At least 171 men associated with the village of Cottingley served in the armed forces during the First World War.

The names of 147 appear on a tablet in Cottingley Town Hall, while the names of 29 who died appear on the War Memorial which stands outside St. Michael & All Angels’ Church. The names of three men who died are missing from the War Memorial.

Photographs of the tablet in the Town Hall and the memorial in its original position and current position outside St. Michael’s Church can be found in the Picture Gallery. Where we have photographs of the servicemen, these can also be found in the Picture Gallery.

This website provides information about as many of those men as possible. Information about a handful remains to be discovered.

The names of those who remain mysterious are:

S. M. Crook, M. Lancaster, D. Tankard, J. A. Woodhouse and W. H. Wright.

Abberton, John – born 1865, son of Michael and Ellen Abberton. Married Annie Donlan in 1890 and had two sons, John Edward and William, who both served in WW1 (see below). Annie died in 1897. John was a worsted warp twister by trade. John enlisted in July 1915 and served in L Company, West Yorkshire Special Reserve at Dringhouses Camp, York. He died in 1939.

Abberton, John Edward – born 1891 at Halifax, son of John  and Annie Abberton. John Edward probably enlisted at the same time as his brother, William, as they had consecutive service numbers, served in the same regiment and saw action, in Africa, on the same day. Served as Private GS/15141 in 25th Battalion Royal Fusiliers, later promoted to Sergeant in 5th Battalion Royal Fusiliers. Initial action was in Africa on 4th May 1915. Awarded 1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal. John Edward was a weaving overlooker by trade. He married in 1933 to Sara Ann Smith and they had one son, Michael J. Lived at 34 Hollings Street, Cottingley from 1918 to 1934. Died 10th April 1961 at Keighley.

Abberton, Joseph – born 1879, son of Michael and Ellen Abberton. Joseph was a mill mechanic by trade and married Sarah Ann Hill in 1911. They had two sons, James and John. John served in the RAF in WW2 and was killed in action in August 1942. Joseph served as Private 18127 in the R. A. M. C. and was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal. He first saw action in France on 31st December 1914. Joseph lived at 9 New Brighton Road, Shipley from 1918 to 1951, then at 4 Butterfield Homes, Cottingley Moor Road until 1955. He died at Menston Hospital on 6th September 1956.

Abberton, William – born 1893 at Halifax, son of John and Annie Abberton. William, who, at one time, was a worsted warp twister by trade, attested at Bradford on 5th April 1915 and joined the 25th Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers as Private 15142 (see also John Edward Abberton, above). At that time he declared his occupation to be a millwright and clerk. William served in East Africa from 4th May 1915 until 26th January 1916, shortly after which he was admitted to Bradford War Hospital. This was followed by periods in the Royal Herbert Hospital at Woolwich and the Red Cross Military Hospital at Maghull before being dismissed on 9th January 1917 as no longer physically fit for war service. William was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory Medal, British War Medal and Silver War Badge. During his time in East Africa, William wrote letters home, several of which were published in the Keighley News. William married Florence Adeline Sugden in 1924 and they had a daughter Cecilia. William and Florence lived at Sandal, Parkside, Bingley for many years until William’s death at Otley General Hospital on 31st March 1957.

Akeroyd, Harry Craven – born 15th October 1897, son of John Henry Akeroyd and his wife, Ada (nee Rawnsley). In 1911 Harry was a farm labourer. On 30th April 1918 Harry joined the Royal Air Force as Air Mechanic No. 162777 and spent some time at 42 Training Development Squadron, Hounslow, Middlesex. On 8th February 1919 Harry married Kathleen Kelly at St. Mary’s, Spring Grove, Middlesex. It appears that on 14th April 1919 Harry deserted from the R. A. F. Harry and Kathleen lived at various addresses in Cottingley and had three children, William, John and Eileen. Harry had another son, Ralph, before his marriage to Kathleen. On 21st March 1925 the Akeroyd family emigrated to Canada where Harry died on 10th March 1949 at Vancouver.

