Great War biographies A-C

Great War participants from Southrepps

Author: Chris Shaw

Aldrich, Herbert Shaw                                                                            

Herbert Shaw Aldrich was born in Thorpe Market on 23^rd January 1899¹,² the son of Beatrice Eliza Shaw and Herbert Aldrich. Herbert was received² into St James’ Church, Southrepps on 25^th June 1900 having previously been privately baptised at Thorpe Market Church. He also used the name Herbert Aldrich Shaw.

In 1901 the Aldrich family were living in Long Lane, Southrepps where Herbert senior was a teamster on a farm. The 1911 census finds the family living in Lower Street and Herbert junior was at school. He now has a brother Edward (2).

On 18^th March 1917 Herbert enlisted in Cromer with 7^th Battalion King’s Royal Rifle Corps³ as Rifleman A/205265. He was posted to the British Expeditionary Force on 3^rd February 1918 and reported missing on 21^st March. Herbert was wounded in the back by shrapnel and captured by the Germans near St Quentin during their Spring offensive. He was held at Cassel Prisoner of War camp and released on 12^th December 1918. The camp held around 20,000 prisoners from France, the Commonwealth and Russia.

Herbert was demobilised on 24^th October 1919 and discharged from the army on 31^st March 1920.

The 1939 Register¹ shows Herbert living with his widowed mother in Pit Street where he was a farm labourer.

Herbert Shaw Aldrich died in December 1980 aged 81 and was buried⁴ at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 31^st December 1980.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁵.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJC

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.393

³ Southrepps Absent Voters List 1918

⁴ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1933-1992 – Entry no.470 using surname ‘Shaw’

⁵ Army Medal Index Card

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Baker, Bertie                                                                                              

Bertie Baker was born in Southrepps on 1^st May 1898¹,² the son of William Baker and Alice Maud Baker (née Risebrow). Bertie was baptised¹ on 25^th June 1898 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

In 1901³ the Baker family were living in Barn Row, Southrepps next to the Vernon Arms where William was a teamster on a farm. Bertie had a sister Annie (5). The 1911 census⁴ finds the family still in Upper Street and Bertie was at school.

Bertie’s war service has been difficult to ascertain but we know he served with 307^th Battery of the Royal Field Artillery⁵ as Driver 208639.

In 1925 Bertie married Clara Bessie Stone in Wangford, Suffolk and the 1939 Register² finds them living at ‘Danish House’ in Overstrand where Bertie was the gardener and caretaker.

Bertie Baker died on 10^th September 1976 aged 78 and was buried at St Martin’s Church, Overstrand.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁶.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.375

² 1939 Register – TRJA

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 87 Page 12

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/37

⁵ Southrepps Absent Voters List 1918

⁶ Army Medal Index Card

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Baker, Charles Henry                                                                               

Charles Henry Baker was born in Southrepps on 10^th October 1876¹, the son of Robert Baker and Hannah Baker (née Pardon). He was baptised² at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 20^th October 1876.

The 1881 census³ shows the Baker family living at ‘The Dams’, Southrepps where Robert was an agricultural labourer. Charles’ siblings were Robert junior (15), James (13), Mary (9) and Richard (1 month). In 1891⁴ the family were now living at Hungry Hill Farm, Northrepps. Robert senior was a horse teamman. Charles’ siblings still at home were Robert junior (25) and James (23).

The 1901 census⁵ shows the family still living at Hungry Hill. Charles was now a bricklayer’s labourer.

Charles married⁶ Clara Sophia Wiggett, daughter of George Wiggett, on 12^th Apr 1905 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

In 1911⁷ Charles and Clara were living in Station Road, Thorpe Market and Charles was a domestic gardener.

On 27^th November 1915 Charles enlisted⁸ with the 11^th Battalion Norfolk Regiment in Cromer as Private 6777 and was placed on reserve until being mobilised on 20^th June 1916 with 5^th Battalion Norfolk Regiment as Private 290391. Subsequently he transferred to 667th Agricultural Company of the Labour Corps as Private 429111 and demobilised on 28^th March 1919.

The 1939 register¹ shows Charles and Clara living at Hanworth Lodge near Gunton Hall. Charles was described as a general labourer.

Charles Henry Baker died in 1965 aged 88.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – not known.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJG

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1845-1879 – Entry no.728

³ 1881 Census – RG11/1923 Folio 58 Page 19

⁴ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 59 Page 7

⁵ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 20 Page 23

⁶ Southrepps St James Marriage Register 1837-1937 – Entry no.353

⁷ 1911 Census – RG14/11171/53

⁸ Army Enlistment records

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Baker, Edward George  

Edward George Baker was born in Southrepps on 12^th May 1897¹,² the son of Henry Matthew Baker and Matilda Baker (née Copeman). Edward was baptised² on 27^th June 1897 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

In 1901³ the Baker family was living at Barn Row, Upper Street where Henry was an agricultural labourer. Edward’s siblings were Ellen (12) and Harry (9). The 1911 census⁴ shows the family still in Southrepps, Edward was a scholar.

Edward’s war records have been difficult to locate but we know he enlisted⁵ on 16^th October 1916 and served in the 339^th Home Service Works Company of the Labour Corps⁶ as Private 595969. He was discharged from the army on 1^st November 1919 and awarded a Silver War Badge⁷.

On 24^th March 1923 Edward married⁸ Annie Mabel Lloyd, daughter of George Lloyd, at St James’ Church, Southrepps and in the 1939 register⁹ they were living in Barn Row, Southrepps next door to Edward’s parents. Edward was described as a cabinet maker (incapacitated).

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal, Victory Medal & Silver War Badge¹¹.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJC

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.359

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 87 Page 12

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/44

⁵ Medal Index card

⁶ Southrepps Absent Voters List 1918

⁷ SWB no.B332192

⁸ Southrepps St James Marriage Register 1837-1937 – Entry no.432

⁹ 1939 Register – TRJC

¹⁰ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1933-1992 – Entry no.474

¹¹ Army Medal Index Card & SWB Roll

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Baker, Ephraim

Ephraim Baker was born in Southrepps on 28^th October 1889¹, the son of George Baker and Emily Sarah Baker (née Rogers). He was baptised² at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 26^th January 1890.

The 1891 census³ shows the Baker family living in Southrepps not far from the New Inn with Ephraim being the youngest child, his siblings were Rebecca (7), Hannah (6) and Ernest (4). His father George was listed as an Agricultural Labourer.

He enlisted on 13^th November 1914⁶ in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, Collingwood Battalion, D Company, 1^st Platoon as an Able Seaman Z/1788. Ephraim died on 4^th June 1915⁷ aged 25 in the Gallipolli campaign. He was recorded as missing, presumed dead, as his body was not recovered.

The Keep Military Museum⁸ has the following report on the Royal Naval Division and their involvement at Gallipoli –

The new Battalion started training at Crystal Palace before moving to Blandford Camp in Dorset. Their time at Blandford was spent on learning trench construction and trench warfare. It turned out to be a very wet and muddy experience.  It was at Blandford that the training was completed. Collingwood was in the 2^nd Brigade with Hood, Howe, and Anson. Four of the Battalions left for Egypt in early March, Collingwood and two other Battalions left Blandford at 5am on May 10^th 1915 for Plymouth and from there embarkation on HM Transport Ivernia. There was a complement of 1,700 men on board.

The ship finally arrived at Mudros around the 23^rd May having stopped at Gibraltar and Malta on the way. During the next week the men resumed training, particularly getting fit and acclimatizing which included route marches and field work.

On the Wednesday they were told they had four days stand easy. Shelling of the camps was continuous, but on their return to camp the guns were relatively quiet. On the Thursday orders were received that the stand easy was to be curtailed and that the Battalion were to go up to the trenches that night to take part in an attack the following day.

At 1.30am the Battalion started to make their way to the trenches, reaching there without casualties.

Gallipoli 4^th June 1915

The 2^nd brigade of the Royal Naval Division were on the left of the French with Anson, Hood and Howe. The Collingwoods were in support. The attack was to be a straight forward trench assault, any hold up would open the unit next in line to catastrophic fire from uncaptured Turkish positions.

The day was hot and for hours the troops had to wait in stinking trenches amongst the dead from earlier battles and beset by millions of flies.

Howe, Hood and Anson went over the top at 12noon into a hail of fire, but despite heavy losses they managed to capture the Turkish front line.

The Collingwood Battalion were in support and “A” Company Collingwood went over at 12.15 in support of Anson. They suffered heavy losses covering the 400 yds to the Turkish trenches. They tried to reach a second trench, but were force to retire. “B” Company Collingwood went up to the communication trench and into the Hood firing line. At 12.10 they went over the top. Up to 400 yards of No Man’s Land lay ahead. They reached the first trench with heavy losses, but by then they did not know of “A” Company’s’ retirement. Reinforcements were ordered, but before they could get there, the Turks had regained the trench on the right and “B” Company were also ordered to retire.

“D” Company were ordered into the firing line to support Howe and as soon as they reached there they went over. They reached a dummy trench after 100yds but with no support when they attempted to advance they too retired, again with losses.

Three companies were ordered to dig a communication trench between theirs and the enemies should the attack be successful. They went over at 12.30 and immediately started digging, seeing the front line retiring they hung on and managed to advance to a little cover. But they too soon had to retire.

This ended the day for the Collingwood Battalion. A series of advancement then retirement resulted in heavy losses for the Battalion, the most painful was the loss of all but two of the officers.

The next day June 5^th, the remaining Collingwood were relieved that night from the support trench and returned to the dug-out at Backhouse Post. Here on the next morning, the Turks started shelling, although the Battalion took cover in the dugout it did not stop another 15-20 casualties being added to the already high toll.

That afternoon the Battalion returned to its own camp and the next two days were spent in squaring everything up. On June 8^th the Collingwood and Benbow Battalions was disbanded with the survivors being attached to other Battalions as reinforcements.

The Royal Naval Division stayed on Gallipoli for the rest of the campaign, taking part in a battle on July 12^th in reserve for the 52^nd Division. By the 25^th July conditions had become desperate with sickness rife among the men.  Two decisions were made, firstly all stokers [300] were to return to sea and the rest were reduced to two Brigades. Drake, Nelson, Hawke and Hood in the first and ½ Royal Marine, Anson and Howe in second. These men served in the front line until the evacuation in January 1916.

Ephraim Baker is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Turkey⁹ (Panel 8 to 16). He is also remembered on the Southrepps War Memorial at St James’ Church.

Ephraim’s brother Ernest George served in the Army and his brother John William in the Royal Flying Corps.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded⁷ – 1914/15 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal.

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¹ Royal Navy records.

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.234.

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 82 Page 19.

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 86 Page 9.

⁵ 1911 Census – RG14/31044/188.

⁶ Royal Navy Medal Card ADM 339/2/163.

⁷ Royal Navy records.

⁸ Based in Dorchester.

9 CWGC records.

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Baker, Ernest George  

Ernest George Baker was born in Southrepps in 1887, the son of George Baker and Emily Sarah Baker (née Rogers). He was baptised¹ at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 12^th June 1887.

The 1891 census² shows the Baker family living in Southrepps not far from the New Inn with Ernest being the eldest son, his siblings were Rebecca (7), Hannah (6) and Ephraim (1). George was listed as an Agricultural Labourer.

In 1901³ the family were living in the same area but George was now a widower with six children, George’s wife Emily having died in June 1900. Ernest was a butcher’s boy and his siblings were Rebecca (17), Hannah (16), Ephraim (11), William (5) and George (1). The 1911 census⁴ shows Ernest boarding with the Bird family where he was a butcher’s assistant.

Ernest served in France to 14^th September 1916 and then was treated at Mile End Military Hospital, London from 14^th September to 2^nd October 1916 for a superficial head wound. He had a further visit to hospital in Shoreham by Sea from 1^st December 1916 to 16^th March 1917 for treatment to the head wound.

He was promoted to Lance Corporal (unpaid) on 14^th January 1918 (but later reverted to Private) and travelled back to France on 4^th April 1918 to join the 7^th Battalion⁵ before receiving a gunshot wound to his left arm in September 1918. He finally left France on 24^th June 1919.

Ernest had 16 teeth removed (including all molars except one) in December 1918 due to decay. This was quite a common occurrence for soldiers of the Great War.

Ernest was demobilised on 22^nd July 1919 whilst serving with 7^th Battalion Northamptonshire Regiment.

Ernest would have signed up at the same time as William Edward Storey (they have consecutive numbers in the Norfolk Yeomanry).

No further information has been found regarding Ernest’s life after the War.

Ernest’s brother Ephraim served in the Navy, his brother John William served in the Royal Flying Corps and youngest brother George also in the Northamptonshire Regiment.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁶.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.172

² 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 82 Page 19

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 86 Page 9

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/60

⁵ Southrepps Absent Voters List 1918

⁶ Army Medal Index Card & Medal Roll

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Baker, Ernest William 

Ernest William Baker was born on 14^th May 1895[¹ in Southrepps, the son of Arthur Baker and Keyoma Baker (née Gotts). Ernest was baptised¹ on 30^th June 1895 at St James Church, Southrepps.

In 1901² Ernest was living at his grandfather’s house in Upper Street, Southrepps with his parents and siblings Robert (8), Ellen (3), Maud (2) and Hilda (10 months). The 1911 census³ shows the family still living at his grandfather’s and his siblings still at home were Ellen (14), Hilda (11), Keyoma (10), Gladys (7), Mabel (5), Phyllis (3) and Basil (1). Ernest was a farm labourer.

Ernest enlisted with the 5^th Reserve Battalion Coldstream Guards on 11^th March 1915 in Norwich as Private 15721. His occupation at that time was cycle repairer. Ernest was discharged from the Army on 17^th September 1915 as ‘not likely to become an efficient soldier’ on medical grounds. During his short army service Ernest suffered from influenza and rheumatic fever whilst based in Caterham.

