not the one on the Roll of Honour! 

Because I believe he died in c1911 at age 18? a month before the census was taken?

Making this William Hall (2) connected to me in the family tree via the Bloggs

He is on my family tree

103

Peter Handley - Possible need to double-check

Possible Royal Navy as of 15 April 1918 

Living at Clayton Green in 1911

104

Ernest Hargreaves

Born about Oct 1885, Pendleton

Age: 30, and 10 months

Reg no: 192192

Rank: Driver

ASC (M)

In 1901, Brothers Ernest and William were living at Waterhouse Green, and both Cotton Weaving, locally

Their parents are William Peter Hargreaves, Machine Printer (died 1906), and Hannah Kerfoot

In 1911, aged 25 he was a Calico Printers Labourer

Just before WW1, Ernest "Ernie" Hargreaves and his brother William "Bill" Hargreaves

ran a local private Motor Service, called Hargreaves Motor Service with a Taxi and a Charabanc

It's obvious by the units they joined that their experience in vehicle's and driving became useful when they joined the Army 

Enlisted on 27 June 1916 at Chorley

And living at Fern Villa, Preston road

Driver and Labourer as Trade

As of 2 October 1917 joined 2 Water Tank co

Demobilized 24 February 1920

Married in 1910 at St John the Evangelist, Whittle le Woods

His wife is Elizabeth Nee Pass,

Their children are Bessie and William Peterson Hargreaves

As of 1920 living at Millstone Hill, Whittle le Woods

He died on 27 Dec 1953 at 116 Preston Rd, Whittle le Woods

Brother of William Hargreaves below

105

Fred Hargreaves

Born 1 Dec 1891 Chorley

Age: 25 and 1 month

Reg no: 72003

Rank: Sergt

157 Battery, RGA

159 RGA?

He enlisted on 15 December 1915 at Chorley 

Married Lily Pearson on 11 August 1915 at Whittle le Woods, Parish Church

Living at 8 Smiths Terrace, Clayton le Woods

He was a Pressman in a Rubber Manufacturers 

Served at home from 4 April 1916 until 14 September 1916

Then sent to Mesopotamia from 15 September 1916

Discharged on 16 December 1919

As of 2\12\2020, I have made a discovery ... I've related to Fred Hargreave's wife Lily Pearson, she is my 3rd cousin 3 x removed via her maternal grandmother Eliza Peel.

106

William Hargreaves

Born in 1882, in Pendleton

Age: 33, and 11 months

Rank: Pte

Reg no: 226692

621 Coy, Army Service Corp (MT)

Just before WW1, Ernest "Ernie" Hargreaves and William "Bill" Hargreaves ran a local private Motor Service, called Hargreaves Motor Service with a taxi and a Charabanc

It's obvious by the units they joined that their experience in vehicle's and driving became useful when they joined the Army 

Enlisted on 9 December 1915 at Whittle le Woods, overseen by "Lawrence Cotton" 

He lived at Bank House, Preston Road

And he is now a Taxi Proprietor (Driver)

Married Emily Anna Wilcox. 

Children - William, Mabel, and Eva

Admitted to West Bridgford VAD Hospital, Musters Road, Nottingham (sometimes known as Musters Road Military Hospital) for 103 days from 31 March 1917 until 11 July 1917 suffering from Lithiasis

Think that's gallstones

He had Defective Vision in the right eye, originating in March 1917 in France

Discharged as being no longer physically fit for war service on 13 August 1917

Died 1950

107

Arthur Hartley

Born in 1878, Chorley

Age: 36

Rank: Pte

Reg no: 25107

3 The Kings Liverpool Regiment

Enlisted on 22 December 1914 at Chorley

Married Alice Bamber at St John Church, Whittle le Woods

Lived at Bridge Street, Whittle le Woods

Children - Arthur Hartley Born 21 February 1912

A Labourer

Discharged on 5 August 1916 as no longer physically fit for war service. With Double Hernia

As of 1918? is living at 3 Ribblesdale Terrace

108

James Haydock - Possible need to double-check

Born 1896 in Clayton le Woods

Died 1957

Son of Robert and Ann

109

William Heap

Born 1893 in Blackburn

Age: 22, and 1 month

Rank: Pte

Reg no:

His name is on the Clayton le Woods, Church of England School 1914-1915 Roll of Honour

Enlisted on 30 March 1915

General Labourer as Trade

As mentioned by his Father-

Pte William Heap serving with the Australians and once been wounded in the arm

Brother of Christopher and Walter both KIA

Also RF Heap (RFA) and Robert Heap (LNLR)

Son of Robert Heap, also a former soldier 16 years in the 47th Regiment 

110

Herbert Hebblethwaite 

Born in 1890

Age: 25, 4 mths

Rank: Pte

Reg no: 205090

5 Lancashire Fusiliers

Think he was last in Labour Corp as 646411

Herbert Hebblethwaite Enlisted on 12 December 1915 at Leyland

Lived at Woodcock Farm, Clayton le Woods as of enlistment.

