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ADAMS Herbert Jesse
Lance Corporal. 19246.
5th Battalion Dorsetshire Regiment
Died of wounds 1st October 1918. Age: 21
Lance Corporal Herbert Jesse Adams was the son of Emma Adams of 5, Wine Street, Frome. Formerly 1006 North Somerset Yeomanry. He is buried at Sucrerie Cemetery, Epinoy, Pas de Calais, France. Grave Ref: II. H. 4. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
ADAMS Leonard Charles
Private. 152613.
Machine Gun Corps
Killed in action 11th October 1918
Private Leonard Charles Adams was born in Frome and was the son of Mrs E. Adams, of 45, South Street, Wells, Somerset. Formerly 32574 Prince Albert’s Somerset Light Infantry. He is buried at Niagara Cemetery, Iwuy, Nord, France. Grave Ref: A. 35. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
AIKENHEAD Robert
Private. 27853.
15th Battalion.
Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment)
Killed in action 24th April 1915. Age: 23
Eldest son of Lt. Colonel E. Aikenhead of Great Elm, Frome. Private Robert Aikenhead was killed in action at the Belgium town of Ypres, during the stand made by the Canadians from April 22nd 1915. He gave up a good appointment as Commercial Editor of the Toronto News at the beginning of the war, and enlisted into the 48th Highlanders of Canada. He was an amateur boxer. In the words from a Toronto Newspaper “ The graveyard in Flanders is large, those who lie there have left their mortal remains on alien soil. To Canada they have bequeathed their memories and their glory.” He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial, Ypres, now known as Ieper, Belgium. Panel 18-24-30. His name appears in the Somerset War Memorial as residing at Great Elm, Frome.
ALDER Phillip
Sergeant. 12501.
4th Battalion South Wales Borderers
Died of wounds 22nd August 1915
Sergeant Phillip Alder was born in Frome, enlisted in Newport and resided in Pontyminster, Monmouthshire, South Wales. He is buried at Alexandria (Chatby) Military Cemetery, Egypt. Grave Ref.: K. 71. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Trinity Church, Frome.
ALLUM Edgar James
Gunner. 41875.
Royal Field Artillery
Died 13th November 1917.
Gunner Edgar James Allum was born in Taunton, enlisted in Oxford, and according to the Somerset War Memorial, lived in Frome. He is buried at Baghdad (North Gate) Cemetery, Iraq. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
ALLARD Alfred Henry
Lance Corporal. 10669.
8th Battalion Devonshire Regiment
Killed in action 25th September 1915
Lance Corporal Alfred Henry Allard was born in Frome. He enlisted in Bristol and resided in Cardiff. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 35 to 37. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
ALLARD Norman Stanley
Corporal. 36703.
9th Battalion Northamptonshire Regiment (Labour Corps)
Died 13th March 1919. Age: 27
Corporal Norman Stanley Allard was the Son of Benjamin and Mercy Allard, of 10, Wallbridge Avenue, Frome. He is buried at Frome (Holy Trinity) Churchyard. Grave Ref. New Ground 9. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
ALLEN Cyril Starr
Corporal. 235295.
3rd Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers
Died 15th November 1918
The only information available is that Corporal Cyril Starr Allen is buried at Frome (Christ Church) Churchyard, Somerset. Grave Ref: I. 306. His name appears on Christ Church Memorial, Frome.
ANDREWS Frank
Private. PLY/14070(S)
2nd.R.M.Bn.Div.Royal Marine Light Infantry
Killed in action 28th April 1917
Private Frank Andrews was posted as missing on the 28th April 1917, and was assumed killed in action on that date. Before enlisting he was employed by a Mr Marshman, of Palmer Street, Frome. He was well known in sporting circles, and was a member of the rugby fifteen. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Ref: Bay 1. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial and Christ Church, Frome.
ALLUM Edgar James
Gunner. 41875.
Royal Field Artillery
Died 13th November 1917.
Gunner Edgar James Allum was born in Taunton, enlisted in Oxford, and according to the Somerset War Memorial, lived in Frome. He is buried at Baghdad (North Gate) Cemetery, Iraq. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
APPLEGATE William John (photo available)
Stoker 1st Class.
H.M.S. “Indefatigable” Royal Navy
Killed in action 31st May 1916. Age: 29
Stoker William John Applegate was the son of Charles Applegate of Buckland Dinham Frome, formerly of Norton St. Philip, Bath. William had served 12½ years in the Royal Navy and was with the “Indefatigable” when it was involved in the great naval fight at Jutland, on the Danish coast. Admiral Beatty engaged the German battle cruiser squadron and battle fleet, inflicting heavy losses. The enemy dispersed and retreated, with the result of fourteen British ships being sunk, amongst them was the battle cruiser “Indefatigable”. The “Indefatigable” was the rear battle cruiser in the British fleet, and the German guns concentrated on her and gave her a pounding. Part of her fire control position was shot away, and then she was struck by a series of salvos. Under the enemy’s massed fire the “Indefatigable” heeled over until her bilge keel could be seen. Then a salvo of shells blew the bottom out of the ship. 790 officers and men went down with her, including , and three other Frome men, Frederick Herbert Coombs, Arthur John Richards, and Nelson Alexander Topp. Commemorated on the Plymouth Naval Memorial, Devon.