No further information on Ernest is known at present.

Ernest’s brother Robert Charles Gotts also served in the army.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – Nil.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.325

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 85 Page 8

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/72

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Baker, George  

George Baker was born in Southrepps on 4^th August 1899¹, the son of George Baker and Emily Sarah Baker (née Rogers). He was baptised at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 29^th October 1899¹.

In 1901² the family were living near the New Inn and George (senior) was a widower with six children, George’s wife Emily having died in June 1900. George’s siblings were Rebecca (17), Hannah (16), Ernest (13), Ephraim (11) & William (5). The 1911³ census finds George, a school boy, living with his father and sister Hannah in the High Street.

George enlisted with the Northamptonshire Regiment as Private 40984 on 3^rd September 1918 but was discharged from the Army on 24^th December 1918 due to illness.

No further information is known about George at present.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal, Victory Medal & Silver War Badge⁴.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.398

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 86 Page 9

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/63

⁴ Army Medal Index Card & SWB Roll

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Baker, Henry Oliver  

Henry (Harry) Oliver Baker was born in Southrepps on 3^rd January 1897¹, the illegitimate son of Rose Anna Baker. Henry was baptised¹ at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 25^th April 1897.

In 1898 Rose Anna married George Hewitt and the 1901 census² shows them living in Lower Street where George was a bricklayer’s labourer. Henry now had a half-brother, Reginald Hedley Hewitt (1).

Henry’s mother Rose Anna died in 1903 and we have no knowledge of his whereabouts until his apparent army service³ in the Royal Fusiliers as Private 53972 and the Labour Corps as Temporary Corporal 59473.

On 12^th August 1929⁴  Henry married Hilda Gertrude Timbers at the Parish Church in North Walsham. The marriage certificate shows his father to be George Hewitt. In 1939 the Register⁵ shows they were living at 3 Church Street, Southrepps where Henry was a general labourer.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.355

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 91 Page 20. Henry was recorded as Henry O B Hewitt

³ Medal Index card

⁴ North Walsham Marriage Register – Entry no.42

⁵ 1939 Register – TRJC

⁶ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1933-1992 – Entry no.329

⁷ Army Medal Card & Medal Roll

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Baker, John William  

John William Baker was born in Southrepps on 30^th December 1895¹, the son of George Baker and Emily Sarah Baker (née Rogers). John was baptised¹ on 23^rd February 1896 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

In 1901² the family were living in Southrepps near the New Inn and George was now a widower with six children, George’s wife Emily having died in June 1900. John William’s siblings were Rebecca (17), Hannah (16), Ernest (13), Ephraim (11) and George (1).

No further information has been found regarding John William’s life after the War.

John William was the brother of Ephraim Baker, Ernest George Baker and George Baker.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – not known.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.335

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 86 Page 9

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11164/74

⁴ RFC records

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Bane, Ernest  

Ernest Bane enlisted with the Norfolk Regiment on 7^th November 1914 as Private 16234 which means he signed on at the same time as many other village lads.

At some stage he transferred to the Machine Gun Corps⁵ as Private 3532 and was demobilised from the Army on 21^st February 1919.

Back in civilian life Ernest married Martha Whitwood on 28^th January 1922 in Greenwich.

The 1939 Register¹ has them living at 142 Westcombe Hill, Greenwich where Ernest was described as a preparer of fuel samples.

Ernest Bane died in Bromley, Kent in July 1968 aged 76.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁶.

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¹ 1939 Register – AHAV

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.300

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 93 Page 24

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/174

⁵ Southrepps Absent Voters List 1918

⁶ Army Medal Index Card & Medal Roll

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Bane, Ernest William  

Ernest William Bane was born on 30^th May 1896¹ in Southrepps, the son of George Bane and Nancy Bane (née Ward). Ernest was baptised² in Thorpe Market on 11^th July 1897.

In 1901³ the Bane family were living in Northrepps where George was a yardman on a farm. Ernest’s siblings were Ethel (7) and Gilbert (6 months). The 1911 census⁴ shows the family living in Thorpe Road, Southrepps. Ernest was a farm labourer.

Ernest enlisted with 7^th Battalion Norfolk Regiment⁵ on 7^th November 1914 as Private 43067 and arrived in France on 26^th July 1916.

Ernest spent a great deal of time in the sickbay –

•  from 5^th November to 18^th November 1916 with P.U.O. (Pyrexia of Unknown Origin) aka Trench Fever

• from 27^th January 1917 to 20^th February 1917 with P.U.O. in France

• from 6^th June to 17^th June 1917 in France, from 18^th June to 23^rd August 1917 with P.U.O. in 1^st Eastern General Hospital, Cambridge

• Admitted to No.2 Canadian General Hospital on 15^th November to 20^th November 1917 with Myalgia (muscle pain); transferred to No.3 Convalescent Depot until 4^th December 1917

• Also in a hospital in France after being gassed from 9^th August to 15^th August 1918 followed by the Kitchener Hospital, Brighton from 17^th August to 8^th October 1918. He didn’t return to France after this treatment.

Ernest served with 1^st, 7^th and 8^th Battalions during his time in France and was discharged from the Army on 25^th January 1919.

Later in 1919 Ernest married Hilda May Palmer and in the 1939 Register¹ they were living at 23 Millfield Road, North Walsham with their son Eric Ernest. Ernest was a laundry van driver.

Ernest William Bane died in 1954 aged 58.

Ernest’s brother Thomas Gilbert also enlisted.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal, Victory Medal & Silver War Badge⁶.

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¹ 1939 Register – TQHC

² Thorpe Market baptism register – entry no.606

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 23 Page 30 & Folio 24 Page 31

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/108

⁵ Army Enlistment records

⁶ Army Medal Index Card & Medal Roll

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Bane, George Edward A  

By the time the 1901 census² comes along George and his brother James were inmates at West Beckham Workhouse along with their grandmother and uncle George.

On 2^nd May 1907³ George enlisted with 3^rd Battalion Norfolk Regiment in Norwich as Private 5909. His address at that time was Sandy Lane, Upper Street and he was employed as a farm labourer by Mr L Reynolds of Northrepps.

The 1911 census⁴ shows George serving in 2^nd Battalion Norfolk Regiment and stationed in Belgaum, India. It is not known if he had continuous service in the Army through to 1914 but it is likely to have been the case.

His Great War service took him to Mesopotamia (now Iraq) as Lance Corporal 7494. The 2^nd Battalion arrived in Mesopotamia in November 1914 and shortly after arrival were involved in an attack on the enemy at Kurna before spending Christmas on the banks of the Tigris. They then attacked Shaiba in a bloodthirsty battle and drove the Turks back.

During 1915 a number of minor battles took place but the battalion were suffering badly from heatstroke, dysentery and beri beri. In October 1915 they were in action at Ctesiphon and started the battle with 500 men, at the end of which there were only 7 officers and 250 men standing.

The survivors marched to Kut-al-Amara and were ordered to hold the town and await reinforcements. They spent Christmas 1915 in appalling conditions with few rations and were reduced to eating horse and mule meat. No reinforcements arrived and on 29^th April 1916 they had to surrender. The remaining men were taken as Prisoners of War by the Turks and their treatment was not good. George wrote to his brother James from the Prisoner of War camp and reported that he was not well. He asked if James could send some chocolate and toffees by return.

However George Bane died on 5^th September 1916 aged 26 at Yarbaschi Camp, Turkey from dysentery and malaria⁵ and was buried at the camp by his comrades. The translation of the Turkish report says ‘he died peacefully in the presence of the doctors and nurses’.

After the War was over George’s remains were exhumed and he was re-interred at Baghdad (North Gate) Cemetery in Plot 21 Row R Grave 10⁶. He is commemorated on the Sheringham War memorial and is also remembered on the Southrepps War Memorial at St James’ Church.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914/15 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 80 Page 16.

² 1901 Census – RG13/1825 Folio 197 Page 4.

³ Army Enlistment Papers.

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/34997.

⁵ Norfolk Regiment Casualty & Sickness Book – Page 12B – George was buried in Grave no.149 at Yarbachi.

⁶ CWGC records.

⁷ Army Medal Index Card & Medal Roll

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Bane, Herbert William  

Herbert William Bane was born in Southrepps on 15^th August 1882¹, the son of Henry Bane and Georgiana Bane (née Bullimore). He was baptised² at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 1^st October 1882.

In 1891³ the Bane family were living in Church Street, Southrepps and Henry was an agricultural labourer. Herbert’s siblings were Robert (11) and John (6). Herbert’s mother died in 1893 and his father married Sarah Ann Gray in 1895. In 1901⁴ Herbert was working at Pleasaunce Gardens, Overstrand as a gardener; one of his colleagues there was John Herbert Hewitt.

The 1911 census⁵ finds Herbert working as a domestic gardener in Middleton and lodging with the Flood family. Sometime later Herbert moved to London and in 1915 he married⁶ Isabel Lawes on 5^th June in Camberwell Parish Church.

Herbert enlisted with the Royal Engineers on 6^th October 1915 as Sapper 3034 and subsequently as Sapper 546620. He was wounded and awarded a Silver War Badge⁷following his discharge on 14^th August 1918. Herbert and Isabel had two children, Eva Alice born 1916 and Jack born 1921.

Following his return from the war he and Isabel lived in Devonport Mews, Paddington for a number of years before moving to Spring Lane, Marham where in the 1939 register¹ Herbert was described as a gardener (incapacitated).

Herbert died⁸ on the 16^th November 1959 aged 77 at King’s Lynn Hospital.

Herbert’s brothers served in the Great War – John Walter and Robert Henry.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal, Victory Medal & Silver War Badge⁹.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRHV

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.68

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 79 Page 13

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1825 Folio 107 Page 15

⁵ 1911 Census – RG14/11632/2

⁶ Marriage certificate no.444

⁷ SWB no.437054

⁸ National Probate Calendar 1960 – Page 101

⁹ Army Medal Index Card, Medal Roll & SWB Roll

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Bane / Bean / Beane, James Thomas

Information on James Thomas Bane has been difficult to ascertain due to the family surname varying between Bane, Bean and Beane but the following is believed to be the correct person.

James Thomas Bane was born in Edingthorpe in 1890, the son of John Bean and Susanna Bean (née Neave). James was baptised¹ on 7^th September 1891 in All Saints’ Church, Edingthorpe.

The census of 1891² has the Bean family living in Edingthorpe where John Bean was an agricultural labourer. James’s siblings were Laura (9), Anna (8), George (6), Frederick (5), Harriet (4) and John (2).

In 1901³ the family were living in Lodge Cottage, Southrepps and John Bane was a Team man. James’s siblings were George (16), Frederick (15), Edith (9), May (7) and Blanche (5). The 1911 census⁴ records the Beane family still living in Southrepps where John was a Horse man on a farm. John and Susanna have had 15 children of which 8 are still alive. James was working as a farm labourer.

It is not known when James Thomas Bean enlisted in 1^st Battalion Norfolk Regiment as Private 43073 but we know he married Margaret Clark at Christ Church, Bridlington on 18^th July 1916. At the time of his marriage he was a ‘soldier with 2/6^th Cyclists Battalion of the Norfolk Regiment’. Their daughter Margarette was born on 10^th March 1917. 

James’ widow subsequently married Harry Atkins in 1919.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal and Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ Edingthorpe All Saints Baptism Register 1891 – Entry no.404.

² 1891 Census – RG12/1509 Folio 35 Page 10.

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 89 Page 16.

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/9.

⁵ Norfolk Regiment Casualty & Sickness Book – Page 99A.

⁶ CWGC records.

⁷ Army Medal card.

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Bane, John Walter  

John Walter Bane was born in Southrepps in 1885, the son of Henry Bane and Georgiana Bane (née Bullimore). He was baptised¹ at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 29^th March 1885.

In 1891² the Bane family were living in Church Street, Southrepps and Henry was an agricultural labourer. John’s siblings were Robert (11) and Herbert (8). John’s mother died in 1893 and his father married Sarah Ann Gray in 1895. The 1901 census³ has John living in Southrepps with his father and step-mother and working as a bricklayer’s labourer.

In 1911⁴ John was a footman for Francis John Tennant at Lympne Castle, Hythe, Kent. It is believed that he married Mary Ward in 1913 in Merthyr Tydfil.

John enlisted⁵ initially with 4/5^th Royal Highlanders as Corporal 4654, transferred to 1/7^th as Corporal 6872 and finally served with 14^th (Fife & Forfar Yeomanry) Battalion, The Black Watch as Corporal 293009.

On the 30^th December 1917, the troopship HMT Aragon arrived at Alexandria, having sailed from Marseilles on the 17^th December. Christmas having been spent anchored off Malta. She was laden with around 2,700 troops bound for the conflicts in Palestine.

The 9588 tons of ocean liner drifted gently as she waited within sight of land but was torpedoed by the German Submarine and minelayer UC-34.

The destroyer HMS Attack dashed to her rescue as she sunk quickly, as well as every available ship within reach. Many of the men rescued and taken onto HMS Attack had just stripped their oil drenched clothes from their bodies and laid on the deck when she too was torpedoed by the same submarine, almost blowing her in two.

610 of the 2,700 personnel on board HMT Aragon were lost at sea including John Walter Bane aged 32. He is commemorated⁶ on the Chatby Memorial, Alexandria, Egypt.

John’s brothers Robert and Herbert served in the Great War.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.118

² 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 79 Page 13

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 87 Page 11

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/4668/73

⁵ Medal Index Card

⁶ CWGC records

⁷ Army Medal Card & Medal Roll

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Bane, Robert Charles  

Robert Charles Bane was born¹ in Southrepps on 16^th July 1898, the son of William Robert Bane and Judith Augusta Bane (née Dunning). He was baptised¹ at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 30^th October 1898.