Mother is Jemima Emily Hebblethwaite, Woodcock Farm

His service record says he served at home from 19 May 1917 until 28 March 1917

He then served in France, from 24 August 1917 until 1 October 1917

Then sent back home on 2 October 1917

 Whilst serving in France he suffered a GSW to the Back, Pent to Chest on 21 September 1917

His name is on the wounded list in the Weekly Casualty List (War Office & Air Ministry ) - Tuesday 13 November 1917

Discharged on 13 May 1919

His wife is Annie Elizabeth Mellish, whom he married in 1919 at St Saviors, Bamber Bridge

I believe he was living at 23 Club Street, Bamber Bridge in 1939 with his 

He is incapacitated

Died 5 April 1969 at 23 Club Street, Bamber Bridge

111

William Heatley- updated 28\3\2023

Born c1880

Age: 34

Rank: Pte

Reg no: 276863

1/7 Manchester Regiment

Previously in Kings Liverpool 48581, 35466, 4784

Possible he was boarding at Brownley Street in 1911 

William Heatley Enlisted on 14 November 1914

By June 1915 he was in the 15 Kings Liverpool Regiment and with fellow Whittlers was AWOL

He was Discharged on 20 February 1919

He did serve overseas and was wounded-

As of 20 May 2020, I found a W Heatley,  Reg no: 276863 in

the Manchester Regiment wounded section of the Weekly Casualty List (War Office & Air Ministry ) - Tuesday 07 May 1918

Living at Bridge Street, Whittle le Woods

Son of James Heatley and Nancy Heatley 

112

Walter Helme

Born

Age:

Rank:

Reg no:

His name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914 - 1915 Roll of Honour

No trace of him

113

Alfred E Higham

Born on  26th March 1896, Whittle le Woods

Age: 18 years, 5 months, 23 days

Rank: Pte

Reg no: 15443

Chorley Pals, 11 East Lancashire Regiment

Enlisted on 18th September 1914

Alfred Higham lived at 10 Rock Villa Road, Whittle le Woods, and he used to go to St John's Church. 

He was a weaver on joining up.

Suffered from trench foot in November of 1916

He was admitted to 11 Casualty Clearing Station with ICT feet as of the 2nd December 1916, and then he was transferred to an ambulance train a few days later

Sent to Queen Alexandra's Military Hospital in Millbank, London suffering from trench foot as of 9th December 1916

Discharged on 1st March 1917.

Transferred to 6 East Lancashire Regiment  

Son of David and Keziah Higham

He lived at Diamond Villas, Whittle le Woods

Married to Arabella Sharples in 1927 at Chorley

Had a Daughter called Dorothy Higham, born 2928, died 2012

In 1939 he was working as an Explosive Worker at the ROF 

Living at 5 Hope Street, Chorley

Died about 1981 at Chorley aged 85

Brother of both below

114

David Higham

Born in 1892

Age: 22 , and 10 days

Reg no: 13419

3rd Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

A labour as of Enlistement

Suffered from Epilepsy for 4 years according to his medical report on 20 December 1915 

David Higham Enlisted on 2 September 1914 at Chorley and posted to 10 Battalion 14 September 1914

On 6 January 1915 he is posted to 3rd Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

David Higham was discharged on 15 January 1916 after previously having fits and became violent towards others and became a nuisance in the company.

Did not serve overseas

Lived at 10 Rock Villa Road, Whittle le Woods as of Discharge 

Mother was Keziah of Diamond Villas, Whittle le Woods

115

James Higham

Born 1888, 

Age: 27 and 6 months

Rank: Pte

Reg no: 77886

11 Field Amb, RAMC

 Enlisted on 3 November 1915 in Chorley

Labourer 

Lived at Diamond Villas 

Lived at 10 Rock Villa Road

As of 9\3\2021, I have found his name in the wounded section for the RAMC in the WAR OFFICE WEEKLY CASUALTY LIST, OCTOBER 30th, 1917.

Punished for being Absent without leave from Tattoo, from 1 April 1918 to 9pm on 2 April 1918. 23 hours

7 days CB, forfeits 2 days pay 

Punished for overstaying leave from 17 May 1919 to 3 June 1919. 17 Days

Given 28 days payment forfeit as punishment 

Not sure what date but he suffered GSW to Left Shoulder and admitted to Military hospital, Trent Bridge, Nottingham

Demobilized 19 July 1919

Brother of above ?