ASHFORD William
Private. 5702.
1st Battalion Duke of Edinburgh’s (Wiltshire Regiment)
Killed in action 11th December 1914. Age: 33
Private William Ashford was born in Puriton, Somerset, and lived in Frome. Son of Jane Ashford; and was the husband of Florence A. Ashford, of 9, Bell Lane, Frome. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial, Ieper, Belgium. Panel 53. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
ASHFORD William Frank
Gunner. 65149.
1st (Lowland) Battery. Royal Garrison Artillery.
Killed in action 1st September 1918. Age: 31
Youngest son of Mr E. B. Ashford, of Webbs Hill Farm, Egford, Frome. Gunner William Ashford was born at Selwood, Frome. He carried on the business of farming, including a milk round in and around Frome after his father had passed away, along with his brother, before enlisting into the army. He joined up in March 1916, and served as a driver with the Royal Garrison Artillery. Being well accustomed to horses, he was made use of in the battery. He fell ill with dysentery at the end of 1917, and was invalided home, but by Christmas 1917, he was well enough to join up again, and was promoted gunner. He is buried at Wancourt British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Grave Ref: V. D. 12. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
ATKINS George Harry Albert
Ship’s Corporal 1st Class. 187361.
H.M.S “Cornwallis” Royal Navy
Died 28th May 1915.
Ship’s Corporal 1st Class George Harry Albert Atkins death is listed as the 28th of May 1915. The cause of death is uncertain. His name appears on the Chatham Memorial, Kent, panel 12. His name also appears on the Beckington War Memorial.
ASQUITH Raymond. (photo available)
Lieutenant.
3rd Battalion Grenadier Guards.
Killed in action Friday 15th September 1916. Age 37.
Eldest son of the Rt. Hon. H. H. Asquith, P.C., Prime Minister of the United Kingdom 1908-1916 (1st Earl of Oxford and Asquith, K.G), and Helen his wife; and the husband of Katherine Asquith, of 17, Oxford Square, London, W.2. Son-in-law of Sir John Horner of Mells. The Somerset Standard of the time reported, “Mrs Raymond Asquith and her children were staying at Mells with her parents when the news came through, that her husband had been killed. He was well known at Mells. The Prime Minister paid a visit to Mrs Asquith at Mells. Lieutenant Asquith was well on the way to fame before the war broke out. His academic career, like that of his father, was full of honours, and almost as soon as he was called to the Bar in 1904, he began to achieve a commanding position in law. Clear-headed, industrious, brilliant, he would have found an opening and gone ahead even if chance had not placed great opportunities in his way. He was junior counsel for Great Britain in the North Atlantic Fisheries Arbitration at the Hague in 1911. In 1907 he married Katherine, daughter of Sir John Horner, of Mells Park, and had two daughters and one son. In 191 he was made a junior counsel to the Treasury. The same year he obtained a commission in the County of London Regiment; later he was appointed a lieutenant in the Grenadier Guards. But in the Army as at the Bar he took no privilege and spared himself no labour. He had been adopted as Liberal candidate for Derby at the next election. He was retiring, but few men enjoyed greater measure of popularity than he. Nothing could have delayed his progress”. He is buried at Guillemont Road Cemetery, Guillemont, Somme, France. Grave B.3. His name appears on the Mells War Memorial.
AVENELL William Percy
Gunner. 94313.
201st Battery.
Royal Field Artillery Labour Corps
Died 22nd February 1920. Age: 29
Gunner William Percy Avenell was the husband of Lily B. Avenell, of Waterworks House, Egford, Frome. He is buried at Frome (Christchurch) Churchyard. Grave Ref: III. 1427. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
AVEN Albert (photo available)
Stoker 1st Class. K/29713.
H.M.S “Test” Royal Navy
Died by accident 8th November 1918
Stoker 1st Class Albert Aven, was the son of Alfred and Elizabeth Aven, of 41, Rodden Cottages, Frome. He was killed when he accidently fell into the dock close to where his ship was moored in Liverpool. He is buried at Rodden Churchyard Extension, Frome. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial as Avon A.
AUSTIN William Arthur Henry (photo available)
Private. 25486.
1st Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Killed in action 21st October 1916. Age 19
Eldest son of Mr and Mrs L. Austin, of Church Cottage, Upton Noble, Somerset. Private William Arthur Henry Austin was born at Upton Noble, Frome. He joined the 8th Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry in May 1916, training at Blandford, then Swanage, and finally at Crown Hill. He left for the Western Front in September 1916 and was transferred to the 1st Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry. He was only at the Front Line for five weeks when he was killed by a shell in a trench. He is buried at Combles Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France. Grave I.A.28. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
AYRES Harry Charles
Sergeant. 32215.
1st Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Killed in action 15th April 1918. Age: 32
Sergeant Harry Charles Ayres was born in Frome, and was the son of Mr and Mrs Albert George Ayres, of 24, Keyford Gardens, Frome. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panels 38 and 39. His name appears on Frome War Memoral, St. John’s, and Christ Church.
AYLESBURY Charles James
Private. 235035.