The 1901 census² has the Bane family living in Lower Street, Southrepps with William a farm labourer. Robert’s siblings were William Edward (4) and Ivy Maud (1).

In 1911³ the Bane family was living in Gimingham where William was a gamekeeper. The family had now grown to 8 children. Robert’s siblings were now William (14), Ivy (10), Herbert (9), Hilda (7), Alice (6), Esther (4) and Henry (1).

John enlisted⁴ with the Buffs (East Kent) Regiment 8^th Battalion as Private 22409 and transferred to the 7^th and 1^st/5^th Battalions Royal Lancashire Regiment as Private 29123. No further information is known at present.

Robert married Violet Ethel Hammond in 1920 and they had two children Joyce Doris May (b.1921) and Robert William Edward (b.1922).

The 1939 Register⁵ shows the family living in Top Road, Little Witchingham where Robert was a horseman on a farm.

Robert died on 19^th December 1953 in Norwich.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁶.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.378

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 94 Page 26

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11170/61

⁴ Medal Index Card

⁵ 1939 Register – TRVC

⁶ Army Medal Card & Medal Roll

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Bane, Robert Henry  

Robert Henry Bane was born in Southrepps on 22^nd April 1880¹, the son of Henry Bane and Georgiana Bane (née Bullimore). He was baptised² at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 26^th April 1880.

The 1881 census³ shows the Bane family living in Upper Street, Southrepps and Henry was an agricultural labourer. In 1891⁴ the Bane family were living in Church Street, Southrepps and Henry was still an agricultural labourer. Robert’s siblings were Herbert (8) and John (6). Robert’s mother died in 1893 and his father married Sarah Ann Gray in 1895.

On 16^th January 1899⁵ Robert joined the Royal Navy as Stoker 29650, initially he was at HMS Pembroke II before serving on many vessels. In October 1906 he was promoted to Leading Stoker and in January 1911 he was placed on Reserve having completed his 12 years.

In 1909 Robert married Charlotte Beck.

The 1911 census⁶ has Robert and his wife Charlotte living at 41 Southerton Road, Hammersmith where Robert was employed by London County Council as a Stoker on a stationary engine.

Robert and Charlotte had a daughter Lilian Lottie born 1912.

Following the declaration of war Robert was recalled to the Navy and was promoted to Senior Petty Officer before being demobilised on 24^th February 1919.

Robert died⁷ on 31^st January 1934 in London aged 53.

Robert’s brothers served in the Great War – see John Walter and Herbert William.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – not known.

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¹ Royal Navy records

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.14

³ 1881 Census – RG11/1923 Folio 49 Page 1

⁴ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 79 Page 13

⁵ Royal Navy records

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/239/13/191

⁷ National Probate Calendar 1934 – Page 175

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Bane, Thomas Gilbert  

Thomas Gilbert Bane was born 19^th February 1901¹ in Northrepps, the son of George Bane and Nancy Bane (née Ward). He was baptised¹ at St Mary’s Church, Northrepps on 4^th April 1901.

In 1901² the Bane family were living in Northrepps where George was a yardman on a farm. Thomas’s siblings were Ethel (7) and Ernest (5). The 1911 census³ shows the family living in Thorpe Road, Southrepps. Thomas was a school boy.

Thomas enlisted as a boy soldier on 17^th October 1917⁴ in Norwich with the Middlesex Regiment. At the time of his enlistment he was a Grocer’s Assistant and his father gave permission for him to join the Army as a Bugler. He does not appear to have served overseas and was discharged from the Army on 20^th September 1919.

Thomas married Daisy Florence Rowe in Kingston, Surrey in 1920 and in the 1939 Register⁵ they were living at 30 Fitzroy Street, Cambridge. Thomas was the Branch Manager of a Food Distributor and a Special Constable.

Thomas Gilbert Bane died on 5^th September 1963⁶ aged 62 at Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge.

Thomas’ brother Ernest William also enlisted.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – not known.

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¹ Northrepps St Marys Baptism Register 1901 – Entry no.791

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 23 Page 30 & Folio 24 Page 31

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/108

⁴ Army Enlistment records

⁵ 1939 Register – TABO

⁶ National Probate Calendar 1963 – Page 116

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Banyard, Alfred William  

Alfred William Banyard was born 22^nd September 1881¹ in Barford, the son of Alfred Banyard and Ellen Banyard. He was baptised at Barford Church on 15^th January 1882¹.

In 1891 the census² shows the Banyard family living in Cock Street, Feltwell near Thetford where Alfred senior was a Police Constable. Alfred’s siblings were Ada Grace and Alice Helen.

On 22^nd September 1899³, Alfred’s 18^th birthday, he signed on with the Royal Navy for 12 years as an AB. Prior to that he had been in the Navy since 11^th March 1897 as a Boy.

The 1901 census⁴ finds Alfred in Malta serving aboard HMS Illustrious as an Able Seaman.

Alfred joined the RFR 0n 19^th August 1905.

On 12^th April 1909 Alfred married Harriet Georgina Ducker at St Paul’s Church in Clacton.

The 1911 census⁵ finds Alfred, Harriet and their son Harry in East Ruston where Alfred was a Police Constable.

A short while after this the family moved to Southrepps with Alfred as Police Constable and were there at the outbreak of the Great War. He was recalled³ by the Royal Navy on 2^nd August 1914. The family must have stayed in Southrepps during the war as Alfred was listed as an Absent Voter⁶ in 1918.

The 1939 Register⁷ has Alfred and Harriet living at 235 St Osyth Road in Clacton on Sea. Alfred is recorded as an Air Raid Warden and retired Police Constable.

Alfred William Banyard died⁸ on 26^th March 1964 in Holland on Sea, Essex aged 82.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914/15 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal⁹.

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¹ Barford Baptism Records 1882 – entry no.757

² 1891 census – RG12/1576 Folio 81 Pages 3&4

³ Royal Navy records 192877

⁴ 1901 census – RG13/5326 Page 14

⁵ 1911 census – RG14/11146/13

⁶ Southrepps Absent Voter roll 1918

⁷ 1939 Register – DBRU

⁹ Navy Medal Index Card

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Bartram, William James   

William James Bartram (Billy) was born in Southrepps on 24^th April 1899¹, the son of James William Bartram and Laura Bartram (née Hewitt). He was baptised² in St James’ Church, Southrepps on 25^th June 1899.

In 1901³ the Bartram family including William’s brother Cyril (6 months) were living in Upper Street, Southrepps where James was a harness maker. The 1911 census⁴ has the family still in Southrepps and William was a school boy with sisters Nancy (8) and Miriam (5).

William enlisted in Norwich with the Training Reserve Battalion of the Norfolk Regiment as Private 31001 on 24^th May 1917⁵. His address at that time was Glebe Farm, Southrepps and he was 5’ 5” tall.

He was transferred to a number of units before being demobilised from 14^th Battalion Suffolk Regiment as Private 64645 on 9^th March 1919.

The 1939 register¹ shows William as an unmarried Farmer in Church Farm, Southrepps along with his retired mother and younger sisters Nancy and Miriam, both unmarried.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJC

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1899 – Entry no.392

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 84 Page 5

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/84

⁵ Army Enlistment records

⁶ National Probate Calendar 1960 – Page 206

⁷ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1933-1992 – Entry no.264

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Bell, Ernest Albert  

Ernest Albert Bell was born in Southrepps on 18^th February 1887, the son of Thomas Richard Bell and Isabella Alice Bell (née Sewell). Ernest¹ was baptised² at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 25^th September 1887.

In 1891³ the Bell family were living in Bradfield Road where Thomas was a coal carter. Ernest’s siblings were May (13), Alice (9) and Charles (6). The 1901 census⁴ shows the family still living in Bradfield Road, Ernest was a domestic groom.

Before he enlisted Ernest was a groom⁵ for Miss Alice de Rothschild at Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury.

Ernest enlisted with the 3^rd Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers as Private 26021 on 10^th November 1914. He departed Devonport on 14^th September 1916 and arrived in Salonika on 30^th September. During his time in the Balkans he contracted malaria and was transferred to Alexandria, Egypt on 29^th September 1917.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal, Victory Medal & Silver War Badge⁷.

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¹ According to the Baptism Register he was baptised as Ernest Edward

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.182

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 73 Page 1

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 95 Page 28

⁵ Army records

⁶ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1872-1933 – Entry no.756

⁷ Army Medal Index Card, Medal Roll & SWB Roll

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Bell, Stanley  

Stanley Bell was born in Waxham on 12^th July 1885¹,² the son of George Tuck Bell and Annie Marie Bell (née Boast). Stanley was baptised² at St John’s Church, Waxham on 14^th October 1888.

In 1891³ the Bell family were living at Chapel Road, Sea Palling where George Bell was an agricultural labourer. Stanley’s siblings were Reginald (10), Gertrude (7) and Josephine (1 month). The 1901 census⁴ finds the family still in Sea Palling and Stanley’s siblings are Josephine (10), Lilian (6), George (4) and Alexander (6 months).

On 3^rd February 1907 Stanley married⁵ Martha Ann Durrant at St Thomas’ Church in Hackney. Stanley was described as a butcher living at 24 Windus Road, Hackney.

In 1911⁶ Stanley and Martha were living in Southrepps and Stanley was a fish hawker.

Stanley enlisted⁷ with 3^rd Battalion Norfolk Regiment on 11^th December 1915 in Norwich and was noted as being 5’ 5” tall and obese. He was mobilised on 8^th June 1916 and commenced his service with the Royal Scottish Fusiliers as Private 37709 before being transferred to the 9^th Company Labour Corps as Private 4858. Stanley was demobilised from the Army on 1^st September 1919.

In 1939 the Register¹ has Stanley and Martha and some of their children living at Buck Bridge, Colby and Stanley was still a fish hawker.

Stanley was living at White Horse Common, North Walsham when he died on 20^th June 1965⁸ aged 79.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁹.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJP

² Waxham St Johns Baptism Register – Entry no.135

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1508 Folio 50 Page 8

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1821 Folio 49 Page 7

⁵ Hackney St Thomas Marriage Register 1907 – Entry no.403

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/151

⁷ Army Enlistment records

⁸ National Probate Calendar 1965 – Page 340

⁹ Army Medal Index Card & Medal Roll

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Bird, Harold William

Harold Bird was born in Cromer on 30^th July 1895¹, the son of William Bird and Margaret Ann Bird (née Donovan). He was baptised¹ on 25^th August 1895 in Church of Sts Peter & Paul, Cromer.

In 1901 the census² records the Bird family living at 10 Prince of Wales Road, Cromer where William Bird was a Cab proprietor.

The 1911 census³ finds Harold being described as a Dental Mechanic and boarding at 11 Surrey Street, Cromer with the Proudfoots.

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¹ Cromer Sts Peter & Paul – Baptism Register – Entry no.1478

² 1901 Census – RG13/1826 Folio 77 Page 48

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11164/59

⁴ CWGC records

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Bird, Thomas Edward

Thomas Edward Bird was born in Southrepps on 17 March 1884¹, the son of Thomas Edward Bird and Mary Lydia Bird (née Hewitt).

In 1911⁴ the family was joined by nephews Reginald Harvey & Arthur Bird and boarder Ernest Baker. Both Reginald and Ernest enlisted in the Army with Thomas junior. Thomas, Reginald and Ernest were all butchers.

Thomas enlisted⁵ in the 10^th Battalion Essex Regiment on 10^th December 1915 in Cromer as Lance Corporal 28116. He was discharged from the Army on 13^th May 1919. The reference on his discharge papers to three blue chevrons indicates that he served overseas for 3 years.

After returning to civilian life Thomas married Mabel Ellen Miller in 1927. The 1939 Register¹ shows Thomas and Mabel together with their sons Edward and Frank living at Sycamore House. Thomas’ sister Catherine was also living with them.

Thomas Edward Bird died at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital on 24^th November 1958 aged 74 and was buried⁶ at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 27^th November.

His cousins also enlisted – Harold William Bird and Reginald Harvey.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal, Victory Medal & Silver War Badge⁷.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJC

² 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 80 Pages 15 & 16

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 86 Page 9

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/60

⁵ Army records

⁶ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1933-1992 – Entry no.268

⁷ Army SWB roll B205967 – evidence for other medals not found but would have been issued as Thomas served abroad.

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Bloom, Edward 

Edward Bloom was born on 14^th Jan 1882¹ in Southrepps, the son of James Bloom and Caroline Bloom (née Pye). He was baptised² on 26^th March 1882 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

The 1891 census³ sees the family including Edward’s brothers Thomas (14) and Walter (2) using the surname ‘Mayes’ and living on the Common, Lower Street. Edward was described as a scholar.

In 1901⁴ the Mayes family was living in Lower Street including Edward’s brothers Walter (12) and Thomas and Thomas’s wife Mary.

On 7^th January 1903 Edward married⁵ Daisy Alice Childs, daughter of David Childs, at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

The 1911 census⁶ shows the Bloom family living in Southrepps with children Albert (6), Violet (5), Maud (2) and Enid (1). Edward was a Roadman with Erpingham RDC.

Edward enlisted on 7^th December 1915⁷ in Great Yarmouth with the Army Service Corps as Private 424392. On enlistment he was a Surveyor to East and West Flegg District Council and lived at Rollesby with his wife and 7 children.

He was called up for service on 1^st July 1918 and discharged from the Army on 15^th February 1919.

The 1939 register¹ shows Edward and Daisy living at Homelea, Rollesby with their daughter Ethel. Edward was the Assistant Divisional Surveyor and a Special Constable.

Edward Bloom died in 1977 in Norfolk aged 95.