Akeroyd, John Henry – born 10th April 1876 at Girlington, son of Craven and Alice Akeroyd. On 2nd June 1897 he married Ada Rawnsley and they subsequently had 5 children, Harry Craven (see above), Alice, Fred, Ralph and Edith. In 1911 John Henry was an electric car cleaner, residing at 50 Main Street, Cottingley at the time. No record of John Henry’s military service has been found, however Harry’s marriage certificate (dated 8th February 1919) showed his father’s profession to be “soldier” and the 1918 Electoral Register showed John Henry as an absentee and his ability to vote being through Naval or Military qualification.  From 1912 onwards John Henry lived at various addresses in Cottingley including 3 Butterfield Homes from 1945 until 1962. He died in 1967.

Alderson, Vernon – born 1896, son of Thomas Naylor Alderson and his wife Alice. In 1911 Vernon was a pawnbroker’s apprentice with Cromacks of Shipley and Bingley. Vernon served as Private 325991 in the Royal Scots Regiment and as acting Corporal in the 2nd Battalion Royal Scots Regiment. At one time it was reported that Vernon had been gassed in France and was seriously ill. He was awarded the Victory and British War Medals. Vernon married Ruth Cockshott at Cottingley on 20th September 1920. They had two children, Kathleen and Kenneth. Vernon lived in Main Street and Smith Street, Cottingley for several years after the war then at 28 Woodcot Avenue, Baildon from 1935 until his death on 19th February 1963.

Askew, John Christopher – born 10th July 1893, son of Anthony Askew and his wife, Minnie (nee Rumney). In 1911 John was a butcher living at Beckfoot, Bingley with his parents, brothers and sisters. He enlisted on 18th July 1916, serving as Private 7506 in the 1/5th Battalion of the West Riding Regiment. He subsequently served as Private 8/6329 and 301948 with the 8th Battalion Durham Light Infantry, from which he was discharged on 25th January 1918. John served overseas and was awarded the Victory Medal, British War Medal and Silver War Badge. On 1st October 1921 John married May Ormondroyd at Mornington Road Wesleyan Chapel, Bingley. They had three children, Jack, Pamela and Thomas. John died in 1969.

Askew, Thomas Henry – born 1891, son of Anthony Askew and his wife, Minnie (nee Rumney). In 1911 Thomas was working on his father’s farm at Beckfoot, Bingley. Thomas served as Gunner 165691 in “B” Battery of the 95th Brigade of the Royal Field Artillery and was awarded the Victory and British War medals. Thomas was killed in action on 4th November 1918 and is commemorated at the Vendegies-Au-Bois British Cemetery.

Baker, George Frederick – born 1899, son of George and Marian Baker of Bainton. Enlisted in Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve on 29th August 1916 with the rank of Ordinary Seaman No. J57699 RN, rising to the rank of Able Seaman. Served on board HMS Britannia from 7th October 1916 to 9th November 1918 when it was sunk by UB50 off Cape Trafalgar. George was severely burned in this action. After demobilisation on 7th February 1919 George became a gardener. At the time of his marriage to Evelyn Riley on 20th January 1925 George was resident at Bankfield Lodge. George and Evelyn had 3 children, George, Fred and Joe

Bartle, Bernard – born 1884, son of Edwin and Hannah Amelia Bartle. Bernard married Annie Holroyd on 23rd September 1908 at Holy Trinity Church, Huddersfield. In 1911 they were residing at 2 New Brighton and Bernard was an estate and insurance agent. Bernard and Annie had one son, James. Bernard served as Private 204277 in the 9th Battalion, 2/7th Battalion and 1/7th Battalion of the West Riding Regiment and was discharged on 25th September 1919. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals. From 1915 Bernard lived at Hill Top, Cottingley until his death, in Bingley Hospital, on 26th June 1955. Bernard had been secretary of Airedale Agricultural Society for 44 years up to 1947. He had also been secretary of Bingley Livestock Auction Mart Co. Ltd. since 1914 and secretary and one of the founders of Bradford Bantam Show.