116

Henry Hilton

Born

Age:

Rank:

Reg no:

On the Roll of Honour for Clayton le Woods C of E School

Possibly born c1889 in Clayton le Woods and died 1962, living at 79 Lancaster Lane, Clayton le Woods

Mother Nellie Hilton

In the 1921 Census he was living in Clayton le Woods

117

Joseph Hodkinson

Born

Age:

Rank:

Reg no:

His name is on the Clayton le Woods School Roll of Honour

There are 2 Joseph Hodkinson's in the area as of the 1921 Census

born 1894

born  1879

118

William Hodkinson - possible match

Born in 1884 in Wigan

Age: 27 in 1911

Rank:

Reg no:

 He lived at Swansey Fold in 1911 and he was a cycle and motor repairer

119

Fred Hodkinson

Born in 1876

Age: 33, 1 month

Reg no: 20009

Rank: Pte

Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

Height 5ft 3 inches

He Enlisted on 29 January 1915 and joins up at Preston on 29 January 1915 and was posted to the 3 Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment on 4 March 1915

According to the service record that is available and readable for Fred Hodkinson, he transferred as reg no 47324 to 163 Protection Coy, RDC, 4 Battalion Royal Defence Corp on 5 August 1917

On 10 November 1918, he transferred from 163 RDC to 199 Res Coy

On 14 January 1919, aged 37, he was medically examined, which was likely part of his Demobilisation.

Living on Moss Lane in 1911

A Cotton Weaver

Married Dora Dugdale in 1908

Their children are

William was born on 6 July 1909

Ada was born on 28 April 1912

Ronald was born on 20th May 1914

Leslie was born in 1920

At the time of enlistment, he lived at  2 Lukes Road, Whittle Springs

Fred Hodkinson is related to Brenda Trelfa, who's often found in the Roebuck Pub, having several beers

120

Ernest Baxter Holland

Born 1884, Whittle le Woods

Age: 20

Reg no:

Rank: Gunner?

Royal Artillery

Previously served in 3rd Lancashire RGA

Parents living at Whittle Springs

Married Clarissa Emma Snowdon at St Peter's, Chorley in 1909

Engineer by Trade

Demobilized on 8 June 1919 and living in Chorley

121

John Greenhalgh Hooley

Born 1885, Whittle le Woods

Age

Rank: Driver

Reg No: T4/060862

 R.A.S.C. T4/060862 Driver.

Lived at 6 Tootell Terrace, Clayton le Woods

In 1911 he was a Carter

Think he may have married Ellen Borsay in 1920 at St John the Evangelist

Had a daughter called Brenda Hooley in 1921

Union Street, Whittle le Woods in 1934

In 1939 they were living on Preston Road

Brother of Below

122

Joseph Anthony Hooley

Born 1894, Whittle le woods

Age: 19, 9 months

Reg no: 528176 

Rank: Pte

579 and 550 Labour Corp

Previously 13336, B coy, 8 Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

Enlisted at Chorley on 5 September 1914

Lived at 6 Tootell Terrace, Clayton le Woods

GSW to left leg, right arm, and right thigh. on 10 July 1916

Demobilized on 21 February 1919

Married to Edith Annie Dugdale 

Died on 3 November 1945 Chorley

123

James Houghton

Born 1877, Clayton Green

Age: abt 38 in 1915

Rank: Sgt

Reg No: Tr/3/2868

Training Reserve Battalion

Other possible No 28684, 3862 to check

His name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914 - 1915 Roll of Honour

Living at Swansey Fold, Whittle le Woods in 1911 with Wife, Margaret Ellen Garstang

Children-  Mary Agnes Houghton born in 1907, she married Jame Prescott, son of James Prescott, Killed in Action

Both are Cotton Weavers

Living at 10 Swansea Fold according to the Pension Ledger

Believe he may have died on 12 January 1923

He is connected to James Prescott - Killed in Action via his daughter Mary A. Houghton marrying James Prescott's son also called James Prescott, born 1908, Married in 1932, Chorley 

124

James Irving, also known as James Boswell Irving

Born 1 Mar 1894 , Chorley

Age: 21 in 1915

Reg no: 305576

Rank: Pte

1/8 Lancashire Fusiliers

Also Reg no 2576, Lancashire Fusiliers

Served in the Balkans and Dardanelles.

Listed as being Wounded on or about 8 May 1918

Entitled to wear a "Wound Stripe" as authorized under Army Order 204 of 6th July 1916

Looks like he was promoted to Lance Corporal

Married Elsie Mills

Died in 1982, Sefton

As of 6\12\18, I have bought a new picture of him (see picture)

125

A recently bought original picture of James "Jim " Irving

His name is in the Lancashire Fusiliers wounded list  in the Weekly Casualty List (War Office & Air Ministry ) - Tuesday 14 May 1918

William Irving* 

Born on 15 Jan 1891

Age: 24 in 1915

Rank:

Reg no

Name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914-1915 Roll of Honour 

He was a Shop Assistant in 1911

In the 1921 census

Grocer Master in 1939

Father is Robert Irving

126

Herbert Irving* 

Born 6 January 1893, Whittle le Woods

Age: 22 in 1915

Rank:

Reg no

Name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914-1915 Roll of Honour 

Cotton Weaver in 1911, living at Springs Terrace, Whittle Springs

 Herbert lived at Sandy Lane Cottage in 1939, he was a General Labourer at the Brewery