His brothers Walter David Bloom and Thomas Daniel Mayes Burton-Pye also enlisted.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – not known.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRAR

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.56

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 86 Page 27

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 94 Page 25

⁵ Southrepps St James Marriage Register 1837-1937 – Entry no.348

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/128

⁷ Army Enlistment records

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Bloom, Walter David

Walter David Bloom was born on 11^th June 1888¹ in Southrepps, the son of James Bloom and Caroline Bloom (née Pye). He was baptised² on 26^th August 1888 at St James’ Church, Southrepps with the surname ‘Mayes’.

The 1891 census³ sees the family including Walter’s brothers Thomas (14) and Edward (9) using the surname ‘Mayes’ and living on the Common, Lower Street.

In 1901⁴ the Mayes family was living in Lower Street including Walter’s brothers Edward (19) and Thomas and Thomas’s wife Mary.

Walter enlisted on 29^th July 1902 with 3^rd Battalion Norfolk Regiment in Norwich as Private 4804. His declared age was 15 years 10 months whereas he was in fact only 14 years and 1 month old.

On 12^th September 1904 Walter was transferred in Norwich to the regular forces within the 3^rd Battalion Norfolk Regiment as Private 6977. He was described as being 5’ 7” tall and having grey eyes and brown hair. His apparent age was recorded as 18 whereas he was only 16 years old. Walter was posted to South Africa on 12^th October 1905 and returned to England on 3^rd March 1907.

Walter married⁵ Caroline Daisy Burgess, daughter of Arthur Isaac Burgess, on 4^th April 1910 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

The 1911 census⁶ shows the family reverting to the ‘Bloom’ surname and the household consists of Walter’s parents James and Caroline, Walter and his wife Daisy, boarders Charles (Jockey) & Ellen Hewitt and boarder John Burton-Pye. Walter was a Farm labourer.

He was then based in England, presumably on Reserve, until war was declared and he was mobilised on 5^th August 1914 with 1^st Battalion Norfolk Regiment and posted with the Expeditionary Force to France on 16^th August.

On 16^th October 1914 Walter was posted back to England with a heart condition and was treated at 1st Western General Hospital, Liverpool⁷ on 20^th October. He was discharged from the Army on 31^st Dec 1914. A further medical examination in 1915 confirmed he had valvular heart disease and was not fit to continue his army career. His address at that time was 4 Nelson Street, North Walsham.

Walter and Caroline’s daughter, Hazel Ruby, was born on 6^th October 1911 and other children were Rena born 1916, Nora born 1918 and Clement born 1923.

The 1939 register¹ shows Walter and Caroline living in 11 Tyler Street, Ipswich where Walter was a Timber man on tunnelling and Caroline was working in a hospital. Their son Clement was living with them.

Walter David Bloom died in 1971 in Ipswich aged 83.

Walter’s brothers also enlisted, Edward Bloom and Thomas Daniel Mayes Burton-Pye.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal & Silver War Badge⁸.

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¹ 1939 Register TVBH

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.203

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 86 Page 27

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 94 Page 25

⁵ Southrepps St James Marriage Register 1837-1937 – Entry no.377

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/157

⁷ Norfolk Regiment Casualty & Sickness Book – Page 4A

⁸ Army Medal Index Card, Medal Roll & SWB roll

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Briggs, Herbert Ernest

Herbert Ernest Briggs was born in Southrepps on 8^th December 1898¹,² the son of Ernest Frederick Briggs and Mary Ann Briggs (née Hawes). Herbert was baptised¹ on 29^th January 1899 at St James Church, Southrepps.

In 1901³ the Briggs family were living in Long Lane, Southrepps where Ernest was a teamster on a farm. Herbert’s siblings were Winifred (4) and Walter (11 months). The 1911 census⁴ shows the family now in Lower Street, Herbert’s siblings being Walter (10), Bertie (9) and Violet (6).

Herbert enlisted in the Army reserve on 7^th December 1916⁵ but transferred to the Royal Naval Division on 16^th April 1917 as an Ordinary Seaman R/1141 before being promoted to Able Bodied Seaman on 1^st December 1917. Prior to enlisting Herbert had been an acting fireman on the Great Eastern Railway.

He served in Howe and Anson⁶ Battalions but was wounded in his right foot on 25^th August 1918 and evacuated to St Luke’s War Hospital in Halifax. He was invalided out of the service on 5^th February 1919 with his injuries assessed at 30% disability.

On 23^rd April 1921 Herbert married Elsie Harriet Childs at St Nicholas Church, Swafield⁷ and the 1939 Register[9] shows them living at 87 Cozens Hardy Road, Sprowston where Herbert was a fireman / engine driver for the LNER.

Herbert Ernest Briggs died on 19^th April 1978⁸ aged 79 in Norwich.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.387

² 1939 Register – TRVW

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 82 Page 2

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/142

⁵ Royal Navy records

⁶ Southrepps Absent Voters List 1918

⁷ Swafield St Nicholas Marriage Register – entry no. 122

⁸ National Probate Calendar 1978 – Page 987

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Bullimore, Charles George

Charles George Bullimore was born in Gimingham on 4^th October 1881¹, the son of George Bullimore and Harriet Bullimore (née Brackenbury).

In 1891² the Bullimore family were living in Trimingham Road, Gimingham and George was an agricultural labourer. Charles’ siblings were Laura (11) and Herbert (2). The 1901 census³ has the family still living in Gimingham and Charles has joined his father as an agricultural labourer. Charles’ brother Herbert (12) is still at home.

On 16^th October 1907 Charles married Sarah Maria Wayte in Gimingham church and they had three children, Charles Harold (1908 – 1991), Mabel Edith (1910 – 1990) and Reginald Leonard (1911 – ?). The family were living at Lime Kiln Farm, Southrepps in 1911⁴ where Charles was a stock feeder.

Charles enlisted on 17^th December 1915 in Norwich and was held on Reserve before being posted to the 17^th Battalion Northamptonshire Regiment as Private 39317 on 2^nd June 1917. His address at that time was Lyngate Cottage, Bacton Road, North Walsham.

He was transferred to the 1/1^st Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire Regiment as Private 40858 on 5^th September 1917 and wounded on 26^th September.

Charles was repatriated on 7^th December 1918 and on 11^th December deemed no longer fit for War service. Captivity and neglect had taken its toll and he was suffering from bronchitis as well as being underweight.

The 1939 Register¹ records the Bullimore family living at Brook Cottage, Smallburgh where Charles was a farm labourer.

Charles George Bullimore died in 1963 aged 81.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁶.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRZH

² 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 25 Page 18

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 77 Page 17

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/1

⁵ Army records

⁶ Army Medal Roll

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Bullimore, George

George Bullimore was born in Southrepps on 11^th August 1889¹, the son of James Bullimore and Lucy Golden Bullimore (née Earl).

In 1891² the Bullimore family were living in Lower Street, Southrepps where James was an agricultural labourer. George’s siblings were James (7) and Daisy (6 months). The 1901 census³ finds the family in Gimingham and George’s siblings were now James (17), Daisy (11), Beatrice (9), Ellen (8), Thomas (5) and Harry (2). George was now an agricultural labourer.

By 1911⁴ James Bullimore had died and his widow Lucy was living at 9 Brunswick Terrace, Gimingham with some of her children. George’s siblings still at home were James (28), Daisy (20), Thomas (14) and Harry (12). George was described as a farm labourer.

On 21^st October 1914 George married⁵ Ethel Susannah Spalding at All Saints Church, Gimingham and their daughter Daisy Eleanor was born on 23^rd December 1915.

George enlisted with 36^th Battalion Royal Fusiliers on 25^th November 1915 in Cromer as Private 33316. His address at that time was Mill Street, Gimingham and he was a Council Roadman.

He was mobilised on 31^st May 1916 and deployed in France on 27^th June 1916. George was transferred to 106^th Company Labour Company as Private 63485 on 14^th May 1917. This deployment was short lived as he was transferred to 313^th Road Construction Company of the Royal Engineers on 28^th May 1917 as Pioneer 247060 & WR/22551.

George was demobilised on 11^th March 1919. The 1939 register¹ shows George and his family living at The Bungalow, Gimingham where George was a road lengthman for Norfolk County Council

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁶.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJD

² 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 75 Page 5

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 75 Page 14

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11170/8/16A

⁵ Army records

⁶ Army Medal Index card

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Bunting, John

John Bunting was born in Southrepps on 28^th August 1890¹, the son of William Bunting and Susanna Bunting. He was baptised² at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 30^th November 1890.

The 1891 census³ shows the Bunting family living in Lower Street where William Bunting was an agricultural labourer. John’s siblings were Edward (8), William (4) and Edith (2).

In 1901⁴ the family were living in White Post Road, Hanworth where William Bunting was a teamster on a farm. John’s siblings were now Edward (18), William (14), Edith (12), Alice (8), Beatrice (5), Mary (4) and Maud (2).

By 1911⁵ with the family now in Thurgarton near Alborough the number of siblings still at home had shrunk to Beatrice (15), Mary Ann (14) and Maud May (12). John was a horseman on a farm whilst his father was a farm bailiff.

John enlisted with the 9^th Battalion Norfolk Regiment on 11^th September 1914 as Private 15704 and transferred to 3^rd Battalion on 15^th May 1915.

 John Bunting married Daisy Mary Hewitt⁶ in the Register Office, Norwich on 1^st June 1915. Their daughter Violet Mary⁶ was born on 4^th October 1915.

John was transferred to 2^nd Battalion Suffolk Regiment on 26^th August 1916 as Private 35331, back to 3^rd Battalion Norfolks on 20^th January 1917 and then to 2^nd Battalion Norfolks on 28^th April 1917. He then departed for India, disembarked in Bombay on 29^th July 1917 and then arrived in Belgaum on 31^st July. He remained there until 25^th November 1918.

John was en route for Salonica from 26^th November 1918 to 18^th December 1918 and stayed in Salonica until 31^st December 1918 and then travelled to the Dardanelles until 8^th March 1919.

He departed the Dardanelles on 9^th March 1919 for the UK arriving on 23^rd March. John was demobilised on 22^nd April 1919 after 4 years and 224 days of service.

On 29^th September 1939¹ John and his wife Daisy were living in The Street, Loddon where John was an agricultural labourer.

John died in 1971 aged 81.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ 1939 Register – TROH

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1890 – Entry no.252

³ 1891 census – RG12/1510 Folio 86 Page 28

⁴ 1901 census – RG13/1825 Folio 74 Page 3

⁵ 1911 census – RG14/1166/29A

⁶ Army records

⁷ Army Medal card & Medal roll

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Burrell, Archibald James

Archibald (Archie) James Burrell was born in Southrepps on 8^th November 1879¹, the son of James Swann Burrell and Mary Burrell (née Ling). Archie was baptised¹ on 12^th February 1882 at St Mary’s Church, Worstead.

In 1881² the Burrell family were living at the Crown Inn, Southrepps where James was an Innkeeper and mole catcher. Archie’s siblings were Laura (16), Robert (13), James (7) and George (6). The 1891 census³ shows the family living in Market Street, Worstead where James was now a farmer and carrier. Archie’s siblings still at home were George (16), Thomas (9) and Ernest (7).

In 1901⁴ Archie and his widowed father were living at Church Plain, Worstead where James was a carrier to and from Norwich and Archie was working for him. On 13^th August 1905 Archie married⁵ Mary Jane Bishop at St. John’s Church, Timber Hill, Norwich and the 1911 census⁶ shows them living at the Weavers Arms, Swanton Abbot where Archie was an innkeeper. Archie and Mary had 4 sons, Archibald James (1906-1989), Ernest George (1908-1997), George F (1910-1913) & Frederick Thomas (1912-1973).

Archie enlisted with the Royal Engineers as Private 219696 on 24^th June 1916 and was called up on 2^nd July 1917. His address at that time was Nelson Street, North Walsham.

He initially served in the 499^th Field Company but transferred to 643^rd Field Company on 25^th July 1918. Archie’s service was all in the United Kingdom and he was discharged from the army on 13^th May 1919.

Archie died in Norfolk in June 1930 aged 50 and was buried in North Walsham⁷. Archie’s half-brothers, James and Robert also served in the army.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – Nil

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¹ Worstead St Marys Baptism Register 1879 – Entry no.598

² 1881 Census – RG11/1923 Folio 50 Page 4 & Folio 51 Page 5

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1507 Folio 107 Page 10

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1820 Folio 97 Page 12

⁵ Norwich St Johns Marriage Register – Entry no.330

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11233/17/113

⁷ North Walsham burial records – Page 35 Record 280

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Burrell, James Swann

James Swann Burrell was born in Southrepps in 1874, the son of James Swann Burrell and Hannah Burrell (née Balls). His mother died shortly after his birth.

In 1881¹ the Burrell family were living at the Crown Inn, Southrepps where James senior was an Innkeeper and mole catcher. James junior’s siblings were Laura (16), Robert (13), George (6) and Archie (16 months). The 1891 census² shows James boarding with the Daynes family at 12 Old Palace Road, Norwich where he was a draper’s porter.

James married³ Sarah Agnes Taylor at St Stephen’s Church, Norwich in 1898 and in 1901⁴ they were living at 47 Union Street, Norwich where James was a greengrocer and shopkeeper. Their marriage was certainly tempestuous in its early days, James and Sarah separated a number of times usually after his court appearance for assaulting her. The 1911 census⁵ shows the family living at 2 Butcher’s Court, Theatre Street in Norwich and where James was now a fruit hawker. He had a barrow from which he sold the fruit but was fined on numerous occasions for causing an obstruction in the street. Their children were Agnes Sarah b.1905, Dorothy Lilian b.1908 and William b.1912. Three other children are believed to have died in infancy.

James enlisted on 26^th September 1914 in Norwich with the Army Service Corps as Private 3005. His address at that time was 18 Alma Square, Vauxhall Street. On 18^th October 1914 he was in France with the Expeditionary Force and returned to England on 29^th April 1915. James was discharged from the army on 18^th September 1915 due to being physically unfit for service. He was given a pension.