2nd/5th Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Killed in action 6th September 1917
The only C. Aylesbury to be listed with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, is that of Charles James Aylesbury, who enlisted in Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, and lived in Abertillery, Monmouthshire, South Wales. He was formerly in the Monmouthshire Regiment as 290656. There is nothing that connects him with Frome, but so many from the area moved to South Wales during this period to work in the coal mines. This has now been confirmed as being the Charles Aylesbury which is on Frome War Memorial by a relative, The Reverend Colin Alsbury of St John's Church, Frome. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, Belgium. Panel 23 to 28 and 163A. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
AVON John Arthur (photo available)
Private. 9512.
1st Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Killed in action 1st November 1914
Private John Arthur Avon was the son of Charles Avon, of Goulds Ground, Frome. In a letter from a Lance Corporal E. Herridge (of Nunney), when he confirms the death of Private Stillman (see Stillman), an extract from the letter mentioned that “...Another chap, Private Avon, was killed the same day, and hundreds more...”. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Ploegsteert Memorial, Comines, Belgium. Panel 3. His name appears on the Frome WarMemorial.
BAILY Charles
Private. 203188.
1st/4th Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Died 2nd July 1919. Age: 40
Born at Frome, Private Charles Baily was the son of Charles and Sarah Baily; and was the husband of Fanny Baily, of 14, Keyford Gardens, Frome. He is buried at Frome (Holy Trinity) Churchyard. Grave Ref: Old part 1. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Trinity Church, Frome.
BAILY Arthur Alexander Russell (photo available)
Second Lieutenant.
Royal Field Artillery.
Killed in action 4th November 1918. Age: 27
Lieutenant Baily was educated at King’s School, Bruton, and was a solicitor at Cruttwells, Daniel and Collings, solicitors, Frome. He wa sadmitted aa a solicitor in 1913, and was at the Admiralty immediatelyafter the outbreak of war until January 1917. He passed from the Inns o fCourt Officer Training Corps, which he joined in February 1917, to the Royal Field Artillery, and was gazetted to 2nd. Lieutenant in January 1918. In February 1918 he was married at Frome to Helen Dorothy, daughter of Mr George Edward Somerville, of Southampton. On July 12th he went to France and was attached to a trench mortar battery. He is buried at Poix-Du-Nord Communal Cemetery Extension, Nord, France. Grave I.A.18. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial and St. John’s Memorial in Frome
BABER Francis John
Private. 21644.
14th Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment
Died 7th April 1916. Age: 23
Private Francis John Baber was born in Mells, Somerset, and was the son of Edmund and Mary Louisa Baber of Mells, Frome. He died of Pneumonia. He is buried at St. Venant Communal Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Grave Ref: II H 4. His name appears on the Mells War Memorial. Youngest son of Mr Charles Baily, of Clumber House, Frome. Second
BAINTON Albert
Sergeant. 606426.
11th Bn. King’s Royal Rifle Corps (Labour Corps)
Died 2nd September 1918. Age: 35
Sergeant Albert Bainton was born in Corsley Wiltshire, and was the husband of Annie Bainton, of 72, Lane End, Corsley, Wiltshire; brother of Mrs Harry Sparey, of Spying Cop, 3, Rode Hill, Rode, near Frome, formerly of Langham Lane Rode, near Frome. Prior to enlisting he worked for Lord Bath. Formerly R/1387 King’s Royal Rifle Corps. He is buried at Etaples Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Grave Ref: LXVI. G. 9.
BARNES Ernest Stanley
Colour Sergeant.
TR/8/16736. 37th Bn.Training Reserve. Army Service Corps
Died 20th December 1918. Age: 22
Youngest son of Mrs Barnes, of 16, Fromefield, Frome. Colour Sergeant Ernest Stanley Barnes was born in Frome. He enlisted into the Gloucester and Worcester Army Service Corps in Stroud, in July 1914. After a few months training he was sent to France early in 1915, where he remained for about fifteen months, then came back to England. In November 1917, he left for Africa, attached to the Gold Coast Regiment, Royal West African Frontier Force. He died of pneumonia at the No. 3 General Hospital, Durban, where he had gone to recuperate after a severe attack of fever. He is buried at Durban (Stellawood) Cemetery, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa. Grave Ref: F 81. His name appears on the War Memorial and St. John’s Memorial in Frome.
BARNES Fred
Private. 26735.
1st Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Killed in action 4th October 1917
Private Fred Barnes was the son of William John and Fanny Barnes, of Long Lane Cottages, Wanstrow, Shepton Mallet. He was born at Upton Noble, and lived in Frome. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, Belgium. Panel 41 to 42 and 163A. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
BAKER Herbert Percy (photo available)
Private. 4582.
9th Battalion Kings Own (Royal Lancaster Regt.)
Died 5th February 1918. Age 38
Born in Frome and the son of Mrs H.J. Baker, of 3, Keyford Gardens, Frome; and was the husband of Ellen Harriet Baker, of 19, “C” Block, Lewis Trust Buildings, Warner Road, Camberwell, London. Private Herbert Percy Baker was a regular soldier and went through the South African War. He left the army and rejoined at the outbreak of the war and was a drill instructor in England and France. In October 1916, he went to Salonika, where he died of fever. He left a widow and three young children living in London, where he had resided. He is buried at Mikra British Cemetery, Kalamaria, Greece. Grave: 220. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
BARTLETT Frederick James
Private. 62577.
