BISHOPS HULL WAR MEMORIAL Erected 1921

BISHOPS HULL WAR MEMORIAL

Index: page

Introduction 1

Somerset County Gazette Report 1921 2 – 3

Memories of Bishops Hull 3

Those Remembered on the War Memorial 4 - 36

Memorial Board in Bishops Hull Church 37 - 40

Second World War Names 41 - 46

Extra Names 47

Sources 48 Introduction.

The Bishops Hull Family History Group group holds monthly meetings at the Frank Bond Centre and is one of the many activities organised by the centre.

In 2013 Bishops Hull Parish Council awarded a grant to the Family History Group with a view to research those names that appear on the War Memorial, to recognise the sacrifice of the men associated with Bishops Hull.

It must be remembered that at the time of the First World War Bishops Hull covered a larger geographical area than the present Parish. It included parts of the present Galmington, and , Rumwell and extended into as far as Castle Street, Tangier.

The County Gazette reported that the War Memorial was unveiled and dedicated on Sunday 6th.November 1921, from this report it is clear that there were 34 names engraved on the monument when it was first erected.

In “My memories of Bishops Hull”, published in February 2001, Christine Quartly recalls that the names of the fallen in the First World War had become so eroded on the memorial that in 1993 a new plaque was dedicated. This bronze plaque lists 29 names.

The research has proved that not only were names omitted from this 1993 plaque but other errors have been made, we have highlighted these in our findings. During our research we have found other men from the village that had died during the war have not been included on the memorial, these names have been included in our research.

There is also a wooden Memorial Board in the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul, Bishop’s Hull. Listed on this Board are names of the men from the village who took part in the First World War, a copy of this list of names appears in our research with further information where found.

In 1993 a new plaque was added to the memorial dedicated to the men who died in the Second World War. A limited research has been made on these names and the results are included.

At a Parish Council meeting held on 10th April 2014 it was agreed in principle to replace the First World War plaque, and to seek a Grant from the War Memorials Trust.

Sources and acknowledgements are included at the end of our Research.

The research has been carried out by:- Bob Steed, Ken Burgess, John Hamer and Norman Thompson.

1 The County Gazette dated 12th.November 1921, page 5 reported the unveiling and dedication of the Memorial which took place on Sunday 6th.November 1921. The following is a copy of that report:-

BISHOP’S HULL MEMORIAL STONE CROSS UNVEILED TRIBUTES TO THE GALLANT DEAD

The unveiling of the Bishop’s Hull War Memorial was impressively carried out on Sunday afternoon in the presence of a large attendance of parishioners. The memorial takes the form of a stone cross, which has been erected in a prominent position opposite the entrance to the parish church. The cross is raised on two steps which are let into the wall, and is enclosed from the road by an ornamental stone and chain barrier. Constructed by Messrs.Phippard, of Taunton, it is of Doulting stone, and is quite plain except for a sword carved out of the upper part. At the base appear the words, “In honoured memory of the men from Bishop’s Hull who fell in the Great War, 1914- 1919”. The names of the men commemorated appear on either side of the first step in the following order:- Harry Allan, Thomas Allan, Stafford Bastard, Arthur Batten, Mark Board, Harry Carpenter, James Cavill, Harry Cridge, James Crossman, William Gill, Percy Gray, Edward Jewell, Edgar King, Frederick Mattravers, Ian Melhuish, Walter Perry, Sydney Peters, Edgar Pratt, Albert Pugsley, Bassett Paton, Arthur Robinson, Geoffrey Smerdon, Charles Smith, Charles Strickland, Christopher Swain, Reginald Swain, Arthur Trott, Archibald Walsh, Walter Ware, Reginald Weaver, Harry Webber, Herbert Wilkins, Clarence Winn, Stanley Wood. The Memorial Committee, who worked hard for the success of their scheme, consisted of Mr.C.Leslie Fox (Chairman), Mrs Watts, Miss Lythall, the vicar, the Rev.R.C.W.Raban, and Messrs. R.J.S.Hill (Hon Secretary) H.J.Wadham, E.P.Peters, and L.Balman. Boy Scouts from Taunton, under Mr.J.Betty, and the Bishop’s Hull Girl Guides under the charge of Mrs.Scoble, formed a guard of honour, and the church and chapel choirs amalgamated for the occasion. The religious service, which was brief and simple, was conducted by the Rev.Preb.Maynard, of Milverton. After the hymns “O God, our help in ages past” and “Fight the good fight” had been sung, and prayer offered, Colonel Hartley Maud, C.M.G., unveiled the memorial. He said: “The names engraved on this cross commemorate sons of the British Empire who heard the call of duty, and went out to die for King and country. In the cause of humanity they left the best which life had to offer them, and finally gave their lives that we might live in freedom. Their remembrance will endure as long as the British language is spoken in this land. The glorious traditions which, by their heroic self-sacrifice, they have made must be upheld by the future generation. Let this cross become a pillar of help to those who are left, that they may make their lives better when they recall the names of those who died for them out in Flanders.”

2 The Rev.Preb.Maynard, in the course of a brief speech, pleaded that honour must be given to whom honour was due. That cross was to be a memorial which would stand for all time as an outward sign of gratitude and honoured remembrance of sacrifice, the price paid by those brave men had been great, but all progress in the world was by suffering, we were reaping what they had sown. Future generations and descendants of the fallen would visit that memorial to honour the names thereon engraved. It remained for us to be inspired to higher and nobler things for the sake of the memories of those men – “As they passed over all the trumpets sounded”. Preb. Maynard then dedicated the memorial “To the glory of God and in memory of the men of Bishop’s Hull who fell in the Great War”. This was followed by two minutes of silent prayer, after which bugles from the Taunton Depot sounded the Last Post. The National Anthem brought the service to a close. The school children, who had been trained by the head master, Mr.W.J.Blatchford, were also present, and Mr.W.R.Dyer, organist of the church, acted as accompanist for the singing. Muffled peals were rung on the church bells both prior and after the ceremony. The cost of erecting the memorial is £220. A number of beautiful wreaths were afterwards placed on the monument from family and relations of the fallen.

MY MEMORIES OF BISHOP'S HULL

By Christine Laura Quartly

February 2001

The War Memorial

The names of the fallen in the First World War had become so eroded, and those of the Second World War had not been added, so the Parish Council decided that there should be new bronze plaques and inscriptions giving the names of the fallen in both World Wars.

On 9th February 1993, Col. Sir John Lawson unveiled these, and school children planted a tree. Prayers were said by our Vicar, Rev. Colin Randall, and the Last Post and Reveille were sounded by buglers from Wellington School CCF. The Mayor, Mrs. Margaret Dickson and a contingent of the British Legion as well as many people from our village attended the ceremony.

3 THOSE REMEMBERED ON THE WAR MEMORIAL

Henry ALLEN Private 28738

7th.Bn. Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry.

(Formerly 1135 W.Som Yeo)

Henry was born in 1895 at , he was one of eleven children born to William and Sarah Ann Allen. The 1901 census shows the family to be living at but by the time of the 1911 census the family are living at Barr Cottages, Bishops Hull. Henry died, 10th March 1917, Age 22, the Commonwealth War Graves (CWGC) shows that he was the son of William and Sarah Ann and they give the address as being West Wood, Crowcombe.

Henry is the brother of Thomas (Tom) Allen.

Remembered with Honour at Grove Town Cemetery, Meaulte.

Meaulte is a village in the Department of the Somme, immediately south of Albert.

