This Week in World War One, 14 June 1918

15/06/2018 by Northumberland Archives

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 14 JUNE 1918

WAR NEWS

PRIVATE PETER WAITE A PRISONER

We are glad to hear that news has come to hand that Private Peter Waite, nephew of Councillor Robson, Duns, reported missing since 11th April, is now a prisoner of war in Germany. This soldier who was only 19 five days before the above date was serving his apprenticeship as a draper with his uncle, and was called to the army in June last, when he was first of all in the H.L.I., and afterwards transferred to the Royal Scots Fusiliers. He spent a few days’ leave in Berwick-on-Tweed and Duns before crossing to France on 30th March. His grandmother, Mrs Robson, resides in Berwick, and his mother is presently serving with Queen Mary’s Army Auxiliary Corps in the South of England. Private Waite’s elder brother was killed in action in France about eighteen months ago.

LOWICK

We regret to announce that Mr. G. Trotter of Beal Farm, Beal, has received word that his son, Private R. J. Trotter, whose photo we produce, has been wounded in the left leg and right shoulder, and is now recovering from his wounds in West Didsbury Military Hospital. Private R. Trotter joined a Training Reserve in January, 1917 and went to France in July, 1917. After having been there about a month he developed an attack of bronchial pneumonia and was sent over to Edmonton War Hospital, London, in August. After having recovered and received more training, he was again sent to France, this time with the West Yorks in January, 1918, and while out there was transferred to another Battalion and remained with them until wounded on May 27th, 1918. Private Trotter, being of a very quiet disposition, was respected and liked by all his chums. Prior to enlistment he was employed as a farm servant on the farm of Mr Davidson, Beal.

TWEEDMOUTH

Mr and Mrs Gray, Seton House, West End, Tweedmouth, have received a letter from their son-in-law, L. Cpl. E. Pilmer, informing them of the death of their eldest son, Signaller Jas. Gray, N.F. he states that he was killed by a sniper. His brother-in-law was with him when he was killed. Signaller Gray joined up over three years ago, and after doing some months’ training in this country he was drafted out to France. He had been there for over two years, and had been home once on leave during that time. He was of a very quiet disposition, and one who was highly respected by all whom he came in contact with. His younger brother, George, was killed in France over two and a half years ago. Previous to enlisting he was employed as a gardener, having served his apprenticeship with Mr Anderson, East Ord. We extend to Mr and Mrs Gray and family our deepest sympathy in this sad bereavement that has befallen them.

SCREMERSTON

The news was received in Scremerston by his relatives that Sergt. Wm. Mowitt, Duke of Wellingtons, has been gassed and sent to the Base Hospital. Sergeant Mowitt, who resides at Deputy Row, has been once wounded before and before joining up worked at Scremerston Colliery as a weighman. His sister is a teacher at Scremerston School.

LOCAL NEWS

About a dozen signallers of the Northern Cyclists, under the command of Lieut. Meek, attended morning service at Scremerston Church on Sunday last. The service was taken by Mr Peacock, Diocesan lay reader, in the absence of the Vicar, who is again under medical treatment in the hands of Dr Chas. Fraser.

British cyclists passing through the ruined village of Brie, Somme, France. © Ernest Brooks. This is photograph Q 1868 from the collections of the Imperial War Museums. Crown copyright expired.

Captain D. R. Herriot, Northumberland Fusiliers, the youngest of the three sons serving of Mr David Herriot, Sanson Seal, who has been in hospital suffering from slight gunshot wound in the jaw, is progressing favourably, though not yet out of hospital. He was educated at Cargilfield, Fetes, and Cains College, Cambridge, and is still an undergraduate and mathematical scholar of Cains. He distinguished himself highly both in the class room and cricket field at School and college, and at the commencement of war got his commission in “The Fighting Fifth,” and was wound in the second battle of Ypres in April, 1915.

Fettes College, Edinburgh, where Captain D. R. Herriot, received part of his education. © Author: Stephen C. Dickson. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 license.

At a quiet family gathering on June 1st the golden wedding of Mr and Mrs Joseph Redfearn, Parade, Berwick, was celebrated. Fifty years ago in the Parish Church, the couple were united in matrimony by the Vicar (Mr Rowe), and there have been eleven of a family, seven of whom survive. Prior to her marriage, Mrs Redfearn was a Miss Margaret Yeaman. Mr Redfearn was by occupation a cabinetmaker, and worked with Mr Patterson, who at one time had businesses in Bridge Street and Hide Hill. A piccolo player of repute, he was one of the original members of the now defunct Mechanics Band, and he also was a member of the old Berwick Volunteer Artillery Band. Mr Redfearn joined the Artillery in 1860, and took part in many big gun and carbine shoots. He was the first member of the Volunteers to win the Commercial Travellers’ Cup, and he has also a treasured possession, a gold scarf pin, presented by the father of the late Duke of Northumberland, for big gun shooting. We trust Mr and Mrs Redfearn will be spared to spend many more years of happy married life.