16th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers
Killed in action 23rd August 1918. Age: 19
Private Frederick James Bartlett was born in Frome, and was the son of Mr and Mrs Bartlett, of Bell Lane, Frome. He is buried at Heath Cemetery, Harbonniers, Somme, France. Grave Ref: V.H.10. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Trinity Church, Frome.
BARTLETT J
Private. 89.
4th Battalion Australian Infantry A.I.F
Died of wounds 20th August 1916. Age: 27
Private J Bartlett served under the name of Barkell. He was the son of Charles and Jane Bartlett, of 29, Collwyn Street, Coed Ely, Llantrisant, Glamorgan,Wales. He was born in Frome. He is buried at Paddington Cemetery, Middlesex. Grave ref; 2 F 15207. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
BARNETT Edward
Private. 211764.
1st/4th Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment
Killed in action 19th July 1916. Age: 24
Son of Mrs Sarah Barnett, of Brass Mills, Saltford, Bath; and the husband of Florence May Knight (formerly Barnett) of 20, Avenue Road, Portway, Frome. Private Edward Barnett was born in Keynsham. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 5A and 5B. His name does not appear the Frome War Memorial.
BARTLETT Claud Allen (photo available)
Rifleman. 44909.
1st Battalion King’s Royal Rifle Corps
Killed in action 27th October 1918. Age; 19
Formerly 8/9756. 35th Training Reserve Battalion, and 31391 Dorsetshire Regiment, Rifleman Claud Allen Bartlett was born at North Cadbury, Somerset, and was the second son of Mrs W. H. Bartlett, of 45, Victoria Road, Frome.He was serving as apprentice to Mr T. Grant, of Willow Vale, Frome, up to February 17th 1917. He went out to France in March 1918. He was killed by a shell on the night of October 27th 1918. He was acting as stretcher-bearer, and his captain said that he was “very brave and stout, and did extraordinarily fine work in all the recent fighting”. He was in some hastily dug trenches in support, and had just got out of the trench for his great coat, when the shell burst. . He is buried at Vertain Communal Cemetery Extension, Nord, France. Grave Ref: D. 4. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Christ Church, Frome
BATES Stanes Geoffrey (photo available)
Captain.
7th (Queen’s Own) Hussars.
Killed in action 13th May 1915. Age: 30.
Only son of Charlotte Thaxter Bates, of Donnington Hall, Ledbury, Herefordshire, and the late Gilbert T Bates, formerly of Mells Park. Captain Stanes Geoffrey Bates joined the 7th Hussars in April 1903, becoming Lieutenant in April 1907, and Captain in May 1912. He became adjutant of the North Somerset Yeomanry in November 1913 and in November 1914, when the regiment lost heavily at Vlamertinghe, he was wounded slightly in the head, but resumed duty almost at once. Trooper F. Spiller, said, “ I expect by the time you get this letter you will have heard the sad news of Captain Bates’s death at Ypres. I don’t know hardly how to write to you about it, but it’s awful. The regiment was put in the trenches with a whole division of cavalry and the Germans shelled the trenches so heavily that it blew the trenches all to pieces, killing officers and men like anything. All the regiments have been cut up terribly. Ours is as bad as any. I was not in the trenches at the time, but we were staying just behind. What I have heard of the captain up to now is that he and Major Cambell and the Sergeant Major were in a trench together having biscuits and jam, when a shellcame over and killed the three...the captain, as everyone at home knows, was one of the very best, and no officer was ever liked or respected more than he was with the North Somerset Yeomanry. A cheery word for everyone, he always seemed to be the same, and all the men would do anything for him. I can hardly believe it now, but it is true, and it’s awful to be here and think that we shall not see him again. What I shall do I do not know, and nobody knows what we can. We have lost 10 officers out of the 13 that went up in the trenches, and from what we can gather there are not 100 men left. A memorial service was held at Mells Parish Church. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial, Ieper, Belgium. Panel 5. His name appears on the Mells War Memorial.
BATHARD James (photo available)
Lance Corporal. 12090.
6th Battalion Duke of Edinburgh’s (Wiltshire
Regiment)
Killed in action 25th September 1915
Lance Corporal James Bathard was the son of Mr and Mrs Bathard of Edington, Wiltshire. He was born in Tinhead, Wiltshire, and lived in Frome with his wife. He was a self employed mason, and was a lay preacher in the Frome area and in the army. He wrote sermons on scraps of paper, which still exist today and preached in the trenches. He is the Grandfather to Mrs Jill Owen, of “Owens Dairies” of Frome. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 102. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
BEAVEN Midford William
Private. 99413.
Machine Gun Corps
Killed in action 16th August 1917
Born in Street, Somerset, Private Midford William Beaven lived in Frome, He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, Belgium. Panels 154 to 159 and 163A. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
BELCHAM Arthur William
Cook’s Mate. M/22705.