4 Thomas ALLEN (The name was originally on the memorial but has not been included on the replacement plaque)

Private 17396

Somerset Light Infantry 6th.Btn

Thomas (Tom) was born in 1892 the son of William Allen, he married Rose Paddick in 1911, the census for 1911 shows them to be living at Upcott Cottage, Bishops Hull.

He was killed in action 2nd August 1916 and the Medal Roll shows that he was awarded the 1914-15 Star, Victory and British medals.

Thomas is the brother of Henry Allen.

Remembered with Honour at Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

Charles Stafford BASTARD Private 31914

1st. Bn. Somerset Light Infantry

Charles was born in 1898 at Taunton the second child of Charles Henry and Constance Sarah Bastard. The 1911 census shows four children being born and the address is shown as Mount Villa, Mount Street, Taunton. Charles died of his wounds on 29th August 1918 age 20. His parents are shown to be living at The Orchard, Bishops Hull.

Remembered with Honour at Ligny-St.Flochel, Averdoingt.

Ligny-St.Flochel is a village about 4 miles east of St.Pol off the main road to Arras, approximately 15 miles from Arras.

5 Arthur Henry BATTEN Private 31886

1st.Bn. Devonshire Regiment

Arthur the only child of Henry Edward and Alice Batten (nee Reed) was born at in 1900. In 1911 the family are living at Stanley House, Bishops Hull. Arthur died of his wounds at the Military Hospital, Stockport on 12th March 1919 Age 19. His father, Henry, is shown as living at 3 Netherclay Terrace, Bishops Hull, his mother, Alice had died in 1914.

The Gazette of March 29 1919 has a write up of his funeral, which took place at St James's cemetery on 20th March. (Grave location B 139) "He had been in the Army just over twelve months, previous to which he was employed as a clerk by Messrs Thomas & Co, coal merchants, Taunton. The first part of the service was held in Bishops Hull parish church, conducted by the vicar, the Rev, George Raban, and the chief mourners were Mr and Mrs Batten (father and stepmother), Mr and Mrs Blackmore and Mr and Mrs Trebble (uncles and aunts), Mr WG Batten and Mr F Gamlin (uncles), Mrs Gamlin (grandmother), Mrs Reed (aunt), Mrs Jewell and Mrs Richards."

The Medal Roll for Arthur H Batten shows that he was awarded the Victory and British medals.

Remembered with Honour at St.James Cemetery,Taunton.

6 Mark BOARD Sapper 284610

Royal Engineers (Transportation Branch) (The name was originally on the memorial but has not been included on the replacement plaque)

The son of Francis and Emily Board of Upcott, Bishops Hull, and the 1911 census shows Mark to be 18 years old and a Groom; he is one of thirteen children. He joined up 17 November 1915 at the age of 21 years 8 months, discharged “no longer physically fit for war service” on 25 April 1919, 100% disabled due to TB he died 23 October 1919.

7 Harry CARPENTER Private 43721

8th. Bn. Princess Charlotte of Wales’s (Royal Berkshire Regiment)

Harry, born in Bishops Hull in 1896 one of ten children to Frederick and Emily Carpenter and in 1911 living at 3 Mountway (Lane), Bishops Hull.

The Medal Roll for Harry Carpenter shows that he was awarded the Victory and British medals.

Harry died 5th November 1918 (Commonwealth War Graves)

The Roll of Honour in the Somerset County Gazette of 16 November 1918 has him dying on 29 October 1918 at No.1 Presbyterian (USA) General Hospital, France, from pneumonia, following an attack of influenza.

Remembered with Honour at Etretat Churchyard Extension.

Etretat is a small seaside town about 16 miles north of Le Havre.

Somerset County Gazette 2 January 1915

Bishops Hull Soldier Under Fire A Narrow Escape

We append extracts from a letter sent by Pte C Carpenter, of the Army Service Corps, to his sister, Miss Annie Carpenter, 11 Mountway, Bishops Hull, Taunton. Pte Carpenter is one of six brother all on active service, and his father recently received a letter from the King tendering his congratulations. He writes:- “I received your letter and the photo quite safely and was glad to hear from you all. I see that Bill has enlisted. Tell father he will be able to join the ‘five footers’ now. There won’t be many young chaps left in Bishops Hull now. I got a little ------at ------but I am better now. My horse had five holes in him and the kit on the cart was knocked to pieces, so you will see I had a very narrow escape. Five men and one officer were killed, and I can tell you we had to race for it up a big hill. My chum, who was riding with me on the cart was hit, knocked off, and killed and my other chum has not been seen since. We cannot learn any news of him. Your loving brother, Charley.” The letter was written on Sunday the 20th December.

8 Somerset County Gazette 17 April 1915

Father and six sons serving Unique Somerset record

In the late Autumn we drew the attention of his Majesty the King to the remarkable patriotic record of Mr & Mrs F Carpenter of 3 Mountway, Bishops Hull, Taunton who had no less than six sons serving in his majesty’s forces. Mr & Mrs Carpenter received the Kings acknowledgement of loyalty of which they are pardonably proud. Mr Carpenter was a member of the National Reserve and this work he has left Taunton for an unknown destination with his company. The fact of a father and six sons on active service is we believe, a record for this county. Fred and William Carpenter are attached to the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, Walter and Frank are members of the First Battalion Somerset Light Infantry and George and Harry are in the Army Service Corps.

Somerset County Gazette 24 April 1915

Mr W Blatchford, Head Master of Bishops Hull Council School has received the following letter from Private F Carpenter of the Maxim Gun Section of the 1st Somerset Light Infantry. I am writing on behalf of the Somerset Machine Gun section to thank you and the scholars of Bishops Hull School for a small box of chocolates which we received on April 15th. I need hardly say how we all appreciate the little gift. I feel it my duty to thank them as an old boy of the school. I also have a brother and many relations attending at present. It is not the value of the gift that touches the fellows out here it is the thought of knowing who it is from and to think that even the little children are doing their best for us. We all wish you and the youngsters the best of health and every success. Will you kindly thank them for us.

9 Alfred James CAVILL Private 3/7264

6th.Bn. Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)

Alfred one of five children born to William and Elizabeth Cavill, of Bishops Hull, Taunton, Somerset, the 1911 census shows William and Elizabeth living at 4 Myrtle Cottages, Bishops Hull. In 1910 Alfred married Bessie Sprouting and by the 1911 census they are living at 2 Park Road, Yeovil. Alfred enlisted in 1915 at Yeovil and he was killed in action 17th September 1915. The Medal Roll for Alfred J Cavill shows that he was killed in Action and that he was awarded the Victory, British and 15 Star. The Commonwealth War Graves, records Alfred as the husband of Bessie Timbrell (formerly Cavill), of 34, Coronation Rd., Gilfach Goch, Bridgend.

Remembered with Honour at Ypres Reservoir Cemetery.

Leper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.

10 Henry William George CRIDGE Sapper 94255

Royal Engineers 130th.Field Coy

The 1911 census shows Henry as a Brickmaker by trade and living at 7 New Road, Bishops Hull with his wife Lucy and daughter Doris. Henry the eldest son of Henry and Sarah Jane Cridge, their address being 3 Florence Terrace, New Road, Bishops Hull, they had nine children. The Taunton Courier 21 June 1916 in reporting his death states that: “He had a wife and three children living at Galmington. He was Captain of the Taunton Harriers Club for two years. He won many valuable prizes, including the four mile championship, and the medal as runner-up in the championship of the West of . Prior to enlisting at Shepherds Bush, Middx in April 1915 he was employed on the GWR in London. In conveying the sad news of his death to his relatives Lieut Musgrave of the RE says: He was killed by a shell which laid low two of his comrades beside him. It will, I feel sure, be some consolation to you to know that he suffered no pain at all.”