HORNCLIFFE

A correspondent informs us that even the birds of the air are becoming a little exasperated with the food restrictions. At Horncliffe, or at least about half a mile above the village, up stream, he witnessed a short engagement between a crow and a big seagull over a small piece of war bread which some angler had let fall by the riverside. The crow had found the prize first and was pecking vigorously at the indigestible stuff when the seagull which was circling over a neighbouring cliff observed that there was something going past him. He immediately swooped down on the crow which showed a reluctance to leave its legitimate find, crouching back over the disputes piece of bread with outspread wings and open beak. The seagull continued to set up a most appalling noise, screaming and turning just over head, and evidently this proved too much for the nerves of the crow, which ultimately evacuated the position before the superior strength of the enemy. We must say, it has been reported to us from other sources, chiefly at the seaside, that gulls are becoming very quarrelsome amongst themselves in the last year or so, whenever food is thrown to them.

This Week in World War One, 3 May 1918

04/05/2018 by Northumberland Archives

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 3 MAY 1918

WAR NEWS

FORMER SCREMERSTON SOLDIER WOUNDED

We regret to hear that Bombadier Esau Wilkinson, who for many years resided in Scremerston, a nephew of Mr and Mrs Younger, East Allerdean, has been wounded and is now in Bolton Hospital, Lancs. Bomb. Wilkinson was knocked out by a wound in the head and right hand while carrying a wounded comrade. The shell which knocked him over was responsible for the death of three other men. He joined the R.F.A. in the early stages of the war and has seen some heavy fighting since going out to France three years ago.

FORMER ROYAL SCOTS WOUNDED AND GASSED

News has been received by a friend in Berwick, that Sergeant George Gardiner, Machine Gun Corps. Late Royal Scots, has been wounded and gassed in the big offensive.

British troops blinded by tear gas in 1918. © Author: Thomas Keith Aitken (Second Lieutenant). This photograph Q11586 is from the collections of the Imperial War Museums (collection no. 1900-22).

BERWICK SOLDIER A PRISONER

Lance Corpl. James Roughhead.

Information has been received by Sergt. Wm Purves, K.O.S.B., that his nephew, Lance-Corpl. James Roughead, Durham Light Infantry is a prisoner of war in a German Camp. Lance Corpl Roughead was at one time a member of the M.C. Section of the local Territorials, but had severed his connection prior to the war. In civil life he was employed as a stone mason.

BERWICK BOARD OF GUARDIANS

CARE OF SOLDIERS’ CHILDREN

A circular, enclosing resolution, from the Farlington Boarding Out Committee on the lack of supervision of our sailors and soldiers children was submitted in which they invited the cooperation of the Guardians to bring the matter before the Local Government Board. It was alleged that there were large numbers of children boarded out at the present moment without adequate supervision, and the circular advocated the appointment of trained women inspectors and visitors. In the course of a discussion the Chairman said there was a strong animus against allowing such children to come under Guardians’ care, and he thought it was a foolish sentimental feeling. It was agreed to remit the matter for further consideration to the Boarding Out Committee.

NOTES FROM SPITTAL

Mr and Mrs William Moffat, 18 Middle Street, Spittal, have received news from their son, Private John Moffat, Royal Scots, that he has been wounded in the thigh, during the recent heavy fighting, and is now in hospital at Sheffield, Private Moffat joined up early in the war and has had a long spell in France, this being the third time he has been wounded. Prior to the war he was a pitman. Another brother, William, joined the Northumberland Fusiliers at the outbreak of war and has seen a lot of severe fighting. He also has been wounded twice, and is at present serving in France with the Staffordshires.

Mrs King, 13 West Street, Spital, has received official information that her husband, Private John King, Royal Scots Fusiliers, is missing. Before going to France, private King was stationed at Berwick for a considerable time, and was attached to “A” Company, Royal Scots. We trust Mrs King (who was formerly Miss Wales, daughter of the late Mr John wales, painter, Spittal) may soon hear good news regarding her husband.

Mrs O’Connor, 20 Middle Street, Spittal, has received information from her husband, Private Robert O’Connor, Northumberland Fusiliers, that he has been taken prisoner by the Germans and is now interned at Limburg.

Pictured is the WW1 prisoner of war camp at Limburg, where Private Robert O’Connor, Northumberland Fusiliers was interned.

The German offensive is still being actively carried on, which makes it impossible for any of our soldier lads to get home on leave. Thanks to our Navy’s supremacy on the sea, the German Fleet do not feel inclined to come out and try a Tussle. For the time being this enables the Navy men to have a great advantage with regard to leave over their soldier comrades. This week we are glad to see Seaman David Scott and Jos. Elliott, R.N.R., spending a few days at home. Both seem to be enjoying the best of health. In civil life Seaman Scott’s occupation was that of cooper, while Seaman Elliott was a fine fisherman, being one of the crew of a Spittal coble

Seaman Thomas Martin, R.N.R., who is engaged in the dangerous work of minesweeping off the East Coast, is, we notice, having a few days’ leave at home. He joined up in January, 1915, and during his long spell of service has had some exciting experiences. Before the war Seaman Martin was a fisherman.