H.M.S “Seagull” Royal Navy
Drowned 30th September 1918. Age: 27
Cook’s Mate Arthur William Belcham was the son of Sarah Jane Belcham, and the late Charles Belcham, of 6, Selwood Road, Frome. He drowned after a collision in the Firth of Clyde. H.M.S “Seagull” was a Torpedo Gunboat used as a minesweeper, and was built in 1889. He is commemorated on the Plymouth Naval Memorial, Devon. Panel 28. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Trinity Church, Frome
BENGER Nelson
Stoker 1st Class. SS/106311.
H.M.S “Broke” Royal Navy
Killed in action 31st May 1916. Age: 30
Stoker 1st Class Nelson Benger was the son of Mrs Lawrence (formerly Benger) of, 64, Asde Street, Frome. He was killed in action at the Battle of Jutland. He is commemorated on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial. His name appears on the War Memorial and St. John’s Memorial in Frome
BENGER Thomas James
Private. 40523.
2nd/4th Battalion Hampshire Regiment
Killed in action 20th July 1918
Private Thomas James Benger was born in Bruton, Somerset. He is buried at Marfaux British Cemetery, Marne, France. Grave Ref: II. G. 3. His name appears on the War Memorial and St. John’s Memorial in Frome
BENNETT Arthur (photo available)
Private. 6244.
1st Battalion Wiltshire Regiment
Killed in action 2nd September 1915
Adopted son of Mr and Mrs William Charlton, of Ridgeway, Frome, Private Arthur Bennett had been in the army with the Wiltshire Regiment for 12 years, and was looking forward to retiring and getting married. Being a former student at the Nunney Evening Continuation School. He was with the British Expeditionary Force. There had been heavy artillery firing, and after retiring for a rest in a dugout, the dugout received a direct hit, and Arthur Bennett was blown up and killed instantly. He is buried at Hooge Crater Cemetery, Ieper, Belgium. Grave Ref: III. F. 8. His name appears on Nunney War Memorial.
BENNETT Lionel James Fowler
Stoker 2nd Class. K/47073.
H.M.S “Vivid” Royal Navy
Died 5th January 1918. Age: 18
Stoker Lionel James Fowler Bennett, was the son of Harry Fowler and Louise Annie Bennett, of 27, Goulds Ground, Frome. He had only just joined up, at reaching the age of 18 years old, as a recruit, when he was taken ill and admitted to the Naval Hospital, Portsmouth. At first it was thought that his illness was not serious, but he contracted a lung infection and died. He is buried at Frome (Vallis Road) Cemetery. Grave Ref: 11. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.The words Our Only Child Pure Soul Called to Heaven are inscribed on his headstone
BIGGS Harold Ernest
Lance Corporal. 19314.
1st Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Killed in action 17th May 1918. Age: 37
Lance Corporal Harold Ernest Biggs, was the eldest son of Frederick Biggs, of 7, Hurds Buildings, Frome; and the husband of Annie Biggs. Leaving Frome, some 13 years prior to war breaking out, Harold Biggs lived in Yorkshire, and returned purposely to join his old regiment, the Somerset Light Infantry. Being a fomer member of the Frome Volunteers, and partially trained, was sent to France a few weeks after joining up. Harold was in France about eighteen months when He was wounded and was sent back to England, and was in hospital for six months. Returning to France again about one month before He met his death. Harold was killed by a sniper, and died instantly. In a letter from his platoon commander, it stated, “...was always so willing and ready to do any work, however dangerous it was, and was a most capable NCO, and had He been spared would soon have gained promotion...”. Harold was a former member of the Frome rugby team, and left a widow and three children. He is buried at La Vertannoy British Cemetery, Hinges, Pas de Calais, France. Grave Ref: B. 11. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
BIGGS Henry George
Private. 26448.
4th Battalion Grenadier Guards
Killed in action 2nd August 1917
Private Henry George Biggs was born and lived in Rode, Near Frome. He is buried at Artillery Wood Cemetery, Boezinge, Ieper, Belgium. Grave Ref: IV. E. 15. His name appears on Rode War Memorial.
BISHOP Charles Edward
Private. 273086.
1st/6th Battalion Durham Light Infantry
Died of wounds 30th March 1918. Age: 37
Son of John and Susan Bishop, of Dilton Marsh, Westbury, Wiltshire; and the husband of Jane Bishop, of St. Mary’s Road, Dilton Marsh, Westbury, Wiltshire. Private Charles Edward Bishop was born at Standerwick, near Frome, and enlisted at Westbury, Wiltshire. He is buried at St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen, Seine-Maritime, France. Grave Ref: P. VII. E. 10B.
BRADBURY George Chapman (photo available)
Air Mechanic 2nd Class. 51746.