Batchelor, Ernest – born 17th November 1890, son of Charles Hudson Batchelor, a coachman, and his wife Elizabeth. Ernest was a groom and gardener (employed by Thomas Hill) of Skirrow Street, Cottingley when he joined the 6th Battalion West Riding Regiment on 20th July 1908.  In 1911 Ernest was a driver at the Royal Engineers Training Depot at Aldershot, although he was registered there as Edward Batchelor. On 29th July 1913 Ernest married Gertrude Lillian Willett at Allerton Parish Church. For service as Driver 21323 in the Royal Engineers, Ernest was awarded the 1914 Star and clasp, Victory Medal, British War Medal and Silver War Badge. He had enlisted in the Royal Engineers on 21st March 1911, first served overseas on 18th August 1914 and was discharged on 18th December 1914 through sickness. Ernest and Gertrude had two children, Muriel and Audrey.

Batchelor, John William – born 14th February 1888 and brother of Ernest (see above). No record of his military service has been found but in 1911 he was a Private in the West Riding Regiment serving in India. Newspaper reports indicated that he was wounded in August 1914 at Mons and later taken prisoner by the Germans. He was awarded the 1914 Star, clasp and roses, the Victory medal and the British War medal and discharged on 27th April 1919. In 1914 he had been appointed postman at Menston where he lived from 1922 to 1926. On 7th January 1922 John William married Edith Jeffray at Menston with Woodhead Parish Church and on 25th March 1927 the couple, with their son Charles, emigrated to Canada where John William was joining his brother and intended to be a salesman.

Beales, Ernest – born 1893, son of John and Louisa Jane Beales. In 1911 Ernest was a monumental mason’s apprentice living at 2 Mitton Street, Cottingley. No conclusive evidence has been found of Ernest’s military service although a possible soldier was Private No. 266333 in the 2/6th Battalion of the West Riding Regiment. On 24th May 1919 Ernest married Emma Elizabeth Verney at Cottingley. They had two children, Doris Florence and Kathleen.

Bloomfield, Horace William – One of the forgotten soldiers whose name does not appear on the Town Hall plaque. Horace was born in 1893, the son of David and Annie Bloomfield. In 1911 he was an apprentice weaving overlooker. At the time of his marriage to Alice Revill, at St. Michael & All Angels’ Church, Cottingley on 20th August 1917, Horace’s occupation was a soldier. The 1918 Electoral Register records Horace as absent and qualifying for a vote through naval or military service. At that time he was resident at 10 Strand, Cottingley.

Bode, Otto Burchard Francis (Frank) – born in 1881 at Prestwich, Manchester, the son of Charles Henry Christian Adolphe Bode and his wife, Sarah Elizabeth (nee Williamson). Frank’s father was a German who attained British naturalisation in 1876. Frank married Ethel Maude Greenwood at Scarborough in 1909 and was resident there in 1911 when he was a confectioner and tobacconist. Frank served as Private DM2/ 117781 in the Army Service Corps first seeing action in France on 26th November 1915. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal and was discharged on 20th April 1919. Frank and Ethel had a son, Gerald. They lived at 2 Cottingley Cliffe Road for a few years then in Shipley until Frank’s death in 1945.

Brigg, Charles Herbert Lawrence – born 6th May 1891, the son of William and Sarah Ann Brigg (nee Hartley). In 1911 Charles was a mechanic who resided at Wood View, Cottingley. In 1916 he married Elsa M Tillotson and they subsequently had three children, Lawrence, Kenneth and Kedrie. Charles served as Gunner 786526 in the Royal Field Artillery and was awarded the Victory and British War medals. He continued to live at Wood View until 1922, then at Baildon until his death in 1957.

Brigg, William Llewellyn – older brother of Charles (see above), William was born on 6th May 1887. In 1911 William was also a mechanic (employed by his father) and living at Wood View, Cottingley. William appears to have been married three times – first to Edith Willan in 1907, then to Mary Ellen Eastwood in 1912 and finally to Annie Margery Hampson in 1945. William served in the Queen’s Own Yorkshire Dragoons eventually attaining the rank of Lieutenant. He served in France from 20th July 1915 and was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory and British War medals. William also served in  India after the war. William died on 20th May 1961.