 He is with his wife Ellen 

*Both likely brothers of George Irving KIA

127

James Jackson

Born 1895

Age: 19

Reg no: 15882

8 Service Battalion, Kings Own Lancaster Regiment

Enlisted on 12 November 1914 at Chorley

Discharged on 7th June 1915

The reason is not mentioned on the record and there is not much of a record to explore

Served at home

Trade given as a Labourer

Father was John Jackson of Bridge Street, Whittle le Woods

128

Albert Thompson

Born 1881

Age: 36

Rank: Pte

Reg No: 45126

3rd Garrison Battalion, Cheshire Regiment

11th Battalion Royal Defence Corp

Originally from the Hesketh Bank area

Enlisted on 27 November 1915 

Transferred to Royal Defence Corp on 8 July 1917

Discharged on 14 November 1917 due to inflammation of spinal cord

Origin, Childhood in Ulverston

Discharged on 9 January 1919

Small thin arm and leg comparatively with the opposite side

His vision is 6/24  6/60 and has a double squint.

Due to inflammation of the spinal cord, not a result of military service

Married Emma Leader at Woodplumpton Parish Church in 1907

Children are Phyliss and Mark

Living at Town Lane, Whittle le Woods as of enlistment

Labourer by trade

His Pension Leger says he was living at Paradise Row, Whittle le Woods

129

Harry Jackson - Found more information at last as of 2\9\2023

Born in 1880

Age: 35

Reg no: 598438

339th H S W Labour Corp, last service 

Previously 17965, 7 Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

Was he a Preston Pal?

Did he join D Coy?

He married Bertha Bamber on 11 September 1902, Whittle le Woods

In 1911 living at Smiths Terrace, Whittle le Woods

Their children are Maggie, Roy, Harry, William Bamber

The record also says he Enlisted on 10 November 1914 at Chorley and he was an Overlooker as a Trade 

As mentioned he was originally serving as 17965, 7 Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, Harry Jackson sailed to France on 17 July 1915

On 22 December 1915 until 29 December 1915 whilst in the field, he was granted leave.

On 31 January 1916, he was evacuated to the Field Ambulance and rejoined on 5 February 1916.

On 25 January 1917, he was again evacuated to the Field Ambulance.

On 27 January 1917, he was admitted to 3 CCS with wounds and sent to 22 General Hospital at Camiers

Hard to read... with JCT (?) Hand and Thumb as of 30 January 1917

Sent to England via HS DIEPPE on 1 February 1917

A gap in the record...

As of 22 May 1918, he was posted to the Labour Centre at Sutton

Possibly attached to 3 Loyal North Lancashire Regiment 

Posted to 301 Res Labour Coy on 23 July 1918 then 339th H S Works, Labour Corp on 31 July 1918

On 28 September 1918, he was attached to 67, RWC Labour Coy at Newhaven

Ceased to be attached as of 10 January 1919

Despatched to the Dispersal Centre at Heaton Park on 17 January 1919

Served in France for 19 months as a Stretcher Bearer

Double Hernia 

He was transferred to class "Z" and Demobilized on 15 February 1919

Living at No 3 Smiths Terrace, Clayton le Woods, according to the Pension Ledger 

Bamber Bridge and District Overlookers Club

Brother of Richard Jackson

130

Albert Jackson

Born: 1881

Age: 33

Reg no: 359212

Rank: Pte

RASC

Married Mary Alice Burscough on 3 April 1913 at St Bede's, Clayton Green

and had a daughter Agnes Jackson

Enlisted at Chorley on 9 December 1915

Had a medical examination on 3 May 1916

Has a fractured skull which happened a few years before enlisting

Discharged, no longer physically fit for war service on 6 January 1919

Did not serve overseas

Brother in Law to another Whittle le Woods soldier, John Edward Duckett of the Labour Corp, Ex-Kings Liverpool

And William Burscough, Thomas Burscough

He died in 1931

131

William Jewes

Born 8 November 1877, Brierley Hill, Staffordshire

Age: abt 36

Rank: Pte

Reg no: 18836, 4050

Royal Irish Regiment

Name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914-1915 Roll of Honour

Think he was living at Shaw Brow, Whittle le Woods in 1911

William Jewes Enlisted at Chorley on 14 December 1914

He joined the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment as 18836 and later transfered to the Royal Irish Regiment as 4050

Still living there as of 1915, Electoral Register 

On 9 August 1917 until 17 August 1917 he is admitted to 18 General Hospital, Camiers. Suffering with P.W.O sick(?)