6 Squadron Royal Flying Corps
Killed in action 31st October 1917. Age: 35
Air Mechanic 2nd Class George Chapman Bradbury was born at Shepton Mallet, Somerset, and was the son of Frederick George and Elizabeth Mary Bradley; and the husband of M. E. Bradbury, of 22, Hockmore Street, Cowley, Oxford. Private George Bradbury was educated at the Wells Blue School and was professed to have been a clever photographer during his school days. He had chosen photography as a profession and worked for Bells & Sons of Frome and Shepton Mallet, working in the Frome branch. He joined the Somerset Light Infantry in August 1916, and was transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, where his professional skill was in demand and used in aerial photography of the German lines. Private Bradbury was some nine miles behind the front lines in a photo studio when it was bombed. According to his diaries the aerodrome had been receiving special attention from the “Hun” airman, and it is presumed that it was under these circumstances that a bomb was dropped on the building which killed him and a comrade. The intelligence officer of the squadron wrote to his wife and said, “...Your husband was killed early this morning by an act of the enemy. No words of mine can fully express my feelings in regard to the loss of your husband, who was, without a doubt, the most gentlemanly, trustworthy, sincere and efficient photographer in my section. I shall miss himgreatly, not only for his work, but for the good qualities which he possessed. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for you and your family in the loss of your dear husband, who died as an English gentleman, and who has been called to a higher service...”. He is buried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Poperinge, Belgium. Grave Ref: XXI. DD. 16A. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
BISHOP Walter
Private. 38285.
8th Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Killed in action 5th April 1918
Private Walter Bishop was born in Frome, and resided in Nantymoel, Glamorgan. He is buried at Gommecourt British Cemetery No. 2, Hebuturne, Pas de Calais, France. Grave Ref: IV. D. 8. His namedoes not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
BRIMSON James Edward George
Private. 41922.
2nd Battalion Worcestershire Regiment
Died of wounds 19th April 1918. Age: 24.
Private James Edward George Brimson was born in Frome and was the husband of Mrs Brimson, of the Mount, Frome. Formerly 25561 Royal Warwickshire Regiment he died as a result of a gunshot wound. Prior to joining the army he succeeded his father in a hauliers business at the Mount, Frome, hauling for the Electricity Works, until he was called up In January 1917. He was trained at Sutton Veny, Exmouth and Sutton Mandeville with the 33rd Training Reserve, after being stationed on the Isle of Wight and at Dover. He went over to France in January 1918 with a draft of the Warwickshire Regiment, and was afterwards transferred to the Worcester's. He was wounded on April 17th 1918. He left a widow and a young child. The cemetery which he is buried in, was one of three which were named by the soldiers of the time, the two other cemeteries were named Bandaginghem (bandageing them) and Dosinghem (dosing them). He is buried at Mendinghem Military Cemetery, Poperinge, West Vlaanderen, Belgium. Grave Ref: X. B. 19. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Christ Church, Frome.
BRIMSON James (photo available)
Private. 16121.
2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards.
Killed in action 16th May 1916. Age: 27
Younger son of Mrs E. Brimson, of 2, Sun Street, Frome. Private James Brimson joined the army in April 1915, and went to the Front Line some seven weeks before meeting his death. He is buried at Potijze Burial Ground Cemetery, Ieper, West Vlaanderen, Belgium. Grave Ref: A.8. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
BRIMSON Ernest Richard (photo available)
Private. 3280. Australian Infantry, A.I.F
Killed in action 9th April 1917
Private Ernest Richard Brimson is buried at Morchies Australian Cemetery, Pas de Calais,France. Grave Ref: B. 14. His name appears onTrinity Church Memorial in Frome.
BROWN Frederick
Unknown rank.
Service Number. Regiment/Ship
Unknown cause and date of death
No trace of a Frederick Brown, associated with Frome can be found on “Soldiers Died” or C.W.G.C. His name appears on St. John’s Memorial in Frome.
BROOKING Hugh Cyril Arthur (photo available)
Captain.
North Somerset Yeomanry
Died 31st May 1918.
Captain Hugh Cyril Arthur Brooking was born on the 15th of September 1870, and was the fourth son of the late Rev. Arthur Brooking, who died in Frome in 1890. He came to Frome with his parents as a boy, but was educated at St. Mark’s School, Windsor, Lancing College and Downs College. Gaining a certificate at the Mining College in London, He went to the gold mines in Mashonaland, South Africa. When the Boar War broke out he joined the Imperial Light Horse, and was engaged in the battles of Elandslaagte, Wagon Hill, and took part at Ladysmith during the siege as well as the relief of Mafeking. Mentioned several times in despatches, and obtaining the Queen’s South African medal with six clasps, and the King’s South African medal with two clasps. Captain Brooking then joined the South African Constabulary, under General Baden Powell. Having previously held a commission in the North Somerset Yeomanry, leaving it for a short period, rejoining as soon as the First World war broke out. He was in France with his regiment when it made it’s famous stand against the Prussian Guards. All his superior officers were killed or wounded, so he had to take
temporary command of the regiment. Holder of the ribbon of the 1914 star of Mons, but did not live to receive it. Captain Brooking served with his regiment for 20 years, having seen a great deal of fighting, he escaped being wounded, but through exposure and other causes, his health suffered, and was employed on home service, with the Labour Corps at West Ham, commanding the 37th Labour Company, and second in command of his battalion. He met with a slight accident which led to his death. Grazing his knuckles, which caused slight bleeding, the wound was so slight no notice was taken of it. Striking his hand again some hours later, fresh paint affected the wound, and he died of blood poisoning at the Military Hospital, Perfleet. He left a widow and two sons. A Military funeral took place at St. John the Baptist Church, Frome, where he is buried. Near the south wall of the church. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial..
BROWNJOHN Ernest Henry (photo available)
Private. 201960.