Briggs, Arthur Edward – born 29th June 1889, son of Arthur Harry and Emma Briggs (nee Sutcliffe). Arthur was a motor driver No. 225773 in the Royal Naval Air Service which he joined on 19th February 1917. On 1st April 1918 he was transferred to the Royal Air Force and was discharged on 30th April 1920. In 1915 Arthur married Gladys M Boothroyd and they had three children, Eric Edward, Joan Boothroyd and Margaret Stephanie. They lived at Cottingley Hall until Arthur’s untimely death on 15th March 1928.

Butterfield, Percy Leonard – born 16th November 1897, son of Lot and Hannah Butterfield. In 1911, at the age of 13 years, Percy was a worsted spool doffer living at 60 Hollings Street, Cottingley. Percy enlisted in the R.A.F. on 15th May 1918 and served as a fitter (No. 167953). He was transferred to the reserve on 19th November 1919. Percy married Minnie Sunderland in 1922 and they subsequently had two children, Jack and Peter. Percy married again in 1939, to Emily Varley. Percy lived at various addresses in Cottingley, Bingley and Wilsden before settling at 21 Manor Road, Cottingley in 1934. Percy died in 1981.

Carter, Edwin Legat – born on 7^th November 1882, son of Amos Carter, a glazier, and his wife Martha (nee Smith). Edwin appears to have been brought up by his grand parents James and Ann Smith at their home at Lane End, Bingley. On 6^th May 1905 Edwin married Ellen Matilda Rimington at Harden and they subsequently had three children, Annie, Nellie and James. In 1911, at the age of 28, Edwin, a fitter, was living at 27 Lane End, Harden with his family.  By the time Edwin attested on 5^th August 1915 at Keighley, he had already served 4 years in the West Riding Volunteer Battalion. At this time Edwin was living at 5 Mitton Street, Cottingley and his stated profession was “musician”. Upon enlistment, Private  25180 Edwin Carter was posted to the Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry at Pontefract. In July 1916 Edwin was appointed Lance Corporal but reverted to Private in February 1917 at his own request. In April 1917 Edwin was transferred to the Royal Army Service Corps with service number 279928. Edwin served in 615 Motor Transport Company where he qualified as a caterpillar fitter. It would appear that Edwin served part of the time in Ireland. On 5^th May 1919 Edwin was discharged from service as being “no longer physically fit for war service” due to defective vision. As a result Edwin was awarded a Silver War Badge and a pension of 21 shillings and 8 pence for 59 weeks. This included an allowance for Edwin’s three children.

Chadwick, William – born 1901, son of Charles and Elizabeth Ann Chadwick. The family lived at 4 Herbert Street, Cottingley where William was a woolcomber. William served as Private 99462 in the 1/7th Battalion of the King’s Liverpool Regiment and died from head and knee wounds received in action on 20th June 1918. William is buried in the Pernes British Cemetery. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals.

Coghlan, Denis Vincent – born 30th March 1894, son of Daniel Coghlan. In 1911 Denis was an apprentice tailor living at 83 Birch Lane, Bradford. Denis served as Private 1400 in the West Yorkshire Regiment, going into action in France on 16th April 1915. On 3rd February 1919 he was discharged to a commission as 2nd Lieutenant with the Connaught Rangers. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal. From 1918 to 1921 Denis lived with his father and step-mother at 23 North Bank Road, Shipley. In 1924 Denis travelled to Java. He died at Bradford in 1974.

Collis, James John – born in 1890 at Southwark, London, one of nine children of Edward Collis, a contractor’s carman, and his wife Charlotte. On 3^rd May 1913 James, a polisher, married Caroline Agnes Webster at St. Mark’s Church, Manningham. They subsequently had four children, Alice G., Charles E., Charlotte A. and Lilian S. James, of 61 North Bank Road, Stoney Ridge, attested at Bradford on 30^th January 1915 and was posted to the 6^th Battalion of the West Yorkshire Regiment as Private No. 4053.  At this time James was a woolcomber by trade. He later transferred to the 5^th Battalion with service No. 241419. James first saw action abroad on 7^th January 1917 and was admitted to hospital with scabies shortly afterwards. On 9^th May 1917 James was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal. For a short time in July 1917 James was attached to the 17^th Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment. On 20^th November 1917 James suffered a gun shot wound to his left arm and on 12^th December 1917 he was transferred to England by the Hospital Ship St. Patrick and remained in hospital until 16^th April 1918. James was disembodied on 3^rd June 1919. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. After the war James and his family lived at 63a North Bank Road for several years.