Seaman John Moody, R.N.R., son of Mr Robt. Moody, West Street, Spittal, is having a few days’ leave from his active duties. We are glad to know he is enjoying the best of health.

This Week in World War One, 19 April 1918

20/04/2018 by Northumberland Archives

BERWICK ADVERTISER, 19 APRIL 1918

WAR NEWS

TWEEDMOUTH SOLDIER KILLED

It was with profound regret that we learn of the death in action on 23rd March, of Signaller T. W. Logan, Hussars, son of Mr and Mrs George Logan, Railway Buildings, Tweedmouth. The official news only arrived on Sunday last, but for some weeks his parents had been anxious as to his safety. Signaller Logan who was 24 years of age was a quiet studious lad, taking a keen interest in Continuation Class Education where he succeeded in taking his eighty words speed certificate in Shorthand and also became proficient in book-keeping. He received his schooling under Mr John Peacock, Tweedmouth, and then went to the Tweedside Co-Operative Society as a draper, which trade he followed up to the time of his enlistment in January, 1915. He was trained at Stocksfield and York, and later was stationed at Titworth. Proceeding into France with his regiment, he was later invalided home and again being classed fit for service, was drafted to the front again in October last year. The news of his end will come as a blow to the many friends who loved and respected him, and to the bereaved parents the deepest sympathy is extended.

BERWICK OFFICER WOUNDED AND MISSING

Lieut. W. Leonard Ward-Davis

We are sorry to hear that information has come to Mr and Mrs Ward-Davis, North Terrace, Berwick that their son, Lieut. W. L. Ward-Davis, Kings Royal Rifles, has been wounded in the recent fighting and is missing. In view of the fact that several companies of regiments holding the line were overwhelmed by the German onrush, there is every reason to hope that this gallant young officer has been taken prisoner and we trust reassuring news will be received by his parents soon.

Lieut. Davis joined up as a private on reaching the age of eighteen and proceeded to France in 1916, being wounded six weeks later by slight gunshot in the face. Recovering at a Base hospital in France, he was soon back in the line again and was later sent to this country to go through a course preparatory to taking a commission. He received his commission in the summer of last year, and has since then seen heavy work in France. Prior to enlisting he was employed as a clerk in the Commercial Bank, Berwick, and was educated at Berwick Grammar School.

LOCAL NEWS

The Playhouse continues to attract large audiences and maintains its reputation for the fine class and variety of its films. “The Saints Adventure” is the novel title of this week’s film. It depicts the life story of an American pastor. He is appointed to one of the most fashionable New York Churches, whose assets exceed half a million pounds, and its charity balls are a society function. Charlie Chaplin also appears in his inimitable Comedy “The Vagabond”. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday a charming and entertaining comedy entitled “Skinner’s Bubble” is to be filmed. It is a sequel to the one which was recently screened “Skinner’s Dress Suit,” which raised him from the humble position of cashier to that of junior partner. An out and out bluffer the new picture shows Skinner imagining that he can become a Napoleon of the industrial world by starting on his own account. It is then that the partners decide that it would be a tremendous mistake in letting so valuable a person as Skinner go out of the firm. It so happens that just as Skinner is preparing to file his bankruptcy papers, and confess himself a most miserable failure; the partners make him a staggering offer to rejoin their firm. Excellent variety articles are found in Halbert, ventriloquist, and De Lil, illusionist, who are complete in their acts and tricks.

SCREMERSTON

We are pleased to see home on a well-earned rest after having been wounded for the third time, Lance-Corporal Thos. Robertson, of Scremerston Hill Farm, Scremerston. We wish him a pleasant holiday.

All men taken by Ballot at Scremerston Colliery last week have passed the medical Board, and are off to Catterick.

An early image of Scremertson Colliery © Northumberland Archives Berwick, BRO 515-209.

Private John Mowitt, N.F., has been home at Scremerston Old Colliery on hospital leave for ten days, he having been in hospital in England for the last four months suffering with his chest and feet. Mowitt has been twice in France, and has seen some fighting, notably Paschendaal. Previous to joining the Army he was an old Territorial, and worked as a miner at Scremerston Colliery. He is married, has a wife and two children.

TILLMOUTH

The children of the school, under the tutorship of Mr and Mrs Rathbone, gave a most varied and interesting evening on Friday last of song and play. Sir Francis Blake was in the chair, and in his opening remarks alluded to the high place the school had taken in War Savings Fund and of the good work done in the district in connection with the war. In conclusion Sir Francis said we were here at the invitation of teachers and children to show us parents what is being done to bring out the individuality of the child, as after all when school days are over the confidence of our own individuality was a great factor. For two hours the crowded school were treated to a most delightful programme and to pick out any child for special mention would be unfair. A silver collection was made, and a sum of £8 10s 11d was forthcoming, which Mr Rathbone is handing over to Blind Soldiers’ Children Fund. Expenses were nil, owing to the kindness of a few friends, to whom our thanks are due for putting up stage and carting seats. Special thanks are due to the children for their enthusiasm in their training and also to Mr and Mrs Rathbone for the care and trouble taken. The success of performers will no doubt be ample reward for their kindness in providing such a treat for the district.

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