The Medal Roll for Henry W G Cridge shows that he was awarded the Victory, British and 15 Star medals; he was killed in action 21st May 1916.

In 1916 his wife, Lucy is shown to be living at 8 The Row, Galmington.

Remembered with Honour at Ecoivres Military Cemetery, Mont-St. Eloi.

Mont-St. Eloi is a village in the Department of the Pas-de-Calais, 5 miles north-west of Arras. Ecoivres is a hamlet lying at the foot of the hill, to the south-west and about 1 mile from Mont-St. Eloi.

There is also a memorial in St. Michael’s Church, Galmington.

11 James CROSSMAN (The name was originally on the memorial but has not been included on the replacement plaque)

Stoker 1st.Class SS/100401

HMS “Goliath”

James Thomas was born at Nowshere, India, 12th September 1876.

He married Alice Arbery in 1904 and the 1911 census shows the family to be living at 27 St.Johns Cottages, Bishops Hull Within.

The Somerset County Gazette 29th May 1915 reported the following:

Mrs. Crossman of 13 Mountway, Bishops Hull, Taunton has received an intimation from the Admiralty that her husband Jas.T.Crossman who was a First Class Stoker on HMS Goliath which was sunk on the 13th inst. went down with his ship. The late Stoker Crossman first joined the Army and saw considerable service in India and in various parts of the globe. Afterwards he spent seven years in the Navy and for another seven years had been a Naval Reservist. He was thirty-eight years of age; he leaves three children, the oldest being ten years of age. Mrs Crossman’s home was at 27 Tangier, Taunton but she is now residing with her mother at Mountway, Bishops Hull.

Remembered with Honour at Plymouth Naval Memorial.

12 William GILL Lance Corporal 8613 (The inscription on the memorial shows him as a Lt Colonel)

Somerset Light Infantry 8th.Btn.

William born about 1889 the son of Alice Daley (formerly Gill). The census returns for 1891 and 1901 show William to be living with his grandparents Richard and Caroline Gill at Mountway, Bishops Hull. His mother Alice in 1911 is shown to be living at Galmington.

William in 1911 is with the 1st Btn Somerset Light Infantry stationed at Dorchester.

He is reported as being wounded 26th April 1916 and died of his wounds 22nd November 1916 aged 27.

Remembered with Honour at St Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen.

Percy John GRAY Air Mechanic 1st Class 219793

Royal Naval Air Service (R.N.A.S) 214th.Sqdn

Percy the eldest son of Henry and Sarah Gray living at Hamwood Terrace, Bishops Hull in 1911. He joined the R.N.A.S in 1916, and was for a time at the Crystal Palace, afterwards proceeding to an air station in the Isle of Thanet. He went to France in 1917, and was killed by a bomb at Dunkirk on June 6th 1918. He married Gladys Evans in 1917, one child, Joan was born 1917.

(details from County Gazette 22nd June 1918)

Remembered with Honour at Dunkirk Town Cemetery.

13 Edward JEWELL (The name was originally on the memorial but has not been included on the replacement plaque)

Private 39795

Royal Army Medical Corps “A” Sect 32nd Field Amb.

Born in 1895 the son of Henry and Mary, the 1911 census shows that he was one of four children; the address is given as Galmington.

He died aged 20 on the 17th August 1915.

Remembered with Honour at Helles Memorial, Turkey.

The Helles Memorial stands on the tip of the Gallipoli Peninsula. It takes the form of an obelisk over 30 metres high that can be seen by ships passing through the Dardanelles.

There is also a memorial in St. Michael’s Church, Galmington

Henry John JEWELL (The name does not appear on the memorial)

Private 39796

Royal Army Medical Corps “A” Sect 32nd.Field Amb.

Born in 1894 the son of Henry and Mary, the 1911 census shows that he was one of four children; the address is given as Galmington.

He died aged 21 on the 17th August 1915.

Remembered with Honour at Helles Memorial, Turkey.

The Helles Memorial stands on the tip of the Gallipoli Peninsula. It takes the form of an obelisk over 30 metres high that can be seen by ships passing through the Dardanelles.

There is also a memorial in St. Michael’s Church, Galmington.

14 Edward and Henry JEWELL

An abridged transcription from the Gazette of 19th May 1917 (p3):-

"Mr and Mrs H Jewell, of Galmington, Taunton, have suffered a very heavy bereavement in the loss of two of their sons, Privates Harry and Edward Jewell of the RAMC, who were killed in action at the Dardanelles on August 17th. Old boys of Bishops Hull Council School and for some years Scouts of the Wilton troop, the two lads were well known and respected both at Galmington and Bishops Hull. Mr Blatchford, head master of Bishops Hull School, assured Mrs Jewell that they were two of his best boys, and that the school would always be proud of their great sacrifice. They joined the RAMC on the 8th September last, and were sent to Ireland for the first part of their training. Subsequently they were at Basingstoke and Devonport, and on the 15th July they were sent out to the Dardanelles, landing there on 7th August. They were attached to the 32nd Field Ambulance and members of C Section and during their brief experience of active service they saw some of the fiercest of fighting against the Turks.

Prior to enlisting, Private Harry Jewell was employed by his grandfather and uncle (Messrs Jewell and Son of Galmington) and the younger brother was in the employ of Mrs Pulman of Bishops Hull, and was formerly in the service of Captain Kinglake. They joined the scouts in their school days, when scouting was first started in Taunton and remained in the Wilton troop until they entered the Army. Their last service as Scouts was to help to guard the railway line in August of last year, following the outbreak of war. The sad news of their death was first received from Private HJ Oaten, of the RAMC, a nephew of Mrs Jewell, whose parents also live in Galmington. Lieut-Colonel H Lander, the officer commanding the 32nd Field Ambulance, wrote on August 29th as follows: - “It is with extreme regret that I have to report the deaths of your two sons on the 17th inst., when nobly performing their duty. The party which they were with suffered heavily, as they got in front of our lines and under aerial fire from the Turks at close range. Your youngest son was the first to be hit, and your other son, seeing him fall, ran back, but finding his brother dead he rejoined, only to be hit himself very shortly afterwards. You have every reason to be proud of your boys. They were noble fellows, beloved by all in my unit, and feared not death when faced and surrounded by the enemy."

15 Edgar KING Private 11129

9th. Devonshire Regiment

Edgar youngest of four children the son of Thomas and Mary King he attended Bishops Hull Council School having formerly lived at Hamwood Cottages, Bishops Hull. Edgar was employed in Minehead before the war and living at 17 Summerlands Ave, Minehead. He joined the Army in September 1914 and was killed in action during the capture of Mametz, Somme 1st July 1916.

Remembered with Honour at Devonshire Cemetery, Mametz.

16 Frederick MATTRAVERS L/Cpl Ply/8256

Royal Marine Light Infantry HMS “Indefatigable”

Frederick one of twelve children born to Mark and Elizabeth Mattravers of Longaller, Bishops Hull. His date of birth, shown on the Maritime Death Index, is given as 29th March 1878 he is registered as Fred. The census returns for 1891 show that the family are living at Hele Cottage. The 1901 census shows Fred as a Private in the RML as a crew member on HMS Lion, a training ship at Devonport. In 1911 Fred is a Royal Marine lodging at St.Aubyn, Devonport.

The Royal Marine Medal Roll shows that he was awarded the 1914-15, victory and British Medals.

Fred was killed in action at the battle of Jutland 31st May 1916 aged 38, he was unmarried.

HMS Indefatigable was sunk by the German Battlecruiser Von der Tann.

Remembered with Honour at Plymouth Naval Memorial.