1st/4th Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment
Killed in action 2nd October 1917. Age: 25
Son of Ernest Alfred & Sarah Brownjohn, of 55, Broadway, Frome. Private Ernest Henry Brownjohn was born in Frome. He was only in the trenches for just over two months before he met his death. His Officer wrote of him as being “...a very fine lad, and one of the best I have ever had in the platoon. Under the most
trying circumstances he always had a cheery word, which did much to keep up the spirits of his comrades. He was a brave lad...”. He is buried at Duhallow A.D.S. Cemetery, Ieper, Belgium. Grave Ref: I. D. 8. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial as, “Brown J.E.H”, and Trinity Church, Frome as Brownjohn.
BUDGETT Fred Joseph. M.M (photo available)
Private. 27049.
14th Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment
Died 4th April 1918. Age: 26
Private Fred Joseph Budgett was born in Frome, and was the eldest son of Joseph and Annie Budgett, of 4, Naish’s Street, Frome; and husband of Florence Lusty (formerly Budgett), of, 8, New Buildings, Frome. He was attached to the 7th Battalion of the Queen’s Own (Royal West Kent) Regiment, and had been on active service in France since June 1916, and was with his battalion in the “Battle of the Somme”. He was awarded the Military Medal for bravery in the field. “At great personal risk, carried his wounded captain to a place of safety”. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Pozieres Memorial, Somme, France. Panel 40 and 41. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Trinity Church, Frome.
BUDGETT George Edgar
Corporal. 25618.
2nd Garrison Bn. Oxford and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry
Died 1st May 1919. Age: 24
Son of Joseph and Annie Budgett, of, 4, Naish’s Street, Frome. Corporal George Edgar Budgett is buried at Frome (Holy Trinity) Churchyard. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
BULL Ernest Charles Henry (photo available)
Private. 27719.
6th Battalion Duke of Cornwall’s (Light Infantry)
Died of wounds 16th September 1916. Age: 24
Only son of Charles Henry and Bertha Bull, of 14, Christchurch Street West, Frome. Private Bull was born, and lived in Frome and was formerly, 24347, of the Somerset Light Infantry. He had worked at the Selwood
Printing Works in Frome, prior to the outbreak of the war, and went to France on the 30th August 1916. He had only been out at the front for two weeks when he received the wounds from which he subsequently died. He left a widow and one child. He is buried at Heilly Station Cemetery, Mericourt-L’abbe, Somme, France. Grave Ref: IV.D.69. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Christ Church Frome.
BULL Harold Alfred (photo available)
Private. 6797.
1st Battalion Wiltshire Regiment.
Died of wounds 14th September 1914. Age: 28.
Private Harold Alfred Bull, known as “Harry” was born in Frome, and lived at Wiltshire Buildings, Frome. He had served for seven years in the regulars and was called up as a reservist at the outbreak of war. He formerly worked at the Selwood Printing Works in Frome. Leaving to marry and settle in Wales. He left a widow and a baby only a few weeks old. He was officially reported to have died of wounds at Valenciennes.
His brother, Private Joseph William Bull, of the 1st Battalion Somerset Light Infantry was killed in action at Frezenburg Ridge on the 9th of May 1915. He is buried at Valenciennes (St. Roch) Communal Cemetery, Nord, France. Grave Ref: V.G.26. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Trinity Church, Frome.
BULL William Joseph
Private. 7883.
1st Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Killed in action on the 9th May 1915.
Son of Mr and Mrs Bull, of Wiltshire Buildings, Frome. Private William Joseph Bull was born in Frome. He was batman to an officer when he was killed, he left a widow and child, who were living in Warminster. He had a brother in the Wiltshire Regiment, Private Harold Alfred Bull, who died of his wounds on the 14th of September 1914. He had another brother Private Henry James Bull in the Monmouth’s who was wounded. In a letter to his wife, from an officer in the regiment, he wrote,“... he was one of the best and bravest in company C...” He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial, Ieper, Belgium. Panel 21. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Trinity Church, Frome.
BURGE Oliver Samuel (photo available)
Private. 14796.
7th Battalion Bedforshire Regiment
Died of wounds September 27th 1916. Age: 22
Private Oliver Samuel Burge was born at Mells, Frome, and was the brother of Mr Harry Burge, of Chantry. He died of his wounds received on the 27th September 1916. He was the seventh son of the late George Burge, of Mells Green, and was for some time under-gardener at Mells Park, and also worked at Rode Manor previously. He joined the army at the outbreak of war. He is buried at Aveluy Wood Cemetery, Mesnil-
Martinsart, Somme, France. Grave Ref: I.A.9. His name appears on the Mells War memorial.
BURGE Stanley
Private. 38319.
1st Bn. Princess Charlotte of Wales’s (Royal Berkshire Regiment)
Died of wounds 4th June 1918
Private Stanley Burge was born in Mells, Frome. His name appears on the Mells War Memorial. No record can be found within the Commonwealth War Graves Commission database, to where he is buried or commemorated.
BURGESS Harry
Private. 10630.
7th Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment
Killed in action 3rd February 1917. Age: 24
Private Harry Burgess was born in Frome, and was the son of Mrs E. Burgess, of 12, Naish’s Street, Frome. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Basra Memorial, Iraq. Panel 17. His name appears on the War Memorial, St. John’s, and Trinity Memorials in Frome
BURGESS Robert Oliver
Steward 2nd. Class. L/6606.