On 18 August 1917 until 10 October 1917 he is admitted to 1/4 Northern General Hospital, Lincoln. Sick

His medical report in 1919 says he suffered from Ac Rheumatism, orginating back in June 1915

I think he was Demobilized as of 19 March 1919

Had more medical tests as of 1921

Married Isabella Williamson

In 1939 he is living at "The Square", Waterhouse Green

Gardener, R O F Chorley

Died in 1955

132

Albert Edward Jolly 

Born 1889, Whittle le Woods

Age: 29

Service no: 251573

Air Mechanic, 2nd Grade

RAF

Enlisted from 5 Mar 1918

Served on President II  as of 5 March 1918

Tregantle as of 6 March 1918 until 31 March 1918 when transferred to RAF 

Fitter and turner as trade 

Father is James Jolly 

133

Edmund Jolly

Born 1881, Wheelton

Age: 34 in 1915

Reg no: 316001

Rank: Pte

32 Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex) Regiment

No service record found yet

Name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914-1915 Roll of Honour

Edmund Jolly Enlisted on 2 November 1914

Discharged on 27 October 1917, possibly due to illness or injury

I dont think 32 Battalion went overseas 

Living at Shaw Brow, Whittle le Woods in 1911

Possibly married Ann Worthington

Had one known child, Hilda Alice Jolly b1905

If that marriage is correct then I am related to him via his wife 

Living in Lytham st Annes as of 1939

Daughter Hilda and her husband are there too

134

Thomas Jolly, possibly also known as Thomas Amos Jolly

Born: 1 Sep 1898, Whittle le Woods

Age: 16/17 in 1915

Reg no: 15732

Rank: Pte

8 Kings Own Royal Lancaster Regiment

Enlisted about 29 April 1915 and served in France

He would be roughly 16 years 7 months 28 days at the time of his Enlistment

Under age soldier

As of 19 May 2020, I have found his name in the corrections section of the King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment in the Weekly Casualty List (War Office & Air Ministry ) - Tuesday 07 January 1919

He is listed among soldiers who were prisoners of war in Germany and have been released 

In the War office daily list for 2 January 

Demobilized as of 6 March 1919

135

John Christopher Johnson, DCM

Reg no: 37439

Rank: L/Cpl, A/Cpl

2/5 Lancashire Fusiliers

Also served in 9 Lancashire Fusiliers

As of 9\3\2021, I have found his name in the Lancashire Fusiliers wounded list WAR OFFICE WEEKLY CASUALTY LIST, SEPTEMBER 25th, 1917. Daily List of September 20th

Lived at South Hill Cottage Whittle le Woods in 1915

Also had property, Fern Mill Cottage, Grange over Sands

Awarded the DCM -

For conspicuous gallantry and resource

During an advance, he observed a party of

the enemy with a machine gun about to

open fire on his men. He at once attacked

them and captured the gun. He showed

splendid coolness and determination 

(15.11.18)

I have the War Diary page describing the day's events

136

John Robert Johnson - NEED TO RE-CHECK THIS

Born 1894

Age: 22

Reg no: 

Rank: 

B coy, 1 Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

Enlisted on 23 August 1914 at Preston

Was he Killed in Action as of 1 August 1918 or did he survive and live on until the 1970s!?

As there was a mix-up with his details during WW1 between Joseph Johnson and himself

IN THE EVENT OF MY DEATH I GIVE ALL MY

PROPERTY TO MY MOTHER ANNIE JOHNSON OF 

6 BRIDGE STREET, WHITTLE LE WOODS, NR CHORLEY, LANCASHIRE, ENGLAND

PRT  J R JOHNSON

1ST BTN L N L REGT

B COMPANY

Living in Bridge Street at of 1911

Son of William and Ann Johnson

Brother of Matthew, William, and Lena

137

Samuel Jones

Born

Age: 22

Rank:

Reg no: 243276

5 Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

Enlisted on 8 December 1915 at Chorley

Wounded GSW to the neck, severe on 12 April 1917

Discharged on 10 November 1917

The record also says DECEASED. So he must have died after coming home 

Lived at Shaw Brow, Whittle le Woods as of joining up.

Trade was a Weaver

Father is William Henry Jones

Samuel Jones is a cousin to William Justice Jones KIA and Edwin Walmsley

138

Edward Kane

Born

Age: 29

Reg no: 92378

Rank: Gunner

Royal Garrison Artillery

Edward Kane enlisted on 10 December 1915 at Leyland and was put into Army Reserve the day after.

He was mobilized on 1 June 1916 and posted to the RGA, No 2 Depot on 2 June 9 as a Gunner.

He was posted to 37 Coy, RGA on 29 June 1916

Then possibly posted to another unit, which I can't decipher

Posted to 54, Coy RGA on 30 October 1916

I believe he was serving at home for the above dates, but according to his service record he also served in Gibraltar 

from 31 October 1916

Posted to 3/1 SARB on 22 March 1918

On 24 June 1918, Edward Kanes's Doctor, Dr Charles Peddie wrote a letter to Edwards RGA Battery explaining that Edward had been ill since returning to Whittle le Woods on Friday night

The letter within his service record is hard to read, a few lines sum up the letter by Dr Peddie.

He is suffering from Influenza.