17 Ian Vaughan Bremridge MELHUISH (The inscription on the memorial shows him as Jan not Ian) 2nd.Lieutenant (Temp)

Somerset Light Infantry 7th.Btn.

Son of John and Ada Melhuish the 1901 census shows him to be 8 years old living with his parents at Clevedon; he was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. In 1911 he is a Boarder at Bromsgrove Grammar School, Worcs.

Letters sent home have survived and are now deposited in the Somerset Heritage Centre, Taunton.

They are addressed to his mother living at “Greenlands” Comeytrowe.

Killed in action, shot by a sniper, in the Laventie Sector of French Flanders, 27th October 1915. Remembered with Honour at Rue-Du-Baequerot, 13th. London Graveyard, Laventie, Pas de Calais.

Walter PERRY Private 27703

Somerset Light Infantry 1st Btn (Formerly 1209 W.Som Yeomanry)

Walter son of Job and Emily living at Galmington the 1911 census shows that Walter was one of seven children.

He was killed in action 22nd January 1918 aged 20 his address is shown as 6 Court, Shuttern, Taunton.

Remembered with Honour at Monchy British Cemetery, Monchy-Le-Preux, Pas de Calais.

There is also a memorial in St. Michael’s Church, Galmington.

18 Sydney Edward PETERS L/Cpl 410 (Also shown as Sergeant)

1st.West Somerset Yeomanry

Sydney the only child of Edward P and Annie C Peters of The Cottage, Wellington Road, Taunton, born October 1891 in Bishops Hull. The 1911 census return shows Sydney living with his parents at Parsonage Farm, Bishops Hull. He enlisted in Taunton and died 15th Aug 1915 aged 23.

The Western Daily Press, August 19th. Reports his funeral:

Military Funeral at Taunton – The Late Sergeant Peters, West Somerset Yeomanry.

An impressive military funeral was witnessed at Taunton yesterday, when Sergt. Sydney Peters of the 1st. West Somerset Yeomanry was buried at St.Mary’s cemetery, following a service at the parish church, Bishops Hull. There was a very large and representative attendance, the deceased having been exceedingly popular in the district, and amongst those present were members of the Taunton Vale Harriers and the Taunton and West Somerset Farmers Club. A large contingent of Yeomanry of Sergt Peter’s own regiment came down from Tendring, Essex, under the command of Lieut. Hill. The bugle band of the West Somerset National Reserve was in attendance. The coffin which was covered with the Union Jack bore the inscription, “Sydney Edward Peters died August 15, 1915 R.I.P”.

19 From the Gazette of August 21 1915:

"Well known as the son of a popular Somerset agriculturalist. Before the War he had been farming with his father, and also had a holding of his own adjoining Parsonage Farm. In the village and neighbourhood he had a host of friends, and as captain of the Bishops Hull Cricket Club he showed his keen interest in sport and healthy recreation. For about a month during June and July Sergt. Peters was at home in Taunton, having been sent down from Essex to help drill recruits at the Territorial Depot. Then he returned to Tendring and within a fortnight contracted a serious form of blood poisoning the effects of which in a very short time proved fatal. Whilst very unwell he undertook the long and trying journey to Taunton and his condition on reaching home gave his parents cause for grave apprehension. He had to take to his bed at once, and every effort to save his life notwithstanding, he passed away on Sunday evening." "The internment was preceded by the procession to the cemetery from the old parish church on the hill, where the first part of the simple and beautiful burial office was conducted. Carried by brother NCOs of the regiment the body was reverently borne from the farm to the church, the whole of the mourners following on foot, it being only a very short distance. While the congregation was assembling Mr WR Dyer, the organist, played 'O Rest in the Lord'. The service was conducted by the vicar, the Rev. GFO Raban, assisted by the Rev PC Wyndham Earee, rector of Angersleigh.

After the reading of the lesson, the hymn 'Peace, perfect peace' was sung, and as the coffin, which was covered with the Union Jack, and with beautiful floral tributes from the bereaved family, was carried from the church, the organist played the 'Dead March'. The coffin, which was of polished elm, bore the inscription: "Sydney Edward Peters, born October 25 1891, died August 15 1915, RIP'. The family mourners were: Mr FP Peters (father), Mr and Mrs ED Fraser, Reading, Mr and Mrs JG Fraser, Great Marlow (uncles and aunts), Mr Burton Morris, Cardiff, Mr Charles Morris, St Albans, Mr John Morris, Conquest, Mr Frank Morris, , and Mr Edwin Morris, Doniford (uncles), Mr Gordon Skinner, , Mr Herbert Skinner, Calcutta and Sergeant Howard Skinner (cousins), Mr HR Fraser, Reading, and Mr Tom Pidsley, Exeter. The 1st West Somerset Yeomanry was represented by a large contingent from Tendring, with Lieutenant Hill in command and Warrant Officer Webb in charge of the firing party. The funeral arrangements were satisfactorily carried out by Messrs Hatcher and Sons Ltd, of Taunton, and wreaths were supplied by Mr F Adams and Messrs WE and T Cousins of Taunton".

Remembered with Honour at St.Mary’s Cemetery, Wellington Road, Taunton.

20 Edgar Charles PRATT Private 7941

Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry 1st.Btn.

The son of George and Sarah Pratt, one of six children the 1911 census shows that they are living at 4 Florence Terrace, Bishops Hull. Edgar is a Labourer on the railway working for the GWR.

In 1912 Edgar marries Annie Mabel Hayman and they are living at Swingbridge, Bathpool, Taunton. A daughter Doris was born in 1913; she married Ernest Gillett in 1940.

Edgar was killed in action, shot by a German sniper, 12th May 1915.

The Gazette of June 5 1915 includes the following: "He was in the Reserve of the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry when war was declared, and at once joined his regiment and proceeded to the Front, where he has been on active service ever since. He leaves a widow and one child."

Remembered with Honour at Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

21 Albert Thomas PUGSLEY Driver 620099

Royal Horse Artillery 18th.Bde.

Albert the elder son of Thomas and Elizabeth A Pugsley living at Woodlands, Rumwell, Bishops Hull.

The County Gazette 22nd June 1918:-

“He joined the R.H.A. (Territorials) some time before the war, and in August, 1914, went with the battery to the East Coast. In 1916 he was in Egypt, and subsequently took part in the various actions in Palestine up to the capture of Jerusalem, going through without a scratch. About a fortnight ago his parents received notice to the effect that he was at Cairo dangerously ill, and he died in that city on June 7th of enteric fever. He was only 22. Previous to the war he was working at Newton’s.”

Died of Enteritis 7th June 1918 aged 22.

Remembered with Honour at Cairo War Memorial Cemetery. There is also a memorial in Bishops Hull Church.

22 Richard Bassett Cockburn RABAN Lieut.-Colonel

1st. Lancers (Attached 13th.Royal Scots)

The Western Daily Press, Bristol, Monday May 22, 1916 reported the death:

“Lieut.-Colonel Richard Bassett Cockburn Raban, eldest son of the late Rev.R.C.W.Raban, vicar of Bishop’s Hull, and brother of the present vicar, the Rev. George F.C.Raban, has been killed in action in France. The news was conveyed to the Rev.G.F.C.Raban by the following telegram: - “Deeply regret to state your brother, Lieut.-Colonel R.B.C.Raban, 1st.Lancers, attached 13th.Royal Scots, officially reported killed in action 12th May. Mr Secretary Chamberlain desires to express sincere sympathy with you in loss of this gallant officer.” Colonel Raban, was born at Clifton on May 20, 1881, and was educated at Temple Grove, East Sheen, and Malvern College, whence he passed, when only 17, direct into Sandhurst. He passed fourth in the list of successes at Sandhurst, and was commissioned to the Somerset Light Infantry in January, 1900. Three years later he joined the Indian Army, and was appointed to the 1st.Duke of York’s Own Lancers. At the Delhi Durbar in 1911 he had the honour of being appointed one of four aides-de-camp to the King Emperor, and received, besides the Durbar medal, a diamond pin from his Majesty. He accompanied the King and Queen to Bombay, and upon their departure they presented him with a signed framed photograph of themselves. In 1914 he passed into the Indian Staff College at Quetta. Shortly after the outbreak of war he was selected to accompany a squadron of native troops to France, and some months later he responded to the call of the Government to volunteer for British regiments to fill up the gaps caused by heavy losses.”