James Swann Burrell died in 1926 aged 52. James’ brother Robert and half-brother Archie also served in the army.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914 Star, British War medal, Victory medal and Silver War Badge.

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¹ 1881 Census – RG11/1923 Folio 50 Page 4 & Folio 51 Page 5

² 1891 Census – RG12/1532 Folio 7 Page 14

³ Army records

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1845 Folio 79 Page 10

⁵ 1911 Census – RG14/11290/1/5

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Burrell, Robert William

Robert William Burrell was born in Southrepps in 6^th November 1869¹, the son of James Swann Burrell and Hannah Burrell (née Balls). Robert was baptised² on 19^th March 1871 at St James’ Church, Southrepps. His mother died in 1874.

In 1871³ the Burrell family were living in Southrepps where James was a mole destroyer. Robert’s siblings were Laura (6) and Clarabel (3). The 1881 census⁴ shows the Burrell family living at the Crown Inn, Southrepps where James senior was an Innkeeper and mole catcher. Robert’s siblings were Laura (16), James (7), George (6) and Archie (16 months).

Robert married¹ Maria Nobbs on 16^th March 1903 in Banham and had three children, Robert William b.1904, Alice Maud b.1906 and Nellie Lilian b.1910. The electoral roll⁵ shows Robert living at 12 Alma Square, Vauxhall Street in Norwich in 1909. He continued to live around that area and the 1911 census⁶ shows the family living at 2 Stanley Cottages, Crook’s Place. Robert was a labourer.

Robert enlisted on 28^th September 1914 with the 100^th Battery Royal Field Artillery in Norwich as Driver 15424. He had previously served with the RFA for 12 years which time expired in 1902. Robert’s records are difficult to read but we know he served in France and Salonika. Robert also served in the Labour Corps as Private 376924 and was discharged from the army on 23^rd March 1919.

Robert William Burrell died in 1924 aged 55. Robert’s brother James and half-brother Archie also served in the army.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded -1914/15 Star, British War medal & Victory medal.

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¹ Army records

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1845-1879 – Entry no.610

³ 1871 Census – RG10/1797 Folio 156 Page 3

⁴ 1881 Census – RG11/1923 Folio 50 Page 4 & Folio 51 Page 5

⁵ Electoral Roll for Norwich 1909 – 1914

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11323/34/350

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Burton, Edward Thomas

Edward Thomas Burton was born in Southrepps in 1888 the son of William Henry Burton and Mary Anne Burton (née Bullamore). He was baptised¹ at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 31^st March 1889.

In 1891² Edward was living with the Burton family in Lower Street, Southrepps where his father was an Agricultural labourer. Edward’s siblings were Herbert (4) and Maud (6 months). In 1901³ the family was still living in Lower Street and Edward’s father was now a Bricklayer. Edward’s siblings were Herbert (14), Maud (10) and William (8). As a youth Edward got into trouble with the law and was jailed for 7 days in 1905 for assaulting a policeman at Gunton station.

Edward enlisted with 3^rd Battalion Coldstream Guards on 29^th May 1914⁴ as Guardsman 10751. Prior to enlistment Edward was a motor driver. He died of his wounds on 23^rd October 1914 aged 26 and was buried in Ypres Town Cemetery⁵, Ypres, West Flanders, Belgium in Row D1 Grave 19. He is also remembered on the Southrepps War Memorial at St James’ Church.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.218

² 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 84 Page 24

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 91 Page 19

⁴ Register of Soldiers’ Effects – no.137305

⁵ CWGC records

⁶ Army Medal Card & Medal Roll

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Burton, John (aka Burton-Pye)

John Burton-Pye was born in Southrepps in 1870, the son of Henry Burton-Pye and Ellen (Eleanor) Burton-Pye (née Earl). John was baptised¹ on 22^nd May 1870 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

1n 1871² the Burton family were living in Lower Street where Henry was an agricultural labourer. John’s siblings were Lucy Earl (7) and Susanna (3). The 1881 census³ finds the family still in Lower Street, Henry was now a bricklayer and John’s siblings were Susanna (13), Mary Jane (9), Martha Elizabeth (7), Margaret (4) and Henry Thomas (10 months).

In 1891⁴ the family were in still Lower Street, John was now a bricklayer’s labourer and his siblings still at home were Susannah (23), Margaret (14), Harry (11) and Edward (9).

On 25^th April 1891 John married Frances Mabel Dunning, daughter of Edward Dunning, at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

The 1901 census⁵ shows the Burton-Pye family boarding with widow Mary Ann Pull in Lower Street. John was a bricklayer and he and Frances had the following children – Eleanor (9), Jack Gerald (7), Harry (5), Robert (4), Maggie (2) and Edith (4 months). Frances had previously boarded with the Pull’s before she married John.

The family appear to have moved to North Walsham around 1904 and Frances and her children in 1911⁶ were living in Lyngate Road, North Walsham. John was working as a bricklayer for a drainage contractor in East Budleigh, Devon⁷ and lodging with the Casley family in the High Street.

John enlisted in the 208^th Field Company of the Royal Engineers as Sapper 85424 probably about June 1915 in Norwich which was where the RE were recruiting. After training for the second half of 1915 the Company embarked on the SS Archimedes on 9^th January 1916 bound for Le Havre.

They arrived in Le Havre on 10^th January and boarded a train which travelled through Abbeville, Etaples, Boulogne, Calais, St Omer and finally Wardrecques near the Belgian border⁸.

The 208^th Company were involved in the Somme offensive of 1916 and in August of that year were involved around Albert and Mametz Wood. On the afternoon of 9^th August⁸ the dug outs were heavily shelled by High Explosive and Gas shells; there were 36 casualties – John Burton being one of them.

¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1845-1879 – Entry no.592. Surname – Burton-Pye

² 1871 Census – RG10/1797 Folio 155 Page 2 and Folio 156 Page 3. Surname – Burton

³ 1881 Census – RG11/1923 Folio 63 Page 30 and Folio 31 Page 64. Surname – Burton-Pye

⁴ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 74 Page 3. Surname – Burton-Pye

⁵ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 94 Page26. Surname – Burton-Pye

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11162/256. Surname – Burton

⁷ 1911 Census – RG14/12586/144. Surname – Burton

⁸ Company War diary

⁹ CWGC records

¹⁰ Army Medal Card

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Burton, William Henry

William Henry Burton (Rusty) was born in Southrepps on 25^th October 1892¹, the son of William Henry Burton and Mary Anne Burton (née Bullamore).

In 1901² the Burton family were living in Lower Street where William senior was a bricklayer. William’s siblings were Herbert (14), Edward (12) and Maud (10). The 1911 census³ shows the family still in Lower Street but using the surname ‘Burton-Pye’. William junior was now a farm labourer.

On 15^th October 1913 William married⁴ Emily Allen, daughter of Samuel Allen, at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

William’s army service has been difficult to ascertain but we know he served with 1^st Battalion Norfolk Regiment⁵ as Private 3/6566 and also served in France where he finished the war as Acting Corporal. He was discharged from the Army on 25^th March 1919.

The 1939 Register¹ shows William and Emily living in Pit Street, William was a Norfolk CC road ‘lengthman’ and part of ARP Rescue.

William Henry Burton died on 16^th August 1954⁶ aged 61 at the West Norwich Hospital and was buried⁷ at St James’ Church, Southrepps on 19^th August.

William’s brother Edward Thomas Burton also served in the army.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914/15 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal⁸.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJC

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 91 Page 19

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/183

⁴ Southrepps St James Marriage Register 1837-1937 – Entry no.395

⁵ Southrepps Absent Voters List 1918

⁶ National Probate Calendar 1954 – Page 617

⁷ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1933-1992 – Entry no.213

⁸ Army Medal Index Card & Medal Roll

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Burton-Pye, Ernest Robert

Ernest Robert Burton-Pye (Major) was born in Southrepps on 20^th February 1897¹, the son of Francis Burton-Pye and Edith Elizabeth Burton-Pye (née Woodhouse). Ernest was baptised¹ on 25^th April 1897 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

The 1901 census² shows that Ernest’s father Francis Edward was a widower with seven children between the ages of 15 and 1. Ernest’s siblings were Ethel (15), Laura (13), Arthur (11), Samuel (7), Gertrude (5) and Hilda (1). Francis’ wife Edith had died on 12^th January 1901.

In 1911³ Ernest was working as a Farm labourer and was living with his uncle Robert Burton-Pye in Gimingham.

Ernest enlisted with the 9^th Battalion Norfolk Regiment in Norwich on 12^th September 1914⁴ as Private 15019 and landed in France on 4^th October 1915⁵. At enlistment he was described as being 5’ 5” tall with light brown hair. He was killed in France aged 19 on 15^th September 1916⁶ and has no known grave.

The War Diary of the 9^th Battalion for 15^th September reads as follows –

Arriving trenches 1am. Took up line on road running from GINCHY to LEUZE WOOD, this was our front line. The Suffolks were occupying it. Attack launched from this point at 7.20 am. Objective being the Quadrilateral. Advancing NE. 3 tanks cooperated. Held up by wire which was uncut. Casualties 431 OR⁷ and the following officers (list of officers killed, wounded or missing).

16^th September

Relieved early morning by DLI’s⁸. Marched back to trenches S of GUILLEMONT. Collecting men during day and getting them together. Moved further back late in evening to trenches near TRONES WOOD & BERNAFAY WOOD. Remainder of officers and men who were left out at transport joined Battalion.

17^th September

Re-organising Battalion. Supplied small working party to clear battlefield.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914/15 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal¹⁰.

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An emotional letter from Ernest’s sister Laura in October 1917.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.356

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 92 Page 22 & Folio 93 Page 23

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11170/35A

⁴ Norfolk Regiment 9^th Battalion enlistment papers

⁵ Norfolk Regiment Medal Roll

⁶ Norfolk Regiment Casualty & Sickness Book – Page 103A

⁷ Other Ranks

⁸ Durham Light Infantry

⁹ CWGC records

¹⁰ Army Medal Card & Medal Roll

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Burton-Pye, Ethel Elizabeth

Ethel Elizabeth Burton-Pye was born in Southrepps on 30^th June 1897¹, the daughter of James Burton-Pye and Ann Burton-Pye (née Hewitt). Ethel was baptised¹ on 10^th October 1897 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

In 1901² Ethel, her brother Herbert and mother Ann were living in Warren Lane, Lower Street and using the surname ‘Mayes’. The 1911 census³ shows the Burton-Pye family living in Aylsham Road, North Walsham. Ethel and her sister Eva were both school girls.

Ethel married⁵ John Woods on 28^th February 1922 at North Walsham Parish Church and in 1939⁶ they were living at Oak Lodge Bungalow, North Walsham Road, Sprowston.

Ethel Elizabeth Woods died in 1978 aged 81.

Ethel’s brother Herbert George (Mayes) served in 1^st Battalion Essex Regiment and lost his life in 1915.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.363

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 93 Page 24

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11161/11/158

⁴ Red Cross records

⁵ North Walsham Marriage register – Entry no.182

⁶ 1939 Register – TRVU

⁷ Army Medal Roll

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Burton-Pye, Harry Edward

Harry Edward Burton-Pye was born in Southrepps on 4^th October 1890¹, the son of John Francis Burton and Sarah Ann Burton (née Bane). He was baptised² on 30^th November 1890 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

The 1891 census³ shows the Burton-Pye family living on the Common, Lower Street where John was a bricklayer. Harry’s siblings were Elizabeth (19), Caroline (17), Mary A (16), John (14), Richard (8), Susanna (6), Beatrice (4) and Martha (2). He was also known as Henry. In 1901⁴ the family were still living in Lower Street. Harry’s siblings still at home were John (23), Richard (18), Susan R (16), Alice B (14) and Ellen M (7).

The 1911 census⁵ shows Harry as a servant to the Brabiner family at Manor Farm, Helperby in Yorkshire where he was a cowman. He had dropped the ‘Pye’ part of his surname.

Harry appears to have enlisted⁶ with the 2^nd Battalion Norfolk Regiment as Private 8450 in 1913 and was transferred to India on 12^th September 1913 where he stayed until moving to Mesopotamia on 6^th November 1914. He was back in India from 2^nd January 1916 until 30^th March 1916. His military records then become a little vague.

However on 31^st July 1917 Harry married Blanche Ellen Nichols. Harry appears to have joined the RAF on 2^nd July 1918 as Private 300710 and remained there until transferring to RAF Reserve on 4^th June 1919. He then re-applied to continue his service through to about 1927.

The 1939 Register¹ shows Harry and Blanche living at Grove Farm Cottages in Carlton Colville where Harry was once again a cowman.

Harry Edward Burton-Pye died in 1964 aged 74 and was buried at St Peter’s Church, Riddlesworth.

His brothers also served in the army, Richard James and John Thomas.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914/15 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ 1939 Register – TXJN. Harry’s date of birth was recorded as 4^th Oct 1889. However this does not tie in with him being 6 months old in the 1891 Census. Date of birth is therefore assumed to be 4^th Oct 1890

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.251

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 86 Page 27

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 95 Page 27

⁵ 1911 Census – RG14/29025/12/191

⁶ RAF records

⁷ RAF Service Records

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Burton-Pye, John Thomas

John Thomas Burton-Pye was born in Southrepps on 25^th February 1877¹, the son of John Francis Burton and Sarah Ann Burton (née Bane). He was baptised² on 15^th April 1877 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

In 1881³ the Burton-Pye family were living in Lower Street where John senior was a farm labourer. John junior’s siblings were Sarah (9), Caroline (7), Mary (6) and Alice (1 month). The 1891 census⁴ shows the Burton-Pye family living on the Common, Lower Street where John senior was a bricklayer. John junior’s siblings were Elizabeth (19), Caroline (17), Mary A (16), Richard (8), Susanna (6), Beatrice (4), Martha (2) and Henry (6 months).