I hope to have him fit to return to duty

You may not know that we have a raging epidemic here that is the gastric variant, vomiting 

With the B.E.F as of 8 July 1918

With the 7 Siege Battery on 17 August 1918 

Demobilized from 7 Siege Battery on 17 August 1918

Living at Ribblesdale Terrace, Whittle le Woods at the time of enlistment

Rubber Worker as Trade

Married **Ellen Heatley and had children, Hubert and William, Joseph E Kane

Described as Hardworking, Smart, and Capable.

1st Class Gunner 

**Whilst looking into Edward Kanes family tree I have discovered I am related to him via my 3 x Great Aunt Caroline Peel's side who married John Heatley.

139

James Kellett

Born in 1886, Clayton le Woods

Age: 28 in 1914

Rank: Saddler

Reg no: 54122

RFA

Had nothing in this profile until 22\12\2023

He Enlisted in 1914 and as of 8 January 1915 was posted and served in France 

Died in 1976 aged 92

His parents were Joseph Kellett and Mary Grimshaw

Living at Manor Farm, Clayton Le Woods in 1911 and he was a Saddler

New Information on him is being researched as of 22\12\2023

Pete Niven has given some information on him via the Facebook page of Whittle-le-Woods Pics & Memories Old & New​

140

Joseph Kellett

Born c1890

Age: 24, 11 months

Reg no: 021999

Rank: Pte

ASC (Mechanical Transport)

5ft 7

Enlisted at Chorley on 12 December 1914

Embarked on SS MOKLA with the BEF to France

Posted to 4 Division Supply Col 

On 10 April 1917, he is awarded a Good Conduct Badge

His Parents were Henry Kellett and Alice Gerrard

Wood End Farm, Clayton Le Woods in 1911

Says Sheep Hill, Clayton Green on his Service Record

His employer GEORGE LOWES & CO LTD ( Royal Oak Hotel Yard, Chorley) sent a letter on Joseph Kellett's behalf regarding his work and character,  (the writing is hard to translate) stating-

"I have pleasure in testifying that Joseph Kellett is a very steady and dependable young man.

And a capable driver of a motor car, while engaged with us, he was always ready and willing"

Demobilized as of 9 July 1919

141

William Kellett

Born 1890, Lostock Hall, Living in Whittle le Woods

Age: 24, 6 months

Reg no: 029507

Rank: Cpl, Driver 

Army Service Corps (Horse Transport)

201 Coy?

Enlisted at Chorley on 19 November 1914

Joined the 187 ASC at Aldershot on 24 November 1914

Embarked on SS Chybassie at Southampton

Disembarked at Havre

With the 77 Field Ambulance as of the 25 November 1915

And is serving in France until 15 October 1918

Can't read where he is from 16 October 1918 until 30 October 1918

31 October 1918 until 18 May 1919

At Home from 19 May 1919 until 17 June 1919

Demobilized  as of 17 June 1919

Lived at Shaw Hill Farm, Whittle le Woods in 1914

Grocer by Trade

Parents are Thomas Kellett and Mary Alice Salisbury

Married Ida Marsden in Doncaster

Lived at 1 West View Terrace in 1939 , a taxi proprietor 

He died in 1955

142

Thomas Kenyon

Born 1876

Age: 39, 6 months

Reg no: 33186

21 Lancashire Fusiliers

Enlisted on 9 December 1915 at Chorley

Transferred to 2/1 Herefordshire Regiment on 2 May 1916 as 5198 

From May to June 1915, the battalion worked on north London defences in the Billericay area

Discharged on 10 July 1916 suffering from Arthritis and Mentally Deficient

His medical report says he had deformed toes on both feet

He was a Weaver by Trade

Lived at Hill Syde, Mount Pleasant, Whittle le Woods

Mother Sarah Ellen Kenyon

143

Joseph Kerfoot

Born 1882, Whittle le Woods ?

Age:

Rank:

Reg no:

His name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914 - 1915 Roll of Honour

Possibly of Higher Copthurst in 1911

144

Jack Kerfoot- UNDER AGE - 16 years and 10 months 

Age: 19

Enlisted at Preston

Reg no: 55823

RFA

B Battery, RFA, 105 Brigade

Jack Kerfoot enlisted at Preston on 26 November 1914.

Posted to No 2 Depot, RFA

Posted to B Battery, RFA, 105 Brigade on 7 January 1915

He was then "Discharged on 28 July 1915 having made a misstatement as to get on enlistment"

He had done 245 days (8 Months or so)

As of 21 November 2020, I have discovered more about him and this explains why he was discharged!

Taking the above information into account -

Over a year later Jack re-enlists and his record this time says he enlisted on 11 October 1916 aged 18 

He is actually 18 years 9 months 12 days

He joins up as 123774 in the RGA and serves in France from 18 May 1917 to 16 February 1918 as a Gunner  

On 16 February 1918, he is then transferred to the RFC as 127868

Possibly 59 Squadron

Transferred over to the RAF on 1 April 1918 as 127868

From either 1 ASU or 1 ASD (Aeroplane Supply Depot (ASD) to either 39 or 59 Squadron RAF

So I used a handy calculator on the internet and worked out that Jack Kerfoot was only 16 years and 10 months old when he first joined up

Lived at Town Lane, Whittle le Woods as of 1911, and according to his date of birth

Father is Matthais Kerfoot

145

Richard Knight

No trace yet

146

Sydney Knowles

Born c1901 in Whittle le Woods

Possibly joined the Mercantile Marines in 1914?