Remembered with Honour at Vermelles British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France.

All Indian Army Quarterly List for 1 January 1912

Surname: Raban Given Name: R.B.C. FIRST COMM: 20 Jan. 00 DATE RANK: 20 Jan. 09 RANK: Capt. COMPANY: 1st. Duke of York's Own Lancers [Skinner's Horse.] REMARKS: Squadron Officers--Adjt. , 1 Oct. 08 Page #: 260

23 Arthur John Henry ROBINSON L/Cpl 505916

(West Somerset Yeomanry 1026) (Somerset Light Infantry 7th Btn) Royal Engineers, 54th. Light Railway Operating Coy

Arthur enlisted in Taunton 7th September 1914. The son of John and Annie Robinson and the husband of Millicent May Robinson of 7 Shutewater Hill, Bishops Hull they married 12th July 1916.

The Attestation papers survive for Arthur; they are part of The National Archives “Burnt Documents” series. His papers show that on enlistment he was aged 20yrs 10mo and he was 5 foot 9 inches tall, and Fit for service. His service shows the following: Home 7.9.1914 to 22.9.1915. Med Exp Fce 23.9.1915 to 25.1.1916. Home 26.1.1916 to 3.1.1917 B.E.F France 4.1.1917 to 12.6.1918.

Newspaper report:- Enlisted September 1914 and after being on the East Coast for some months proceeded with his regiment to Suvia Bay, where he contracted eneric fever on November 10th, and returned to England on January 26th. He is now in hospital at Birmingham. The Somerset Gazette dated 22nd June 1918 reports:- Mrs. Robinson, of Shutewater Hill, Bishops Hull, this week received notice of the death of her husband, Lance-Corpl.A.J.Robinson, R.E. In a kindly letter to the widow, the Lieutenant commanding the company said that the sad event “occurred on the night of the 12th inst. by explosion of shell, when he was endeavouring to render assistance to a wounded comrade. The very act in which he met his death was a splendid example of self-sacrifice, having the utter disregard for danger.”

Died of wounds (accidental) 12th June 1918.

Remembered with Honour at Bac-du-Sud British Cemetery.

Bailleulval is a village in the Department of the Pas-de-Calais about 8 miles south-west of Arras.

24 Arthur John Henry ROBINSON – Attestation, Casualty forms

25 John Geoffrey SMERDON 2nd. Lieutenant

3rd. (Reserve) Btn. Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)

John is the son of William Richard and Marian Edith Smerdon, living at Dinham House, Upcott, Bishops Hull. John was born 14th April 1893 at Plymstock, Devon one of six children born to William and Marian. Educated at Huish Grammar School, Taunton. He joined the West Somerset Yeomanry in May 1909; he retired after four years service. On the outbreak of war he rejoined as a Sergt in September 1914, he was appointed Instructor of Yeomanry recruits and served with the Expeditionary Force in France and Flanders from 22nd September 1916. He was transferred to the Somerset Light Infantry and took part in the battle of the Somme. On his return to England, January 1917 he applied for a Commission, he was Gazetted 2nd Lieut 3rd Btn Somerset Light Infantry the following June. Joining his regiment in France in August he was then attached to the 2/5th.Btn. The Lancashire Fusiliers and was killed in action on 20th September 1917 at the battle of Menin Road while in temporary command of his Company. He was buried where he fell. Remembered with Honour at Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. There is also a memorial in Bishops Hull Church.

The memorial (brass plaque on oak) in Bishops Hull church reads:- "IN PROUD AND LOVING MEMORY OF JOHN GEOFFREY MERDON, 2ND LIEUT/ SOMERSET LIGHT INFANTRY (ATTACHED LANCASHIRE FUSILIERS), KILLED/ IN ACTION WHILST LEADING HIS COMPANY AT THE BATTLE OF MENIN/ ROAD SEPT 20 1917, AGED 24 YEARS

26 Charles Edgar Holton SMITH Captain

Royal Army Medical Corps (Attd. to the 10th./11th. Btn Highland Light Infantry)

Charles the eldest son, one of six children born to Charles and Ellen Smith of Milligan Hall, Bishops Hull. He married at Cheltenham in 1912 to Ethel Bertha Terry and lived at 5 Evelyn Court, Cheltenham.

Gazette issue 29584: His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to grant unrestricted permission for the wearing of the decoration of The Order of St.Sava, 5th.Class, in recognition of distinguished services during the campaign. The decoration conferred by his Majesty the King of Serbia on members of the Royal army Medical Corps mission to Serbia, March to June 1915.

He was killed in action 16th September 1916 aged 32.

Remembered with Honour at Adanal Military Cemetery, Miraumont.

Miraumont is a village about 9 miles north-north-east of Albert and the Cemetery is some 2 miles south of the village.

27 Charles STRICKLAND Private 15590

Somerset Light Infantry 1st.Bdn

Note: Army records show his surname as Strickland, birth and census records show the name as Stickland.

Charles born at Bishops Hull, (possibly Shutewater Hill). He enlisted in Taunton and was killed in action 3rd May 1917; the Commonwealth War Graves records show that he was the son of Mr & Mrs Strickland (possibly Arthur and Rose) of Victoria Place, High Street, Taunton.

The medal rolls show that he was awarded Victory, British and 15 Star medals.

Remembered with Honour at the Arras Memorial

The Arras Memorial is in the Faubourg-d'Amiens Cemetery, which is in the Boulevard du General de Gaulle in the western part of the town of Arras.

There is also a memorial in St. Michael’s Church, Galmington.

28 Christopher Edward SWAIN Gunner 109721

Royal Field Artillery 105th.Bty 22nd.Bde

The 1901 census shows that Christopher is the son of Sarah and Richard Swain and they are living in Alma Street, Taunton. His brother Richard is also shown on the census. In the 1911 census he is shown as a Railway Worker, aged 23, lodging at Mexbrough, Yks. Killed in action 28th October 1917.

Remembered with Honour at The Huts Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.

Richard John SWAIN Private 8612

Duke of Cornwall Light Infantry 2nd.Btn.

The Commonwealth War Graves shows Richard as the son of Sarah Ann and Richard John Swain of Bradford on Tone. The 1901 census return shows him to be living with his parents in Alma Street, Taunton along with his brother, Christopher.

He enlisted at Portsmouth, and the 1911 census shows him to be stationed with his regiment at Tempe Bloomfontein, Orange Free State, South Africa. He died of his wounds in France 17th May 1915 aged 29.

The Medal Roll shows that he was awarded the 15 Star, Victory and British medals.

Remembered with Honour at Boulogne Eastern Cemetery.

Boulogne-sur-Mer is a large Channel port. Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, one of the town cemeteries, lies in the district of St Martin Boulogne, just beyond the eastern (Chateau) corner of the Citadel (Haute-Ville).