In 1901⁵ the family were still living in Lower Street. John junior was a labourer in a plantation and his siblings were Richard (18), Susan R (16), Alice B (14), Harry E (10) and Ellen M (7). The 1911 census⁶ shows John a boarder at James Bloom’s house in Southrepps. His sister Ellen and brother in law Charles were also boarders.

John enlisted with the Bedfordshire Regiment on 10^th December 1915 in Norwich as Private 29325. He was mobilised on 24^th March 1916 and posted with the 2^nd Battalion on 27^th August 1916 to France where he remained until 30^th May 1918.

He returned to England suffering from debility and bronchitis. John had been gassed in April 1918 near Ypres and was discharged from the army on 7^th September 1918 with a pension. John spent a month in hospital in France and a further 4 months in Lincoln hospital.

The 1939 Register¹ shows John living at 5 Grove Road, North Walsham where he was described as a general labourer.

John Thomas Burton-Pye of 5 Grove Road, North Walsham died on 20^th July 1959⁷ at Beech House, Gressenhall aged 82.

His brothers Richard James and Harry Edward also served in the army.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁸.

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¹ 1939 Register – TGHA

² Southrepps St James Baptism Register – entry no.738

³ 1881 Census – RG11/1923 Folio 60 Page 23

⁴ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 86 Page 27

⁵ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 95 Page 27

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/157

⁷ National Probate Calendar 1959 – Page 834

⁸ Army Medal Index Card & Medal Roll

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Burton-Pye, Richard James

Richard James Burton-Pye was born in Southrepps in 1883, the son of John Francis Burton and Sarah Ann Burton (née Bane). He was baptised on 29^th April 1883¹ at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

In 1891² the Burton-Pye family were living on the Common, Lower Street where John was a bricklayer. Richard’s siblings were Elizabeth (19), Caroline (17), Mary A (16), John (14), Susanna (6), Beatrice (4), Martha (2) and Henry (6 months). The 1901³ census has the family still living in Lower Street. Richard was a stock feeder on a farm and his siblings were John T (23), Susan R (16), Alice B (14), Harry E (10) and Ellen M (7).

In 1911⁴ Richard was a clerk in the army in India with 2^nd Battalion Norfolk Regiment.

Richard married Alice Stearman in 1916. They had a son, Horace Sidney Burton-Pye born 1913.

Richard James Burton-Pye served with 1^st Battalion Norfolk Regiment as Lance Corporal 26191 and died of his wounds on 11^th May 1917 at 14 Field Ambulance⁵. He was buried at Nine Elms Military Cemetery, Thelus, Pas de Calais, France in Plot 1 Row B Grave 32. He is also commemorated on Thurning War Memorial.

Richard’s brothers Harry Edward and John Thomas and nephews, Charles and Sidney Richard Hewitt, served in the army.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914 Star (with Clasp), British War Medal & Victory Medal⁶.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – entry no.7

² 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 86 Page 27

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 95 Page 27

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/34997

⁵ Norfolk Regiment Casualty & Sickness Book – Page 139B

⁶ Army Medal Card

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Burton-Pye, Samuel Walter

Samuel Walter Burton-Pye was born on 29^th March 1894¹ in Southrepps, the son of Francis Edward Burton-Pye and Edith Elizabeth Burton-Pye (née Woodhouse).

In 1901² Francis and his children were living in Lower Street near the Methodist Chapel, Francis’ wife, Edith, having died in January 1901. The children were Ethel (15), Laura (13), Arthur (11), Samuel (7), Gertrude (5), Ernest (4) and Hilda (1). Francis was a bricklayer.

The 1911 census³ finds the family still in Southrepps where they are using the surname Burton. The household consists of Frank (head) and his offspring Arthur (21), Samuel (16), Gertrude (15) and Hilda (11). Frank was still a bricklayer whilst Samuel was a Farm labourer.

13^th October 1915

My Dearist Sis & Charlie⁴,

Just a few more lines to you trusting they will find you quite well as it leaves me the same at present. Well now it does seem rather a strange thing, not having a letter from home, but we don’t know where we are going yet, so we cannot give our address, but shall have to have a long letter when you can write.

We have now been laying in a harbour, since Sunday morning, & this is now Wednesday.  We have not had an order where to go & yet don’t know when we shall, but I shan’t be sorry when we do.

We are still having some lovely weather out here & hope you are about S’Repps. Well you can let me know how things are looking when you write, and send some papers. Well I daresay you looked when you got that letter which I sent about a week ago, till you read it & then you knew the reason why I did not write.

There is about (censored) soldiers on this Ship. You will soon be thinking about having some cold weather about there now I suppose.

Well now I shall have to bring these few lines to a close, but you will get a long letter one of these fine days.

Will close now with from

Your loving brother S.

Kisses for the Children (drawn in X’s)

Samuel had left England on 29^th September 1915 and landed in Greece on 15^th October 1915.

17^th October 1915

Dear Sis & Char,

Just a few lines to you trusting they will find you quite well as it leaves me at present. Now I have sent two letters to you, have you received them alright? Well Dear you will see (censored)⁵, but still quite well and happy. Well we landed here Friday 15^th Oct.

I think I shall like being here as it is a chance after being at England all our lifetime. There are plenty of mountains about here, and the men are as strong as lions, some of the women work too, by ‘gum’ you ought to see how they dress about here, I tell you when I come home.

Now about the poor animals, them (things) poor have to work shameful, even the poor old dickys, they have to work as well, we have seen them have three bags of cut straw tied each side of them, and some of them have a blooming great bundle of wood tied each side of them, that is absolutely awful, well if people made the poor thing to carry all that weight about there where you are they would give them twenty years in prison I’m sure.

There are (censored)⁶. It has been very wet about here since we have been here, so you can bet there is plenty of plush. We had a good time on the water, and I enjoyed it too. There are some funny houses about here they have not got any chimneys to them, they are not all alike.

Well we don’t know anything about the other boys, is Major⁷ gone to France yet, or any of the other boys. Let me know when you write, and send me a paper, as we have not seen one yet. Well Dear Sis we cannot write a nice letter as you know they won’t let us mention anything do I could fill fifty papers, so will close now with best of

Love to all from your Brother S

XXX for the children

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJC

² 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 92 Page 22 & Folio 93 Page 23

³ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/178

⁴ ‘Sis’ is Sam’s sister Laura and Charlie is her husband Charles Neave

⁵ Censored words are ‘we are not to India, and not for the Dardanelles …. Here in Greece’

⁶ Censored words are ‘thousands of French soldiers and others, also thousands of others, some of allsorts’

⁷ ‘Major’ is Sam’s younger brother Ernest Robert

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7^th November 1915

Dear Sis & Charlie,

Once more I take the pleasure of writing you a few more lines & hope they will find you quite well as it leaves me the same at present. We have had another move, we moved last Friday 29^th Oct, we have seen a little out here since we have been here, there have been a few killed, we have to keep down here and show as less movement as we can, these are some awful mountains to climb about here, it takes about two hours to get to the top of them, Taffy⁸ was left behind in the hospital, but he is better there than he is here. You can tell his mother I am still alright and also Mother⁹.

I cannot write to all as we cannot get any writing paper out here and yet any cigarettes, but you don’t want to trouble about sending any do they take so long to come and perhaps we never get them at all.

Now I must close, remember me to all, so good bye with love from your brother Sam.

The letter is countersigned by Lieut. W Gilliland – 2^nd Norfolk Regiment.

1^st December 1915

My Dearest Sister & C,

I now thought I would drop you another line, just to let you know, that I have received a letter from you. I got it Nov 23^rd so it was twenty days coming but I don’t think you will get mine quite so soon as that.

I have sent you about five of six I don’t suppose you got them all and one card, well dear sister I signed all my papers alright but I don’t know why they sent them papers to Father, but it don’t matter, about them, my will is made to you so if anything do happen to me you will get everything that I have to come to me as they won’t go against the will.

I don’t think I want to write to them myself I will wait till I get another letter from you first perhaps you will have had a letter from them by the time you get this, let me know when you write. Well now you say the boys are gone to France I can tell you they are much better off there than we are here, when they are relieved from the trenches, they do have some good dugouts to go into, we have to lay on the mountains (censored)¹⁰ , we have not drawn any money for five weeks, there isn’t a shop about here so it is no good to us, they can get a piece sometimes at France, Cyril and Guppy¹¹ are very lucky (censored)¹², I don’t mind what I have to put up with if I keep well (censored)¹³ here, I shall only be too pleased when the war is over, so we can get to old England, it don’t look like finishing yet we do see a paper now and again.

Now dear Sis I had a nice letter from Charlie Clarke, he said he is going to send me some cigarettes next time he write. We had some parcels sent to us from Lady Hamilton¹⁴ the other day I got a good thick pair of socks, and a cigarette lighter. I suppose you know where we are by looking at the papers, don’t you, I expect you will soon be thinking about Christmas now as it isn’t above another month. I don’t look like being at home this year but never mind there are better days coming, my heart is not broke and yet never will. How do Bob¹⁵ like being at France, I bet he don’t think much of it as he never did like it. Is Gerty still alright? Now dear I hope you had a pleasant time at the wedding, remember me to them, I don’t know who Sunlight is going to marry, it isn’t Nelly Dix is it? Now you say Nelly’s Jack is at London, I am sorry to hear he is not well but hope he will soon get better, tell them write to me, I will write to them sometime this week.

I suppose Madam will want to go and see him, tell her she’ll have to get married next. Now I hope Ethel¹⁶ will be alright by the time you get this letter, I cannot write to her as I have no writing paper to spare but let her read yours. We may get some issued soon, hope you will send a paper when you can, I will make the postage right with you when I come home as shall have plenty to take. I am glad to hear Tim and Edith¹⁷ are well, hope they will get on better down there and be comfortable, tell them I’m alright. Sorry to hear you have lost your cockerel but hope you will enjoy your Christmas. Tell Willie¹⁸ I like his photo, will see him one day, hope it is soon, what do Mrs Hunt think of that, is Mrs Rayner alright, tell her I am.

Now we had a good cardigan issued the other day and I have felt the good of it too, I think there are some pants here for us today, I hope so as my knees are perish now, no linings in our trousers so you can guess what it is like, it started to snow this morning, we have had some sharp frosts, the water in our bottles get frozen.

Now I think this is all, trusting this letter to find you quite well as it leaves me the same at present and wishing you all Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year, so goodbye all till we meet again, Brother Sam.

Sam was captured in the Balkan campaign on 8^th December 1915 whilst attached to 6^th Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers and held as a Prisoner of War in Bulgaria.

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⁸ ‘Taffy’ is Ernest Charles Smith and was suffering from dysentery at this time

⁹ Not sure of this reference as Sam’s mother died in 1901

¹⁰ ‘the best we can, don’t get much grub, five or six biscuits and a tin of bully beef and a little piece of bacon, might eat it later on in meal’

¹¹ Cyril Gotts & Ernest Bane

¹² ‘it will be a good job if they never have to go’

¹³ ‘we are on guard every other night, don’t get much sleep’

¹⁴ Lady Hamilton was the wife of General Sir Ian Hamilton, General OC Mediterranean Expeditionary Force

¹⁵ Bob is Robert Charles Gotts who married Sam’s sister Gertrude (Gerty)

¹⁶ Ethel is Sam’s eldest sister, she married James Bane

¹⁷ Tim and Edith are Sam’s eldest brother Arthur and his wife Edith

¹⁸ Willie is Laura’s second child, William Charles Neave b.1910

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2^nd January 1916

Tatar Bazardjik¹⁹

My Dearest Sis & Ch,

Once more I have the pleasure of writing a few more lines to you & I’m sure you will be very pleased except them as you have not had a line from me lately, well Dear I suppose you know we are prisoners in Bulgaria by this time, we were captured 8^th Dec so have had a month of it, hard for us but I suppose we must not mind that but think ourselves lucky we are alive, now Taffy²⁰ got wounded in the lower part of the body, he is not with us, but I think he must be in the hospitals somewhere behind, you better tell his mother that’s all I can say about him but hope I shall see him later, now dear Sis I thought about you Christmas and wished I were with you but I hope you enjoyed it, I don’t suppose you did much, let poor old Major know when you write to him and tell him I would write to him but I can’t, also tell my old pal Bell²¹, he’ll know who I mean.

I think you better ask Father to lend me five shillings, so you can send me a good parcel, send plenty of Woodbines and some grub as I am very hungry, send some writing paper if not I shall not be able to write back, we get a loaf a day, but they are not very big, (censored)²², we get a little stew twice a day but not much, I’m sure Father won’t mind, tell him how I am and I ask him to oblige me, I shall be home one day and shall be glad when that day come, I cannot tell you what I should like to but it will keep till I come home, let Tim know and Mother I cannot write as I have no more writing paper, Peter Cook²³ is with me he is wounded but can walk alright if not he would have not been with us, well Dear Sis you can let me know about Guppy and Cyril when you write and other news too if there are any, I don’t know what Mother will say when she know, tell her to write, now I think I have said all this time so goodbye all from your loving brother Sam.

For the children (XXXXXXXX)

Please don’t forget the cigarettes, food, send a tin of treacle if you can, writing paper, soap, towel. I’ll pay Father when I come home.