Received the Mercantile Marines Medal and Ribbon 16 October 1919

British Medal and Ribbon

His family lived at Fern Villa in 1911

Son of William and Clara, and had a sister Audrey

Think he may have lived at Canning Place, Liverpool as of 1919

147

Stanley Knowles

Born 18 June 1900

Age: 18

Rank: Pte up to Acting Sgt

Service no:176790

Joined the RAF from 14 May 1918

Promoted Acting Sgt on 23 November 1918

Discharged from 16 January 1919

Lived at 20 Swansey Fold, Whittle Le Woods

Formerly a Brewers Clerk

Father was Thomas Knowles of 20 Swansey fold

Believe he rejoined or joined the Whittle Harriers on 29 September 1919 

Died 1976

148

William Knowles

Born

Age: 22, 11 months

Rank: Pte

Reg no: 5308

4 Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

As of Enlistment, he was a Chemists Assistant

Enlisted on 10 December 1915 at Chorley

Mobilized on 24 March 1916 and posted the day after to *hard to read) 3/4th TF, possibly Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

Transferred again but I can't make out who he has been posted to

Posted to 4 Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment on 14 April 1917

Posted to No. 1 Cadet wing, RFC on 17 September 1917

Posted to Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, Reserve on 19 October 1917 

Discharged on 1 February 1918 for being physically unfit for war service

Character was good

Mother was Rachel Knowles, Lived at Fern Villa, Whittle le Woods

149

Albert Langton

Born in 1895

Age:  20

Rank: Driver

Reg no:

RFA

Lived at Whittle le Woods in 1911

He was a boxer starting in 1913 whilst in the RFA and when posted to Folkstone up until 8 May 1915 had won 7 fights out of 8. 

Son of Henry, a Canal Boatman, and Ann Langton nee Blundell

Married ‎September 1921 Chorley to Annie Johnson

150

John Langton

Born in 1896, Whittle le Woods

Age: 19 in 1915

Rank:

Reg no:

Also known as John Thomas Blundell Langton

1901 living at Town Lane, Whittle le Woods

Son of Henry, a Canal Boatman, and Ann Langton nee Blundell

1 of 13 children

In 1911 he was a Dodger at the Calico Printworks

Married in March 1915 to Elizabeth Bamford

They had children, Henry born in 1915 and Elizabeth Lilian born in 1919

Lived at 16 Brownedge Lane, Bamber Bridge at the time of his death on 16 April 1960

Brother of the above, Albert Langton

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Henry Leigh

Born in 1893, Wigan

Age:

Rank: Driver

Reg no: 5943

R.H. and R.F.A

In 1911 he is living with his family in Whittle le Woods

He is employed as a Rubber Works (grinder)

He Enlisted about 26 October 1915 at Preston

50 Res Brigade

Went overseas to France on 27 January 1916

Posted to the 38th DAC as of 8 March 1916

Admitted to 131 Field Ambulance and then to possibly 46 CCS(?) as of 10 February 1917

Sent back to England vis HS Cambia (?) 

From 4 May 1917 until 13 June 1917, he is at the RA Command Depot, suffering with Frostbite 

On 13 November 1917 until  25 April 1917, he was at Eggington Hall Hospital with a ? Left foot

Posted and Joined up with 120 Brigade on 28 October 1917, (maybe a mistake on record with this date)

Posted BEF France, as of 11 January 1918 

Joined with 122 Brigade on 21 April 1918

On 12 November 1918 until 28 January 1919, he was at Lukes War Hospital, Halifax for some reason

Was Suffering from Influenza at somepoint

Discharged on 1 March 1919

Next of kin is Agnes Ann Leigh, mother

Swansea Fold, Whittle le Woods

Fought in WW1 and went on to run the Duke of York in the 1940s and 1950s

Married to Mary Hilton in 1920 at St John the Evangelist 

Their children-

Agnes born 1920

Hilda, born in 1922 married Thomas Marston

Robert was born in 1925.

John was born in 1928.