29 Arthur Sholto TROTT M.M. Private 1002

Rhodesia Regiment 2nd Btn.

(Army Service Corps) (Boy Soldier 20616)

Arthur was born in Quetta, India in 1888 as were his four siblings to William Henry and Emily Trott; William was serving in the 29th. (Worcestershire) Regiment of Foot. Arthur enlisted as a Boy Soldier aged 14 years and 11months at Taunton in February1903 the Attestation papers survive he is described as 4 foot 11inches, Blue eyes, Brown hair. He was transferred to the Ranks at the age of 18; he is then recorded as Deserted, October 1907. In 1908 he has rejoined and awaiting Trial, August 1908. On his own request he is discharged on payment of £18. On his Service papers his parents address is given as The Post Office, Bishops Hull a later address has been added this being Ladysmith Villa, Bishops Hull. The 1911 census shows his father to be the Postmaster at Bishops Hull. In 1914, at the outbreak of World War I, the 1st and 2nd Rhodesia Regiments were formed. The 1st Rhodesians saw service in German South West Africa alongside the South African forces, and in 1915 embarked at Cape Town for the , where members of the Regiment were subsequently dispersed to the King's Royal Rifle Corps. The 2nd Rhodesians were forced to return to Rhodesia in 1917, due to the high ratio of casualties suffered in action in German East Africa. The Military Medal was awarded to Arthur Sholto Trott for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty, all the Officers of his Company having become casualties during an attack, he took command of the Company and with sound judgement and great persistence consolidated the line under heavy fire, he set a magnificent example to his men. Conferment of the medal was announced in the London Gazette and Arthur Sholto Trott earned the right to add the letters M.M. to his name. He was also awarded the Victory and British medals.

He was killed in action 19th February 1917 aged 27. The Commonwealth War Graves gives his parents address is given as 2 South View, Trull.

Remembered with Honour at Cape Town (Maitland) Cemetery.

30 Archibald Charles Mark WALSH Lieutenant

Royal Horse Artillery

The son of Henry Alfred Walsh, Colonel (Retired) of Hillmore, Bishops Hull. Archibald was born 3rd February 1892 and baptised at Compton Gifford, Devon 9th March 1892. The 1911 census shows that he is a Gentleman Cadet with the Royal Artillery at Woolwich aged 19. He died of his wounds 18th March 1915.

The Western Daily Press dated 24th March 1915 reports the following: “The first funeral at Taunton, with full military honours, of a Somerset officer who has fallen in the war, was that of the late Lieut. Archibald C.M. Walsh, of the Royal Horse Artillery. The gallant young officer was the son of Colonel Walsh C.B. of Hillmore, Bishops Hull, Taunton, and his death occurred in hospital in London, on the 18th.inst. from severe wounds received at Neuve Chapelle, on the 11th.inst. The body was brought from London to Taunton by train, and was borne on a gun carriage, drawn by six horses, to Bishops Hull church. The coffin was covered with the Union Jack. In the procession from the church to the cemetery the gun carriage was preceded by a firing party of forty men of the Somerset Light Infantry from Taunton Depot, commanded by Major Walsh at the cemetery the final honours were paid, three volleys being fired and the Last Post sounded.”

Probate Records exist; these show that he died 18th March 1915 at Sussex Lodge, Regents Park, Middlesex.

31 Remembered with Honour at St.Mary’s Cemetery, Taunton.

Archibald Charles Mark Father: Henry Alfred Walsh

32 Walter WARE (Possibly 74688 Royal Fusiliers) (The name was originally on the memorial but has not been included on the replacement plaque)

The son of Samuel and Frances Ware of Galmington, born about 1899. (There is a Birth registration Taunton 2nd Quarter 1899) Walter appears on the 1901 and 1911 census returns, one of seven children.

No further information has been found.

There is also a memorial in St. Michael’s Church, Galmington.

Reginald WEAVER Gunner 14792

Royal Field Artillery “X” 51st T.M. Bty.

The son of Thomas and Elizabeth Weaver of 12 New Road, Bishops Hull, Reginald was one of eleven children born to Elizabeth and Thomas. The 1901 census shows that he was born at , his birth registration in 1895 records him as Reginald Edward Weaver.

From the Gazette 9th September 1916 - He joined the Army six months before the outbreak of war. Before enlisting he was employed at the Hotel Metropole hunting stables, Minehead. He was an old boy of Bishops Hull Council School. Lieut. G Aldgwood reported "He was killed on July 27th, about 2am, and death was caused by suffocation. The battery was in reserve about two miles from the Bosches and they shelled the valley in which they were with small gas shells from 10pm until about 3am. Our gas helmets were put on, and at intervals one of our men would go out to see if the others were alright. On one of these inspections the man found Weaver's dug out blown in and only his feet were visible. He was dug out as quickly as possible, but was quite dead. He was not wounded, but suffocated by the fall of earth. He must have died within three or four minutes. Another fellow, Gunner Pocock, shared the same fate. My dug out was blown in on the same evening, but luckily I was not inside it. Weaver was a good lad, and was smart indeed when in action."

The Medal Roll shows that he was awarded the Victory, British and 14 Star medals.

Remembered with Honour at Thiepval Memorial, Thiepval, Somme.

33 Reginald WEBBER (He is recorded on the Memorial as Reginald) He is recorded on the Memorial Board in the Church, in the County Book of Remembrance and in the County Gazette as:

Harry Webber Private 24192

2nd. /5th. Btn. Somerset Light Infantry

A Service Number of 241922 in the CWGC records Henry George Webber

The 1901 census shows Harry Webber aged 14 born North Petherton, his occupation being a Carpenter living at home with his parents Thomas and Elizabeth.

The 1911 census shows Henry George Webber, aged 26 born Bridgwater, his occupation being a Carpenter, with his wife Bessie (nee Millett) living at Laurel Villas, Bishops Hull, he married Bessie in 1908. The Commonwealth War Graves show Henry George Webber died in India 22nd January 1919.

Remembered with Honour at Calcutta (Bhowanipore) Cemetery, India.

The conclusion is that the name Reginald on the Memorial has been recorded incorrectly when the new plaque was made. That Harry and Henry are one and the same person.

34 Herbert George WILKINS Private 16890

Somerset Light Infantry 8th.Btn.

Herbert the youngest son of Tom and Mary Wilkins of Hamwood Cottages, Bishops Hull, born 1888 in Taunton. He joined the Somerset Light Infantry in December 1914, he had been in France since last September (1915). He was killed in action 1st July 1916.

Previous to enlisting he was a butler in the employ of Rose Rawlins of the Manor House, Bishops Hull.

The Medal Roll shows he was awarded the Victory, British and 15 Star medals.

Remembered with Honour at Thiepval Memorial, Thiepval, Somme.

Clarence WINN Private 16618

Somerset Light Infantry 1st.Btn

The 1911 census shows Clarence to be living with his Grandmother Sarah at Wheeton Cottage, Bishops Hull he is a Farm Labourer, born at Bishops Hull in 1895.

He was killed in action 1st July 1916. The Commonwealth War Graves records him as the son of Kerslake and Blanche Winn of Somerset Place, Taunton.

The Medal Roll shows that he was awarded the Victory, British and 15 Star medals.

Remembered with Honour at Thiepval Memorial, Thiepval, Somme.

35 Stanley WOOD Private 25887

Somerset Light Infantry 1st.Btn

Stanley the son of William and Alice Wood of 7 Florence Terrace, Bishops Hull.

He died of his wounds 19th May 1918.

The Medal Roll shows that he was awarded the Victory and British Medals.

Remembered with Honour at Pernes British Cemetery.