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¹⁹ Now Pazardjik

²⁰ Taffy died of his wounds on the day they were captured

²¹ This is probably referring to Stanley Bell

²² ‘nothing to eat with it’

²³ Peter Cook was from Thorpe Market. He died 17^th January 1916 and was buried in Philippopolis (now Plovdiv)

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8^th February 1916                                                                                                             Tatar Bazardjik

My Dear Sis & Charlie,

I now take the pleasure of writing a few more line to you & hope they will find you all quite well as it leaves me the same at present, or as well as can be expected, well Dear Sis I am still waiting for the parcel bit I expect it will have the depot by now, we are out working now, but I don’t think they will follow us, I wish they would as I am longing for a letter besides the treacle. It is awful nothing to eat with the bread, we get a little soup twice a day, I don’t think you have to pay anything for a parcel to send to prisoners up to 12 lbs, well Dear Sis how is poor old Major getting on & the other boys, I hope they are still well, is Guppy & Cyril gone out yet, how is Ethel getting on & Mother, tell them to write to me, give them my address, I have no more writing paper now so must close now trusting the War will soon be over so I can come back to old England, so goodbye all with love from your loving brother Sam.

For Willie  XXXXXXXXXXXX

21^st April 1916                                                                                                                             Philippopolis

Dear Sis & Char,

Once more I take the pleasure of writing you a few more lines which I hope will find you all well as it leaves me the same at present, now Dear Sis I received a parcel in a biscuit tin, but I don’t think it was the first parcel you sent as I look for a piece of Nelly’s cake as I received a letter from her and she said you sent a parcel and she said she put a piece of cake in it, but perhaps I shall get it Monday when they go for the parcels again, they send three times a week after them so shall expect it the next time they go.

Now Dear I must tell you I received a letter from you which March the 3^rd, it was 14 days coming but the parcels take longer, I have had one letter from Winnie²⁴, it came the other day I was rather surprised to hear from her but I was very pleased with the letter, she said the people seem to think it won’t last only till June, I hope that’s right, I suppose it will end one day, I am still as happy as ever I was, nothing worry old Sam, never did nor never will, I got a letter the other day which you sent to me before I was captured, Ethel had not got her son, then it went to England and then it came back again. Now Dear Sis I was better off my birthday than I thought as I received a parcel from the Red Cross Society containing one tin of milk, sugar, tea, brown dripping, jam, soup powder, 3 currant bread loaves, so that was alright.

XXXXXXXXXX for all the children.

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²⁴ This is Winifred Elizabeth Briggs who Sam married on 29^th March 1922

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28^th April 1916                                                                                                                            Philippopolis

Dear Sisters & Charlie,

Once more I will write a few lines to you which I hope will find you all in the best of health as it leaves me the same at present, now I got another letter from you which you wrote Dec 5^th so I should have had it a long time ago, I have had one parcel from home as I told you in my last letter and I must tell you the treacle was A1. I am expecting one Tuesday when they go after them, now Sergeant Beales got your letter this week and he told me to thank you for it, I told him he would not want to answer it as I would tell you. Well how is Maud getting on, give my best respects to her and tell her I often think about when the stick dropped on her head when she was picking up acorns, I wrote to Tim last time so I hope he will get it, do he still have the dog, I expect he catch him several chickens now. Now dear Sis I hope the things are looking well, I suppose they have not called Charlie up yet have they, it won’t matter if they do because he is for home defence.

Now I think I have said all this time, send another tin of treacle and some Woodbines when you like, now I think I have said all this time, so must close now, love from your ever loving brother Sam.

XXXXXXXXXX

Hope Major is still well.

6^th May 1916                                                                                                                              Philippopolis

My Dear Sis & Charlie & all,

I now take the pleasure of answering your letter which was posted Apr 4^th, it was 12 days coming and I hope these few lines will find you all in the best of health as it leaves me the same at present, well I was glad to hear Major is still alright & I hope I shall hear that every time you write and tell him if he don’t like being thin I will change places with him, we get the parcels alright but they take a long time to come, they take a month to six weeks, if you could send them through the Red Cross they would come much quicker as that is how my mate haves his come, it is very kind of Mrs Bent to send me a parcel and I shall be only too pleased to thank her when I come home, well dear Sis, send writing paper & pencils as mine is nearly wore up after writing all the letters since I have been out, also send some Woodbines, cocoa, sugar, milk and a penknife, treacle, butter, A G cigarette papers and a few mixed sweets, Sunlight soap to wash my clothes with.

Now I have had another parcel from Christine Knowles of London, it was a clothing parcel, there was a cardigan, 2 pairs of socks, grey back shirt, under shirt, scarf, pair of mittens, a comb, towel, tooth brush & a wooden fork & spoon and a good kitbag, so I don’t need any clothes, you can send a handkerchief please and if I want anything else I will write for it, I have had two letters from you, write every week as it is nice to have a (letter) to read as we never have any papers to read.

We have not had any snow here since Feb and don’t want any snow out here I can assure you, I have wrote to Tim and Nelly, tell Billy Neave he won’t stop me from singing when I make a start, I told Nelly to tell him to have a pint ready for me when I come home, I expect he will too. Well how is Bob, Albert, Rats, Jack, Billy Moy, are they still alright. Well dear Sister I think I have said all this time, I wrote to Owles and gave him a hint for some Woodbines & some eatables, hope he will send some.

Now I must close with best love from your affectionate Brother,

Remember me to Father & all.

XXXXXXXX

6^th May 1916                                                                                                                               Philippopolis

Dear Nelly²⁵ & Mother,

I am so pleased of having the pleasure of writing to you once again, and answering your kind letter which I received about three weeks ago, you must excuse me for not writing before but I told Laura to let you read the letters which I send to her as I see in her letter she have done so, now I get the parcels alright but they take longer to come than the letters. Some letters come in 12 days but it takes the parcels a month to six weeks.

Dear Nelly & Mother I am sorry to say I cannot give your kind regard to poor Peter as he is dead which I am sorry to let you know, he had some complaint come to him & they sent him to the hospital & that’s where he died. Poor Taffy got killed, yes you say you hope there will soon be a day come when we shall come home, I hope so too as I want some better grub, fancy having one loaf of bread and soup twice a day for six months, not a change at all, now you must not say much about the War as you say, so I hope you will keep all the news till I do come home, I keep saying to my chum we shall be home next month, when next month comes he say to me we are not home yet so I say we shall be home next month, he say o’ah next month never come, I say it will come some day, that’s all Sam worry I am just as happy as ever I was, Yes Mrs Loveday I heard you was married, you don’t wish I could have been there as much as I did, as I thought I should have been able to come to your as I missed Harry’s²⁶, Tim and Gerty’s & yours is four since I enlisted, what a lot of weddings in a short time, ‘Ah’ well never mind I shall have all the big days such as Christmas pudding, some pancakes, hot cross buns, Easter eggs, my birthday pudding, custard, blooming oranges up to my eyes when I do come home, I think that is all I missed.

Now dear Nelly & Mother don’t worry yourself more than I do then you will be alright. Tell Mrs Rayner my (sic) wafer thin now as I don’t get any puddings and things.

Now I must with best love from old Sam.

Tell William to have a pint ready for me when I come home.

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²⁵ Nelly is Bertha Helen Neave, she married John Alfred Loveday

²⁶ Harry is Harry George Neave

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26^th May 1916                                                                                                                            Philippopolis

My Dearest Sisters & all,

Many thanks for your kind letter which I received May 20^th. I was so pleased to hear from you once again, and glad to hear you were all quite well, hope you are still keeping the same now, and glad to remind you that I am still quite well and happy. Now dear Sis you say you have only had two letters since Christmas, I think I have wrote about ten, but perhaps you will have had more by the time you get this letter, I have had about four or five from you, I had one from Nelly, two from Winnie, write every week please and tell Nelly she can send a line when she like, now Dear Sis I have had two parcels from you and was very pleased with them, so I hope you will thank them for me and tell them I cannot write to them myself, the parcels were in good condition except the cake, and I couldn’t eat even a currant so don’t send any more food as it will not keep, Woodbines will do in the place of them, as we want them nearly as much as we do food now it is hot, don’t forget to tell Nelly the wedding cake was alright and I wished her good luck when I was eating it. I have had a nice parcel from Mrs Gressell, now I should like to know how Ethel’s son²⁷ is getting on, I suppose he will soon be big enough for trousers, I suppose Tim’s boy²⁸ is in trousers now, how is Willie and Helen²⁹, hope they are all well and growing, now tell Willie I shall soon be home, the letter which I got in the parcel had a lot clipped off, now I hope Charlie & Mike³⁰ are still keeping well, ask Charlie if he want any help on the allotment, tell Mr Neave I have learned some songs ready for when I come home, hope he will have a pint ready for me.

Now I think I have said nearly all this time, I expect I shall get your other parcel and also Mrs Bents about next week, Now I must close, Remember me to Mother, Nelly, Father and all live in hope of being home soon. So goodbye all from your ever loving brother Samuel.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxx for Willie, H, Bruiser and Tiny and the others.

I now got Mrs Bents parcel after I wrote this letter, the milk was bad but the cake eatable. I am waiting for March 16^th that’s all.

Conditions in the Prisoner of War camps were not good and rations, clothing and medicines were in short supply. A number of organisations sought to assist in getting supplies to the troops and the American Legation was among those providing help.

The letter below highlights some of the difficulties encountered in getting supplies across the borders and to the camps.

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²⁷ Ethel’s son is Edward Kitchener Bane born 12^th Dec 1915

²⁸ Tim’s boy is Arthur Robert Burton-Pye born 18^th Feb 1915

²⁹ Willie & Helen are sister Laura’s children

³⁰ Mike is Ethel’s husband James Bane

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Conditions in the Prisoner of War camps were not good and rations, clothing and medicines were in short supply. A number of organisations sought to assist in getting supplies to the troops and the American Legation was among those providing help.

The letter below highlights some of the difficulties encountered in getting supplies across the borders and to the camps.

Correspondence from the Senior British officer Lieutenant Gilliland at the Prisoner of War camp back to London asks that families do not send perishable goods as the time taken to get to the camp means they are no longer edible and have ruined other items packed with them. He suggests that all items be tinned and packed in wooden crates.

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June 1916                                                                                                                                     Philippopolis

Dear Sis & Charlie,

Just a few more line to you which I hope will find you all in the best of health as it leaves me the same at present. Now I received a letter from the War Office saying that I had wrote to Mrs C Neave and told her that Ernest Smith³¹ was dead, now I have got to state everything how what happened and Lieut. Gilliland say he have had a letter from my Sis, he told me your name and I said you were, but he thinks it will be alright, I hope so. Well dear Sis I have received three parcels from you, one from Mrs Bent so have one more to have, as that is all the letters I have had to say but perhaps you have sent another by now so I have got the socks and towel alright, also the wed(ding) cake, how is Charlie going on, is he still at home, now I am glad to say I feel quite well now, as the parcels have done us a lot of good, I am got clear of vermin, and got shirts & things, and have a nice cold bath in the river every morning.

Now I expect the things on the allotment are looking well now, also the corn, I was glad to hear that Major is still safe, now Dear Sis I think this is all just now, trusting I shall soon be in England with you again, so goodbye, remember me to all.

From your affectionate brother Sam XXXXXXXXXXXX

12^th July 1916

Dear Sis & Charlie and all,

Just a few lines in answer to your letter which I was so pleased to hear from you again and I hope these few lines will find you all quite well as it leaves me the same at present, thank Ethel for her letter which I received last week, I was also pleased to hear from her, I had a letter from Mr Owles in answer to mine which I wrote to him and he is sending me a parcel.

I was glad to hear Major is quite well & I hope he will keep so, I have had all the parcels from you now, I cannot say any more so must close with lots (of) love from your affectionate brother Sam.

This is all we can write.³²

August? 1916                                                                                                                             Drenovetze

Dear Sis’s,

Just a few more lines to you which I hope find you all quite well, as it leaves me the same at present, we are moved away from Philippople, but I think we shall be alright here, at least I hope so. Well I have not had a letter from you for a long time but I think you must have wrote and they have got lost, I hope Charlie like his new job, I hope the war will soon be over so I can have a change of food such as a good pudding. I cannot say any more so will close with love from your loving brother Sam.

10^th August 1916

My Dear loving sisters & all,

Just a few more lines to you trusting they will find you in the best of health as it leaves me at present. Dear Sis if you got my last letter will see I am shifted again, but I don’t think we are here for long, hope not any how, the place is Drenovetry, but I shall be pleased when peace is restored, and we get back to old England again, I have not had a letter from you lately, but am expecting one every day, hope Father still keep at work, how do Willie and Helen get on, I suppose they often talk about me, Dear Sis I hope Major³³ is still keeping well, how is Bob and Gerty. Think I have said all this time so goodbye all, from your ever loving brother Sam.

Will write to Ethel & Mother next week, are allowed to write twice a week now.

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³¹ It is believed that the British officers censored the letters so if the information regarding Taffy’s death was sensitive why wasn’t it suppressed

³² There appears to be a restriction on the length of letters – one page only

³³ Sam’s brother ‘Major’ was killed on the Somme on 15^th September 1916

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29^th September 1916

My Dear Loving Sis,

I am writing a few more lines to you follow a letter to one dated 27^th, I daresay you wonder why I write so many times, all the same I suppose you like to hear from me. Dear Sis I am sorry to have to ask for so much all at once but you told me in two letters to write for whatever I wanted. I want a knife badly to trim my toe nails, as you know how they were when I was at home, put it between the linen of the cap and put a newsp in and mend it up, that will come, you might put a £ in a pound of sugar when you send a parcel, Father will help you to get them, he’ll earn £10 10s for harvest, I suppose they have done now, I must close now, so goodbye with best love from your loving B Sam.

I still live in hopes of being home by Christmas, a year ago today since we left England.

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We have no further letters after this but we do know that Sam was still a Prisoner of War from a Red Cross report in March 1917 which recorded those men who had been sent to Sofia for a medical examination, Sam being one of them.

The British and French prisoners were generally treated a little better than others and their senior officers were given authority to deal with discipline. This policy of appointing senior officers, however, resulted in abuses and maltreatment.

Lieut. Gilliland, for example, was entrusted with full authority over all disciplinary issues as well as the distribution of money and food for the British prisoners in Philippopolis.