Hilda and Thomas would carry on the tradition of running the Duke of York until the 1980s

152

John Leigh - another interesting profile

Born in 1898

Age: 19, 10 months

Rank: Pte, L/Cpl, L/Bdr

Reg no: 141690

Royal Scots

Royal Garrison Artillery

Possible 141690 RGA

He served in France

John Leigh Enlisted with the Royal Scots on 20 November 1915 at Chorley

On 23 November 1915, he joined up with them at Glencorse

I think he was posted to the 14th Battalion, Royal Scots on 29 November 1915

Whilst at Kirkcaldy, on 20 September 1916 whilst on active service, absent off leave from 19 September 1916 until 9 am 20 September 1916 (9hrs)

Admonished and forfeited 11 days' pay

Then promoted to L/cpl as of 11 October 1916, qualified as a signaller, Instructor 

and posted to the 54 TR Battalion as L/Bdr

Transferred to the "A" Siege Depot, RGA on 29 December 1916

 Served with "A" Siege Depot through to the 112 December 1917 when he was posted to 515, P Battery RGA

Appointed acting Bombardier at Aldershot on 2 March 1918 

Embarked from Dover on 21 October 1918 and Disembarked the same day at Calais, France

Confirmed the rank of Bombardier on the same day and think he gets a 3d pay increase

Still with 515, P Battery RGA as of 7 March 1919

On 3 May 1919, he was granted leave to the UK via Calais, until 16 May 1919

On 17 July 1919, he Embarked from Boulogne for the Dispersal Area.

Both he and Henry (above) are brothers of Frederick Leigh, and Robert Leigh KIA

By 1911 their family of 9 was living in Whittle le Woods.

With 4 of the 7 boys joining up.

The only known surviving girl in the family was Mrs. Agnes Ann Leigh. 

As of joining up, he was Book Keeper, Swansea Lane, Whittle-le-Woods 

Finally found his Service Record as of 25\11\2022 and updated his profile

153

John James Leach

Born 1890, Blackburn

Age:

Rank:

Reg no:

No record found for him yet

His name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914 -1915 Roll of Honour

The only person close is in the 1901 census living at Swansey Fold.

With parents Thomas and Elizabeth.

In 1921 the family is living at Victora Terrace and John James Leach, age 31 and 2 months, he is a Cotton Overlooker is living at home with his parents Thomas, a Cotton Weaver, and Elizabeth.

His siblings, Sarah Alice, Florence, and Margaret Ann were all Cotton Weavers

Apart from Elizabeth, who stayed at home, they all worked at J N Boothmans Cotton Manufacturer, Swansea Mill

154

Christopher Livesey

Born 30 December 1897, Whittle le Woods

Age: 15 in 1915

Rank: L\Cpl

Reg no: 241925

1/5 East Lancashire Regiment

2/5 East Lancashire Regiment

His name is in the War Office Daily list on 2 October 1918 for the East Lancashire Regiment within the Weekly Casualty List (War Office & Air Ministry ) - Tuesday 08 October 1918

Awarded the Military Medal on 13 February 1919

It was with the 1/5th Battalion that he was awarded the Military Medal. It was published in the London Gazette on 11th Feb 1919 and his medal was scheduled numbered 201,777.
Schedule 201,000 – 209,999. Covers the Battle of Amiens 8th Aug - 3rd Sept 1918.

In 1911 he was living at 10 Rock Villa Road, Whittle le Woods

Son of Henry Livesey and Mary Jane ?

1 of 10 children

In 1939, he was still working in the cotton industry and was also an Auxiliary fireman.

Brother of Below

155

Robert Livesey

Born

Age: 20 and 9 months

Reg no: 5181

12th Manchester Regiment

Enlisted at Chorley on 9th September 1914

A weaver by trade

Discharged as not likely to become an efficient soldier on 14th January 1915 after having a medical examination.... He had a deformed right arm.

Father was Henry Livesey

156

Reginald (James) Longton

Born: 1895

Age: 19

Reg no: 23312

Rank: 

Kings Liverpool Regiment

Enlisted at Chorley on 16 November 1914

Lived at Bridge Street, Whittle le Woods

Parents are Lawrence Longton and Ann?

Discharged on 16 April 1915... not likely to become an efficient soldier.

Defective vision

Think it's his brother Norman who won the M.M

157

Walter Lowe- Updated as of 25\1\2021

Born c1895, Clayton le Woods

Age: 20

Rank: Pte

Reg No: 71201

2\1 Berkshire Yeomanry Regt

Other numbers 14648, 14519, 5602

His name is on the Whittle le Woods 1914 - 1915 Roll of Honour 

No Service Record found yet and I can't find any information on his other numbers 

The 2/1st Berkshire Yeomanry was first raised on 23 September 1914.

As well as acting in a Home Defence role they provided a source of trained soldiers for the 1/1st Berkshire Yeomanry.

Originally they were stationed at Bearwood, Wokingham

In June 1915 they were at Kings Lynn

Coastal attacks by the German Zeppelin and warships were common

They also manned Aircraft Observations Posts

In the spring of 1916, the 2\1 Berkshire Yeomanry Regt swapped their horses and began using bicycles

They often provided drafts for the reinforcement of regiments in France 

One of several cyclist units at that time on guard duties in Ireland, and in March 1919 orders were received for all cyclist units to be disembodied. 2/1st Berkshire Yeomanry was finally disbanded in Dublin on the 21 June 1919.

Says he is living at The Lodge, Clayton le Woods on the Pension Ledger

Discharged on 21 Mar 1919

158