Craven, Arthur Edward – born 11th November 1895, son of James Craven and his wife Sarah (nee Briggs). In 1915 Arthur enlisted in the Royal Army Medical Corps. He was assistant scoutmaster of the 1^st Cottingley Troop, 48^th Bradford. Arthur was a worsted spinner before the war. It is possible that Arthur was the Private Arthur E Craven who served in the RAMC (63251) and the Labour Corps (521126). He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. After the war Arthur, now a tailor and resident at 18 Hollings Street, Cottingley, married Dorothy Lambert at St. Barnabas Church, Heaton on 25^th July 1921.

Craven, George – born in 1878 at Terrington, near Malton, son of James Craven, an agricultural labourer, and his wife Ann. George was a farm labourer throughout his life, first at Terrington, then Malton, then Cottingley. George married Ellen Agnes Smith in 1901 and they subsequently had seven children. No record has been traced of George’s military service. After the war George and family settled at 6 Herbert Street, Cottingley.

Craven, Harry – born at Stoney Ridge in 1898, the eldest of six children of Fred Craven, a stone quarryman, and his wife Maria (nee Hirst). The family home was at 9 North Bank Road and it was to here that Harry returned after the end of hostilities. The only reference to Harry’s military involvement appeared in the Bradford Weekly Telegraph of 1^st November 1918 which said: CRAVEN, Gunner Harry of Stoney Ridge near Bingley has been gassed and wounded, and is now in hospital in England. A possible candidate is Private 3002 and 235206 Harry Craven, Yorkshire Regiment, who enlisted on 26th October 1914 and was discharged on 22nd November 1918, age 20, due to wounds. He served overseas and was awarded the Victory medal, British War medal and Silver War Badge. On 1^st December 1921 Harry married Alice Mais at St. Michael’s Church, Cottingley. Their daughter, Margaret, was born on 29^th November 1922.

Craven, Matthew Henry – born at Queensbury on 11^th September 1898,son of James Craven and his wife Sarah (nee Briggs) and brother of Arthur Edward (see above). Matthew was  a worsted spinner before the war. It is possible that Matthew was the Private M. H. Craven who served in the Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry (Private 68864). He served from 19^th August 1918 to 27^th December 1918 and was discharged, aged 20, due to illness. He was awarded a Silver War Badge.

Craven, Stanley Smith aka Smith, Stanley Craven – Stanley Craven Smith was born on 21^st June 1899 at Malton, the son of Ellen Agnes Smith. Stanley’s mother later married George Craven. Stanley spent his early years at Malton and not until the war years did he appear in Cottingley with the Craven family. Private 63724 Stanley Craven Smith served in the West Yorkshire Regiment and was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. In December 1921 Stanley married Florence May Wainwright and set up home at 6 Herbert Street, Cottingley. In 1965, a widower then residing at 27 Manor Road, Cottingley, he married again, Elizabeth Neale, a widow. He died in 1979.

Crook, S. M. – No records have been found of anyone of this name being associated with the village of Cottingley or nearby. It may, however, have been John Crook who is registered as living in Cottingley from 1919 to 1959, first at 62 Hollings Street, then 2 Mitton Street and finally at 7 Quebec. If so, he was born on 1st September 1886 at Wilsden, son of William Crook, a weaver, and his wife Ellen Esther (nee Smith). In 1911 John was a Private in the 1st Lancashire Fusiliers. On 7th January 1913 he married Phyllis Elizabeth Goode. At this time he stated that his occupation was a tramway conductor. In 1918 he was registered (as an absentee) at 18 Hollings Street, Cottingley and had voting rights through naval or military qualification.