As all parcels from the British government were addressed to him, he was accused of giving out provisions in a corrupt and preferential way. Irish prisoners also reported that Gilliland was the reason why British prisoners were flogged publicly, for it was he who passed the orders for floggings to the Bulgarian guards.

Even though there is evidence that the Bulgarian commander Nickolov issued floggings of Serbian and French prisoners, the British prisoners saw Gilliland as the instigator of their own punishments and it is probable that he was singling out Irish prisoners.

The British government treated these accusations in a dismissive bureaucratic way. The War Department stated that as regards the subject of treatment generally of our men in Bulgaria the Council do not think it is desirable that too much should be made. Protests based upon statements of repatriated men, will not have the same force as those based upon reports from diplomatic sources, and may only have the effect of preventing Bulgarians from sending any more of our men home.  Still, even the backing of the American Consul could not support Gilliland’s position perpetually. The fact that sixteen officers revolted against him in November 1917 and thus forced his removal as senior officer of the camp was indicative of his behaviour. Gilliland’s case is an illustration of how rank and status took precedence over national identity and compassion during the Great War

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Sam was released by the Bulgarians in November 1918 and arrived back in Dover on 1^st December 1918³⁴.

On his return to civilian life Sam initially worked for Barclay, Pallett & Co. (millers and seed merchants) in Cromer but had to leave due to problems with dermatitis. He also worked on farms and possibly on the railways as a platelayer.

He married³⁵ Winifred Elizabeth Briggs, daughter of Ernest Frederick Briggs, on 29^th March 1922 at St James’ Church, Southrepps and together they raised five children. The 1939 register³⁶ shows the family living in Warren Road, Lower Street where Samuel was described as a Granary man.

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³⁴ Norfolk Regiment Casualty & Sickness Book – Page 64A

³⁵ Southrepps St James Marriage Register 1837-1937 – Entry no.428

³⁶ 1939 Register – TRJC

³⁷ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1933-1992 – Entry no.373

³⁸ Army Medal card

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Burton-Pye, Thomas Daniel Mayes

Thomas Burton-Pye was born 6^th December 1876¹ in Southrepps, the son of James Bloom and Caroline Bloom (née Pye).

In the 1881 census² Thomas was living in Lower Street with his parents and brother James (12), James’ father James Mayes was also living with them. The 1891 census³ sees the family including Thomas’ brothers Edward (9) and Walter (2) using the surname Mayes and living on the Common, Lower Street. Thomas and his father are farm labourers.

Thomas married⁴ Mary Jane Pitcher, daughter of James Pitcher and born in Southrepps, on 2^nd November 1899 in St Nicholas’ Church, Thames Ditton, Surrey where Mary was working as head housemaid for the Compton-Mackenzies. Thomas used the surname Mayes-Burton-Pye on his marriage register entry.

In 1901⁵ Thomas and Mary were living in Lower Street with his parents and brothers Edward (19) and Walter (12). Thomas was a bricklayer.

Thomas and Mary had two daughters, Beatrice Geraldine born 21^st March 1901 and Margery Ada Mayes born 29^th July 1904.

The 1911 census⁶ records Thomas and Mary living in Southrepps where Thomas was a bricklayer and an employer. They both have under-recorded their ages and only show being married for 4 years. They have had 3 children, one of which has died. The two surviving children are not living with them.

Margery Ada married Arthur⁷ William Dennis in 1927 and had sons Owen in 1928 and Derek in 1932. They were living in 1 Gunton Terrace, Overstrand in 1939. The 1939 register¹ records Thomas and Mary Burton-Pye living in Lower Street.

In 1949 Thomas and Mary celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary and the local paper ran an article on them. It seems that Thomas was now blind and Mary’s eyesight was failing.

Thomas died on 8^th January 1950⁸ aged 73 and Mary 4 weeks later on 3^rd February. Their address at the time of their deaths was The Hill, Lower Street.

Thomas’ brothers, Edward and Walter David Bloom, also served in the Army.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁹.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJC

² 1881 Census – RG11/1923 Folio 62 Page 27

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1510 Folio 86 Page 27

⁴ Thames Ditton St Nicholas Marriage Register 1899 – Entry no.77

⁵ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 94 Page 25

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/168

⁷Arthur is mentioned in Tim Bennett’s book ‘Overstrand in the Great War’

⁸ National Probate Calendar 1950 – Page 663

⁹ Army Medal Index Card

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Claxton, Beatrice Lottie

Beatrice Lottie Claxton was born in 30^th April 1889^1,2 in Roughton, the daughter of Charles Claxton and Elizabeth Claxton (née Cole). Beatrice was baptised² on 7^th July 1889 at St Mary’s Church, Roughton.

In 1891³ the Claxton family were living at Metton Lane, Metton where Charles was an agricultural labourer. Beatrice’s siblings were Daniel (9), Robert (7) and Mildred (4). The 1901 census⁴ shows the family living at Cromer Road, Metton. Beatrice’s siblings were now Daniel (19), Charles (9), James (6), Elizabeth (4) and Linas May (1).

Beatrice married Alec Ambrose Garrish on 6^th September 1919⁶ in Cromer and they had their son Stanley in 1921. In 1939¹ they were living at Jesmond, Bacton where Alec was a travelling salesman.

Beatrice Garrish died on 9^th February 1976⁷ in Great Yarmouth aged 86 and was buried in Caister.

Beatrice’s four brothers, Charles, Daniel (Cole), James and Robert served in the army.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRZA

² Roughton St Marys Baptism Register 1889 – Entry no.151

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1511 Folio 150 Page 3

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1825 Folio 92 Page 4

⁵ Red Cross records

⁶ Cromer Marriage Register – Entry no. 25

⁷ National Probate Calendar 1976 Page 3058

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Claxton, Charles

Charles Claxton was born in Metton on 19^th October 1891^1,2 the son of Charles Claxton and Elizabeth Claxton (née Cole). Charles was baptised² in St Andrew’s Church, Metton on 5^th August 1894.

The 1901 census³ shows the family living at Cromer Road, Metton. Charles’ siblings were Daniel (19), Beatrice (11), James (6), Elizabeth (4) and Linas May (1). In 1911⁴ the family were living in Sustead and Charles junior’s siblings still at home were Daniel (29), Mildred (24), James (16) and Linas May (12). Charles was a farm labourer.

On his return from army service Charles married Mabel E Gilding in 1920. They had at least one child, Bertie, born in 1920. In 1939¹ the Claxton family were living at Briar Barn, Thorpe Market where Charles was an agricultural labourer.

Charles Claxton died in Norfolk in 1949 aged 58.

His brothers Daniel (Cole), James and Robert served in the army and his sister Beatrice in the Red Cross.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – 1914/15 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJG

² Metton St Andrews Baptism Register 1894 – Entry no.225

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1825 Folio 92 Page 4

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11180/63

⁵ Medal Index Card

⁶ Southrepps Absent Voters List 1918

⁷ Medal Rolls

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Claxton, James

James Claxton was born in Metton on 27^th April 1894^1,2 the son of Charles Claxton and Elizabeth Claxton (née Cole). James was baptised in St Andrew’s Church, Metton² on 5^th August 1894.

The 1901 census³ shows the family living at Cromer Road, Metton. James’ siblings were Daniel (19), Beatrice (11), Charles (9), Elizabeth (4) and Linas May (1). In 1911⁴ the family were living in Sustead and James’ siblings still at home were Daniel (29), Mildred (24), Charles (19) and Linas May (12). James was a farm labourer.

On his return from military service James married Marion Andrews in 1922 and they had daughters Jean born 1925 and Doris Marion born 1929.

In 1939¹ James and his family were living at 24 Hungry Hill, Northrepps where James was an agricultural labourer.

James Claxton died⁶ in Norfolk in 1975 aged 81.

His brothers Daniel (Cole), Charles and Robert also served in the army and his sister Beatrice in the Red Cross.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJB

² Metton St Andrews Baptism Register 1894 – Entry no.226

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1825 Folio 92 Page 4

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11180/63

⁵ Norfolk Regiment Casualty & Sickness Book – Page 119A

⁶ GRO Death Register 2Q 1975

⁷ Medal Roll

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Claxton, Robert William

Robert William Claxton was born in Roughton on 16^th October 1883¹, the son of Charles Claxton and Elizabeth Claxton (née Cole). Robert was baptised¹ on 7^th November 1886 at St Mary’s Church, Roughton.

In 1891² the Claxton family were living at Metton Lane, Metton where Charles was an agricultural labourer. Robert’s siblings were Daniel (9), Mildred (4) and Beatrice (1). The 1901 census³ shows Robert working as a groom at Duffields Farm, Sustead.

Robert William Claxton died in Greece on 23^rd February 1918⁶ of Black Water Fever and was buried in the Anglo French Military Cemetery, Lembet Road, Salonika in Plot 1370.

His brothers Daniel (Cole), Charles and James also served in the army and his sister Beatrice in the Red Cross.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal & Victory Medal⁷.

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¹ Roughton St Marys Baptism Register 1886 – Entry no.114

² 1891 Census – RG12/1511 Folio 150 Page 3

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1825 Folio 94 Page 8

⁴ Marriage Records 1906 – Metton – Entry no.35

⁵ 1911 Census – RG14/11180/65

⁶ CWGC files

⁷ Medal Index Card

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Cole (aka Claxton), Daniel William

Daniel William Cole was born in West Beckham Workhouse on 1^st December 1881^1,2 the illegitimate son of Elizabeth Cole. Daniel was baptised¹ in the Workhouse on 11^th December 1881. Elizabeth Cole subsequently married Charles Claxton and Daniel appears to have initially adopted the Claxton surname.

In 1891³ the Claxton family were living at Metton Lane, Metton where Charles was an agricultural labourer. Daniel’s half siblings were Robert (7), Mildred (4) and Beatrice (1). The 1901 census⁴ shows the family living at Cromer Road, Metton. Daniel’s half siblings were Beatrice (11), Charles (9), James (6), Elizabeth (4) and Linas May (1). Daniel’s surname was recorded as Cole.

In 1904⁵ Daniel Claxton was noted as a Farm Bailiff to Mr Spurrell in Roughton.  In 1911⁶ the family were living in Sustead and Daniel’s half siblings still at home were Mildred (24), Charles (19), James (16) and Linas May (12). Daniel was a farm labourer.

Daniel married Ellen Selina Woods on 12^th October 1911⁷ in Metton church and they had sons Edward born 1912, Daniel born 1913, Walter born 1916 and Sidney James born 1919.

His half-brothers Charles, James and Robert also served in the army and his half-sister Beatrice in the Red Cross.

Gallantry & Campaign Medals awarded – British War Medal⁸ & Victory Medal.

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¹ West Beckham Workhouse Baptism Register – Entry no.701

² 1939 Register – TRJH

³ 1891 Census – RG12/1511 Folio 150 Page 3

⁴ 1901 Census – RG13/1825 Folio 92 Page 4

⁵ Kelly’s Directory of Norfolk 1904 – Page 718

⁶ 1911 Census – RG14/11180/63

⁷ Marriage Register 1911 – Metton – Entry no.39

⁸ Army Medal Roll

⁹ Burial records 1951 – Roughton – Entry no.189

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Colman, Reginald Frederick

Reginald Frederick Colman was born in Southrepps on 13^th September 1898¹,² the son of Frederick Daniel Colman and Ellen Maria Colman (née Nichols). Reginald was baptised¹ on 30^th October 1898 at St James’ Church, Southrepps.

In 1901³ the Colman family were living in Sandy Lane, Southrepps where Frederick was a granary labourer. The 1911 census⁴ finds the family still in Sandy Lane and Reginald was at school. He now has sisters Elsie (9), Freda (8) and a brother Josiah (1).

Reginald’s war service has been difficult to ascertain but we know he served with the East Kent Regiment as Private 24962 before transferring to the Labour Corps as Private 578329⁵.

In 1926 Reginald married Ellen Kathleen Albon in Sudbury, Suffolk and the 1939 Register² finds them living at ‘Roydon’, Antingham Road in Southrepps where Reginald was a general labourer.

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¹ Southrepps St James Baptism Register 1879-1916 – Entry no.381

² 1939 Register – TRJF

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 84 Page 5

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/16/98

⁵ Army Medal Index card

⁶ Southrepps St James Burial Register – Entry no.255

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Craske, Edward John

Edward John Craske was born in Sustead on 17^th November 1897¹, the son of Robert Craske and Julia Craske (née Grey). Edward was baptised² at Church of Sts Peter & Paul, Sustead on 16^th January 1898.

In 1901³ the Craske family were living in Sandy Lane, Southrepps where Robert was a boot and shoe maker. Edward’s siblings were Edith (5) and Frederick (1). Robert died in 1903 and his widow Julia married John Henry Codling in 1906.

The 1911⁴ census shows the Codling / Craske family living in Southrepps. Edward was now a carter and his siblings were Edith (15), Frederick (11) and Rex (8) and half-siblings Amelia (3) and Jack (11 months).

Edward enlisted with the 1^st Reserve Battalion Suffolk Yeomanry on 9^th December 1915 in Cromer as Private 2819. He was mobilised on 26^th Sept 1916 and transferred to the 5^th Battalion Machine Gun Corps as Private 78192 on 26^th November 1916. Edward arrived in France on 26^th June 1917 and was transferred to the Tank Corps on 10^th December 1918. He was demobilised on 31^st March 1920.

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¹ 1939 Register – TRJC

² Sustead Sts Peter & Paul Baptism Register 1898 – Entry no.345

³ 1901 Census – RG13/1824 Folio 84 Page 5

⁴ 1911 Census – RG14/11178/28

⁵ Southrepps St James Burial Register 1933-1992 – Entry no.495

⁶ Army Medal Index card & Medal Roll

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