Pernes-en-Artois is a small town on the main road from Lillers to St. Pol. Pas de Calais.

There is also a memorial in St. Michael’s Church, Galmington.

36 The following names appear on a Memorial Board in the Parish Church of St.Peter and St.Paul, Bishops Hull, the board is located at the west end of the nave. ( + denotes those men that died)

IN HONOUR OF THE MEN OF THIS PARISH WHO SERVED IN THE GREAT WAR 1914-1918

ADAMS Edward HAWKINS Wilfred ALLEN + Harry HEDFORD Sidney ALLEN Oliver KELLOW Thomas ANNING Fred LEWIS Fred ANNING Percy LOOSEMORE Leonard ANNING Ernest LYON Claud Lt Col AVIS Charles MANLEY Francis BAKER Cyril MATTRAVERS + Fred BAKER Leslie MATTRAVERS Henry BASTARD + Stafford McEVANSONEYA George BASTARD Seager MELHUISH + Ian BATTEN Henry MERSON Percy BATTEN + Arthur NASH Sidney BEALE Frederick NEWTON Samuel BELLAMY Frank OATEN David BEVIS Tom O'SHEA John BLACKMORE Percy PAYNE Walter BLEW William PAVEY James BOARD William PETERS + Sydney BOARD Harry PHILBEY George BOARD Mark PRATT Ernest BOARD Bertie POCOCK Tom BOARD Harry PRING Lewis BOARD William PRING Frank BODGER James PRING Herbert BOND John PUGSLEY Albert BOND Walter PUGSLEY Clifford BULL Edwin PYNE Samuel BURNELL Percy RABAN + Bassett BURROWS Harry ROBINSON + Arthur CARPENTER Fred (Snr) ROBINSON Cecil CARPENTER Fred ROBINSON Reggie CARPENTER William ROOKE Commander CARPENTER George ROOTS Cyril CARPENTER Frank SAUNDERS Ernest CARPENTER + Harry SALWAY Robert CARPENTER Walter SALWAY Fred CARPENTER William (Snr) SHOPLAND William CARPENTER William SHOPLAND Arthur CAVILL Frank SHOPLAND Ernest CAVILL Henry SMERDON + Geoffrey 2nd.Lieut CHAFFREY Samuel SMERDON M.C. Graham Major CHAMBERS Thomas SMITH Tom CHANNER Mosley Lt Col STUCKEY Charles CHAPMAN John SUMMERHAYES Samuel CHAPMAN William SYMONS Arthur CHOWN Thomas SYMONS Fred COLES Edwin SYMONS George COMPTON BISHOP Henry TONG George COMPTON BISHOP Herbert TONG Bertie COMPTON BISHOP Percy TROTT M.M. Arthur COTTON Walter TUCKER William COWAN Percy Lieut TUCKER Walter COWAN Alec Capt TURNER Ernest CRIDGE Frederick WADHAM Percy CRIDGE Bertie WALSH Col COMER Harry WALSH + Archibald Lieut CROSSMAN + James WATTS John DODDEN Frederick WEAVER + Reginald DUDDRIDGE William WEAVER William FRY Richard Lieut WEAVER Bertie FRY William Capt WEBBER + Harry FURSDON Frederick WELCH Jess FORD John WHELLER Clifford GILL Nelson WILKINS Ernest GILL Robert WILKINS + Herbert GILL + William WOOD + Stanley GRATTON James WHALE Percy Capt GRAY + Percy GREED Henry GREGORY Frank GRIGG Edward 38 Where we have been able to locate information about the men that appear on the Memorial Board in the church we have included the details below:

BEVIS Tom (Thomas) – 1911 census aged 20 address given as Ritherdens Farm, Rumwell. The 1944 Kelly’s Directory shows the Bevis family still at Ritherdens Farm. Tom died in 1977 aged 87.

BODGER James (Edward James) – Service Record, Gunner 121156, RGA enlisted October 1916 a Miller by trade his address given as Longaller House, Bishops Hull, with his wife Ella Fanny (formerly Berry). James died in 1985 aged 94.

BURNELL Percy – 1911 census aged 15, address given as Roughmoor Cottages, Bishops Hull son of William and Emily. Percy died in 1961.

CARPENTER Fred (Frederick Charles) – Service Record, Private 7862 Duke of Cornwall LI enlisted in 1904 to 1906 and re-engaged in 1917 to 1919. Son of Frederick and Emily with brothers William and Frank listed he married Elsie Vickery 2nd July 1908. Fred died in 1936. (see Carpenter family on page 8)

CHAPMAN William (WH) – County Gazette, Private 6637 Somerset Light Infantry. Mrs J Chapman, of Barr Cottage, Bishops Hull has received information that her son has been posted as missing. Previous to enlisting, was employed by Mr Gregory, and was 21 years of age. He was wounded in April 1915, and returned to France at the end of the following June.

KELLOW Thomas (Edwin Henry Thomas) – Service Record, Driver 184375 RASL, born 1887, Carpenter by trade working for Spiller & Sons, Bridge Street, Taunton. Address given Laurel Villas, Bishops Hull, married Elsie Ellen Reed 1915 they had a son Harold Thomas born 1915.

McEVANSONEYA George – Service Record, Private 99465 Labour Corps, enlisted February 1916, aged 34 a Drapers Porter address given as 4 New Road, Bishops Hull, married Emma Court 20th May 1907, three children are listed, Cecil G b1908, Sidney b1912, Leslie J b1915. George was born in Truro and died in 1965 aged 83.

MERSON Percy (Samuel Percy) – 1911 census, aged 31 a bricklayer, address given as 4 Church Row, Bishops Hull the census shows that he had been married for 9 years to Louisa Elizabeth no children are recorded. Percy died in 1948 aged 68.

PHILBEY George – Service Record, Driver Private M335066 ASC MT, enlisted February 1916, aged 34, address given as Shute Cottages, Bishops Hull married Ann Waterfield in 1905 the service record lists four children – Annie b1906, George A b1909, Gladys M b1913, Amelia b1915.

39 SAUNDERS Ernest – 1911 census, aged 12, son of William and Mary address given as Barr Cottages, Bishops Hull. The 1944 Kelly’s Directory shows Ernest Saunders living at 3 Netherclay Terrace, Ernest died in 1958.

SHOPLAND William – Service Record, Private 139874 RASC, enlisted September 1915 and discharged May 1919. The son of William and Mary address given as 8 New Road, Bishops Hull.

SHOPLAND Arthur and Ernest the brothers of William.

STUCKEY Charles (Charles John) – Service Record, 8128 Machine Gun Corps enlisted 1918 aged 18. The address on enlistment is shown as , the 1911 census shows Charles at home aged 11 with his parents Charles and Sarah the address is Hamwood Terrace, Bishops Hull.

SUMMERHAYES Samuel – County Gazette 15th May 1915 reports S Summerhayes of Bishops Hull, Prisoner of War, Block 9/5 Gefangenen Lager, Doeberitz, Deutschland.

SYMONS Arthur – Service Record, Private 96374 Royal Berkshire Reg enlisted aged 36, Trade, Carter the address shown is 9 New Road, Bishops Hull. He married Mary Grinter 25th December 1899, three children are listed Henry Arthur b1902, William Henry b1904, Edith Mabel b1906.

TONG George (Edward George) – Service Record, Private R4/139718 ASC Remount Squadrons enlisted September 1915 aged 25 occupation Groom the son of Arthur Edward Tong, address shown as Red Lion Inn, Bishops Hull.