Crowther, Tom – born 1887, son of Jonas and Emma Crowther (nee Steel). In 1911 he was manager of the Royal Hotel at Pudsey. On 28th August 1915 Tom married Clara Isabel Ferguson and they subsequently had a son, Thomas William. Tom enlisted on 10th September 1914 serving initially as Private 253 in the West Yorkshire Regiment. He was later promoted to the rank of sergeant and transferred to the Labour Corps. His first action overseas was in France on 6th December 1915. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal. From 1918 to 1931 Tom was resident at 1 Town Hill Street, Cottingley.

Davis, John – From 1918 to 1922 lived at Riversdene, Cottingley.

Dawson, Walter – born at Baildon in 1886, son of William and Rhoda Dawson. In 1911 he was a planing machine operator living at 5 Queens Road, Shipley. On 4th May 1912 Walter married Laura Longley. Walter and Laura lived at various addresses in Cottingley including 26 Main Street from 1919 to 1929.

Dean, Francis Nicholson – M. M. – born at Girlington on 7^th September 1885, the only child of Joseph Dean, a spinning overlooker, and his wife, Clara (nee Renton). Frank, of 4 Strand, Cottingley, had originally attested with the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry on 25^th June 1902 at the age of 17 years and 9 months but must have changed his mind (or had it changed for him) as he was discharged just three days later “by purchase on payment of £1”. At this time Frank was employed as a chemist by F. K. Taylor. Frank must have yearned for a military career as he joined the Royal Engineers on 18^th August 1908. At the time of the 1911 Census Frank, aged 25 years, was on military service in Egypt where he was a fitter in the 2^nd (Field) Company, Royal Engineers. At the outbreak of war he was on active service in Egypt where he remained until 4^th November 1914. He was then transferred to France where he rose to the rank of Lance Corporal. He joined the Royal Flying Corps on 2^nd June 1916 and was promoted to the rank of Flight Sergeant on 1^st October 1917. On the 1^st April 1918 the Royal Air Force was formed and Frank became a Chief Mechanic paid at the rate of 7 shillings. Frank was transferred to the RAF Reserve on 23^rd July 1920 and was discharged on 17^th August 1920, after 12 years service, to The Grange, Cottingley. Frank was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1914 Star as well as the Military Medal, for gallant conduct while in the Royal Engineers. He was also awarded a Mark Of Distinction to the 1914 Star. The London Gazette of 10^th November 1916 included the following announcement: His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to award the Military Medal for bravery in the field to the under-mentioned Non-Commissioned Officers and Men:- 28666 2^nd Class Air Mechanic F. Dean R.F.C. On 1^st September 1917 Francis married Bertha Horne. For several years the family home was at The Grange, Cottingley, then Grammar School House, Bingley (1922 – 1932), 28 Prospect Street, Bingley (1934 – 1936) and finally 35 Kent Road, Bingley (1937 – 1952). Francis and Bertha had three children, Clara, Thomas Henry Dickenson and Joseph Nicholson. On 12^th January 1939 Frank enlisted as a volunteer for reserve training in Class “E” Reserves for four years as an Aircraftsman Second Class. The following day he was promoted to Sergeant. Francis died in 1953.

Dearden, Joseph Henry – born at Saltaire on 10^th May 1887, the second of four children of John Dearden, a machine cleaner, and his wife Julia Ann (nee Wright). In 1911 Joseph was a scourer living at 44 New Road Side, Thornton. Later in 1911 Joseph married Nellie Clarke and they set up home in Saltaire at 18 Fanny Street. At some stage Joseph resided at 5 Hollings Street, Cottingley and had a greengrocer’s business in the village. Joseph served in the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry during the First World War. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Denby, Norman – born on 28^th April 1887 at New Brighton, son of Abraham Rushforth Denby and his wife Ann (nee Normington) and brother of Sam (see below). Norman served as a Private, No. 80652, in the Royal Garrison Artillery. Norman enlisted at Bradford on 6^th December 1915, the same day as his brother, at the age of 28 years and 222 days. By this time, Norman, who was a foreman pattern room man by occupation, employed by J Burbeck & Co., Beckover Street, Bradford,  and living at 13 Stone Street, Sandy Lane, had married Annie Slater – on 13^th November 1915. Norman was not mobilised until 15^th May 1916 when he was posted as a Gunner and joined the Heavy Battery. Norman went to France as part of the British Expeditionary Force on 4^th December 1916, where he served until 27th January 1919. In 1917 and 1918 Norman had two periods in hospital (in France) due to illness, then, after the cessation of hostilities and after a period of leave to home, Norman contacted the dreaded influenza in January 1919 and spent three weeks in Queen Mary’s Military Hospital, Whalley, Lancashire. Norman was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Denby, Sam – born 1890, son of Abraham Rushforth Denby and his wife Ann (nee Normington) and brother of Norman (see above). The family lived at 21 Lynwood Terrace, Cottingley where Sam was a joiner by trade. He attested at Bingley on 6th December 1915 but was not mobilised until 9th February 1916 when he was posted to the 3/7th Battalion of the West Riding Regiment as Private No.268073. Sam was killed in action on 6th May 1918 and is commemorated at Etaples Military Cemetery. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals.