H.M.S “Vivid” Royal Navy
Died 12th April 1920. Age: 22
Steward Robert Oliver Burgess was the son of Elizabeth Burgess, of 25, Trinity Street, Frome. He died from pneumonia, and is buried at Plymouth (Weston Hill) Cemetery, Devon. Grave Ref: Somerset Naval Con. C. 3806. His name does not appear on the Frome War Memorial.
BURR Edward Henry Photo new
Sapper. 504373.
500th (Wessex) Field Coy. Royal Engineers
Died 23rd October 1918. Age: 34
Sapper Edward Henry Burr, was the son of Mr and Mrs F. Burr, of Horn Street, Nunney, Frome. He died of malaria and pneumonia, having been admitted to hospital on the 23rd of October 1918. He joined the army in August 1915. Prior to joining he was a well known cricketer and was employed at Nunney as a journeyman mason. He had been in Salonika for two and a half years. He is buried at Kirechkoi-Hortakoi Military Cemetery, Salonika, Greece. Grave Ref: 385. His name appears on the Nunney War Memorial.
BURTON Harry
Private. 8585.
2nd Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Died 22nd August 1916.
Private Harry Burton was born in Frome, enlisting in Bath. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Delhi Memorial (India Gate), India. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial.
BUTT Ralph Stanley
Rifleman. G/9887.
20th Battalion King’s Royal Rifle Corps.
Killed in action 19th June 1917. Age: 23.
Son of Mrs Louisa R. Butt, of 4, Bell Lane, Frome. Private Ralph Stanley Butt was born at Frome. He was a merchant seaman, and joined the army in January 1916. According to the Somerset Standard, Ralph was one of three killed, and the wounding of seven other soldiers from Frome, from the same regiment, in one single bombardment. The other soldiers killed were Albert James Sherston, of Innox Hill, Frome, and Lance Corporal Arthur James Baily, of Frome. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission records state that Ralph Butt was killed on the 19th June 1917, Albert Sherston and Arthur Bailey were killed on the 17th of June 1917, and Arthur Bailey lived at Croscombe, Somerset, and not Frome. It all happened in a heavy enemy counter attack on a new position won. The men were engaged in some important work consolidating, when the attack was made by the enemy and they at once ‘ Stood To’ and succeeded in fighting back a stronger force and held the position. In a letter from a Captain Cope, he wrote, “... the men were engaged together and a heavy hostile bombardment suddenly broke out. A shell fell where the men were at work. Rifleman Sherston was killed on the spot...”. Another letter states that he was almost unrecognisable, and it was believed he was blown to pieces. No trace of Rifleman Butt could be found, and he was officially reported as “missing, believed killed”. The Somerset Standard states the date of death in the letter from Captain Cope as being the 4th of June 1917. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 7. His name appears on the War Memorial, St. John’s, and Trinity Memorials in Frome.
BUTTON Norman Frederick (photo available)
Lieutenant.
1st Battalion Prince Albert’s (Somerset Light Infantry)
Killed in action 4th November 1917. Age: 23
Son of Jonah & Emmeline Sophia Button, of “Penleigh”, Portway, Frome. Lieutenant Norman Fred Button was attached to the 11th Trench Mortar Battery. He was educated at Sexey’s School, Bruton, Somerset.On leaving school he held a position with Parr’s Bank at Weston Super Mare. Early in the war he enlisted in the Royal Field Artillery and later obtained a commission in the Somerset Light Infantry. He was killed serving in a trench mortar battery which was in action at 1.30 a.m on November 4th 1917, by a shell. A Lieutenant A. J. Young of Frome, wrote, “... Button was with me recently when I was back at rest. A few nights ago, on the night 3rd-4th November, the Boches attempted a raid on our lines, and laid down a heavy barrage on our support lines and on the emplacements. Button was standing too his trench mortar gun, working his gun like a Briton, but an unlucky Boche trench mortar landed right in the emplacement and killed him and another trench mortar officer outright...”. He is buried at Monchy British Cemetery, Monchy-Le-Preux, Pas de Calais, France. Grave Ref: II.A.3. His name appears on the War Memorial and St. John’s Memorial in Frome.
BUTTON William Henry
Private. 19176.
5th Battalion Dorsetshire Regiment
Killed in action 13th June 1917. Age: 33
Private William Henry Button was formerly 1023 North Somerset Yeomanry. He was the son of Henry Button, of 17, Keyford, Frome; and husband of Elsie O’Dea (formerly Button), of 18, Pentre Street, Glyn- Neath, Glamorgan, previously of the Butts, Frome. He was a Frome postman, and was very well known in the area. He joined the postal service as a telegraph messenger when he left school, and was promoted to auxiliary postman in the town and later, on the Nunney/Delamere delivery. He was killed by the explosion of a shell. He left a widow and a son of 7 years and a daughter of 5 years old. He is buried at Lindenhoek Chalet Military Cemetery, Kemmel, Heuvelland, Belgium. Grave Ref: II.I.4. His name appears on the Frome War Memorial, and Christ Church, Frome.