WELCH Jesse – Service Record, Private 4929 Somerset Light Infantry 4th Btn enlisted November 1915 aged 37 occupation Gardener born Corsham, address shown as 14 New Road, Bishops Hull. Discharged 1919

40 The following names are those that died in the Second World War 1939-1945, a Bronze Plaque bearing their names was added to the War Memorial in 1993.

Arthur Robert Checkley BARKER

Major 96431

Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

Formerly Somerset Light Infantry (Prince Albert’s)

Arthur was born in Bristol in about 1909 a son of Laurence Checkley and Mabel Sarah and husband of Sheila Barbara Barker of Rumwell Hill.

He died the 5th June 1943

Remembered with Honour at Taunton (St, Mary’s) Cemetery.

Francis Lewes BOND

Leading Aircraftsman 1221522

RAF Volunteer Reserve

Died, aged 25, from illness 5th May 1944

Son of Frank and Daphne Bond.

Remembered with Honour at Delhi War Cemetery.

41 Terence Frederick Thomas CHAMBERS

Captain 1A/1013

B Squadron 1st Special Air Service Regiment

Parent Unit 5th Maharatta Light Infantry Indian Army

Died, aged 27, in hospital of diptheric infection of desert sores 4th December 1942

He was the son of Thomas Smith and Edyth Chambers of Bishops Hull.

Remembered with Honour Fayid War Cemetery Egypt.

William David CLEMENTS

Captain P/63476

55th (West Somerset Yeomanry) Royal Artillery

Died, aged 29, of war related cause 27th March 1940

He was the son of Percy A and Mabel Clements of Stonegallows Hill

Remembered with Honour at Taunton (St. Mary’s) Churchyard.

42 Peter Geoffrey FARRANT

Lieutenant 179766

Somerset Light Infantry

attached to 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry

(151st Infantry Brigade 50th (Northumberland Division)

Killed, aged 24, in action 12th August 1944

He was the son of Geoffrey Upcott and Georgina Milne Farrant of Bishops Hull

Remembered with Honour Saint Manvieu War Cemetery,

Cheux. Calvados, Normandy.

Dennis John HOBBS

Navigator 1321379

460 RAAF Squadron Royal Air Force

No. 1 Group Bomber Command

Died during air operations over Germany 2nd December 1943.

460 Squadron RAAF was based at Binbrook, Lincolnshire from 14th May 1943 until 27th July 1945 and were operating Lancaster I and III.

On the night of the 2nd /3rd December 1943, 458 aircraft comprising 425 Lancasters, 18 Mosquitoes and 15 Halifax’s were dispatched to Berlin. 40 aircraft, 37 Lancasters, 2 Halifax’s and 1 Mosquito were lost. 460 Squadron lost 5 of its 25 Lancasters on the raid.

Next of kin not known.

Remembered with Honour Berlin 1939-1945 War Cemetery.

43 Albert George LEGGE

Able Seaman D/J43823 HMS Matabele Royal Navy

Died, aged 41, at sea on Saturday, 17th January 1942 when “Matabele”, a “Tribal Class” Escort Destroyer was torpedoed by U Boat U454 in the Barents Sea

He was the son of Charles and Mary Legge and the husband of Elsie Legge, of Bishops Hull, Taunton.

Remembered with Honour at Portsmouth Naval Memorial.

Geoffrey Norman Anthony William MALLALIEU

Major 77616

4th Battalion Somerset Light Infantry

(129th Infantry Brigade 43rd Wessex Division)

Killed, aged 26, in action 20th February 1945 during the Battle of the Reichswald.

He was born in India the son of Lt Col William and Dorothy Maud Mary Mallalieu husband of Patricia Mallilieu, of Taunton.

Prior to the war he was living at Netherclay House, Bishops Hull.

Remembered with Honour at Reichswald Forest War Cemetery,

Kleve, Germany.

44 Paul SIBLEY

Sapper 2074593

672 Artisan Works Company Royal Engineers

Died, aged 38, 19th July 1943.

He was born in Northamptonshire the son of Ernest Edward and Annie Elizabeth Sibley of Taunton.

Remembered with Honour at Norton Fitzwarren (All Saints) Churchyard.

North of the Church.

Charles STARK

Lance Corporal 5676775

2nd Battalion Somerset light Infantry (28th Infantry Brigade 4th Division)

Killed in action 12th May 1944 during “Operation Diadem” the Eighth Army crossing of the Rapido and assault on the Gustav Line and the drive through the Liri valley north of Rome. The 4th Division began arriving at Naples from Egypt on the 15th March and were attached to the Eighth Army for the forthcoming offensive. The “Diadem” offensive commenced on the 12th May and was preceded by a massive bombardment of 1,050 guns of the Eighth Army comprising the 2nd Polish Corps 13 Corps and 1st Canadian Corps. The front held by the Eighth Army extended from the foot of Montecassino to the Liri River to the south. The 2nd Battalion Somerset Light Infantry were held up awaiting the return of assault boats came under under mortar and heavy machine-gun fire in the swept lanes of an extensive minefield on the west bank of the Rapido. The 1st King’s who had preceded them across suffered severe loss when many of their boats were holed and swept away by the swift current. This represented the final Battle of Cassino a neutralising move to eliminate Monastery Hill which had defied three very costly attempts to capture by direct assault.

His next of kin are not recorded.

Remembered with Honour at Cassino War Cemetery, Italy.

45 Gerald WEBBER

Corporal 2662584

3rd Battalion Coldstream Guards.

(201st Guards Brigade).

Killed, aged 31, in action in Italy 29th or 30th January 1944.

He was the son of Harry George and Bessie Webber, of Bishops Hull, Taunton.

Remembered with Honour at Minturno War Cemetery

situated on the Gulf of Gaeta, NW of Naples, Italy.

46 During our research three more names have been linked to Bishops Hull. It is important to remember that the memorial is “In honoured memory of the men from Bishop’s Hull who fell in the Great War, 1914-1919”. We have carried out research for all of them and have not found any reason to associate any of them to Bishops Hull at the time of (or before) their deaths.

The ‘Forces War Forum’ web site refers to a Lance Corporal George Thresher. The association being that his wife Florence (not him) is from Hele, Bishops Hull. This is incorrect and should obviously be Bradford on Tone. In fact there is a G Thresher on the war memorial in Bradford on Tone.

The ‘Forces War Forum’ web site also refers to a Private Harry Pearce. The association is similar suggesting that his wife Ada Eliza Pearce is from School Cottages. We have not been able to confirm any such information which in any case does not directly link Harry Pearce to Bishops Hull.

The ‘Forces War Records’ web site refers to Lieutenant Colonel John Audley Thicknesse. Although there are records linking that his widow Phyllis Margaret and daughter Cicely Anne Holme to Bishops Hull in 1935 (and later) we have not found any evidence to justify John Audley Thicknesse being considered as associated with Bishops Hull. There is a memorial plaque for him in Saint Mary’s, Taunton.

47 SOURCES:

Ancestry.com:] Census Returns FindMy Past: ] Birth, Marriage, Deaths.

Commonwealth War Graves (CWGC) Somerset County Gazette British Newspaper Archive:- Western Daily Press, Western Times Kelly’s Directory De Ruvigny’s Roll 1914-18 Soldiers Died in the Great War Soldiers Died in the Great War: Part 18 Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry) WW1 Ships Lost at Sea British Army Service Records Forces War Records The Genealogist Somerset Heritage Centre – Ref: A\COA/1

Christine Laura Quartly – “My Memories of Bishops Hull”

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Photographs: With permission Front Cover: Bob Steed, Bob Winn

Research: Bob Steed, Ken Burgess, John Hamer, Norman Thompson

Bishops Hull Parish Council – Grant for Research

48