Dibb, Frank Wade – born at Bingley on 27^th April 1897, the younger of two sons of William Dibb, a farmer, and his wife Elizabeth Hannah (nee Wade). Before the war the family lived at Hill Top Farm, Cottingley. Frank attested at Bradford on 12^th April 1915. He was assigned to the 2/2 West Riding Brigade of the Royal Field Artillery as Gunner No. 2169. On 9^th July 1915 Frank was transferred to the 1^st West Riding Divisional Ambulance Company as  Driver 2180 and immediately sent to France, arriving the following day, where he stayed until 4^th September 1916. From this date Frank reverted to the rank of Gunner, with Regimental No. 796049, and was stationed at Ripon. A gun shot wound to his left ankle saw Frank discharged on 14^th December 1918. He was awarded a Silver War Badge, British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star. In 1918 Frank married Gladys Wade. They subsequently had two children, Clarice and William Wade.

Dinsdale, Arthur – born at Cottingley on 13^th April 1891, the son of John Dinsdale, a tanner’s labourer, and his wife Annie Elizabeth (Nee Buckle). Arthur’s early days were spent at Quebec, Cottingley then at 1 Hollings Street where, in 1911 at the age of 19, he was a stuff warehouseman. No records are available of Arthur’s military service. Arthur remained at 1 Hollings Street for many years after the war. In 1955 Arthur married Grace Horn.

Downing, Edward – born 25th August 1878, son of William and Ellen Downing. On 2nd December 1905 Edward, a farm labourer of New Close Farm, Cottingley, married Ethel Holmes at Shipley Parish Church. In 1911 Edward was a farmer living with his family at Cliffe Farm, Cottingley. After the war the family resided at 38 Hollings Street, Cottingley. Edward, of 1 The Bungalows, Manor Drive, Cottingley, died on 19th April 1951.

Driver, Edward – born at Bingley in 1874, the son of  Thomas Driver, a machine fitter, and his wife, Mary (nee Sutton). In 1897 Edward married Edith Close. Private 184546 Edward Driver served in the Labour Corps and was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal, indicating that he served abroad after 31^st December 1915.

Edmondson, Walter – born 1892, the son of Levi and Eliza Edmondson. The family lived at 14 Stoney Ridge, Shipley and Walter was a wool sorter. In 1915 Walter married Annie Jefferies and they had one son, Ronald. Walter attested at Shipley on 12th December 1915 and was posted to the Royal Garrison Artillery as Gunner No. 81400 on 12th May 1916. On 21st November 1916 he disembarked at Havre, France and died of wounds received in action at 1 Australian Casualty Clearing Station, France on 1st May 1918. Walter is buried at the Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals. Walter had been a playing member of Saltaire Cricket Club and the team wore black rosettes in memory of Walter at their match on Saturday 18th May 1918. Walter’s name also appears on the Roll Of Honour of St. Peter’s Church, Shipley.

Fielding, Alfred Redvers – born 23rd March 1900, son of Fred and Grace Fielding. Alfred, a wool sorter of 25 Lynwood Terrace, Cottingley, attested on 24th April 1918 and joined the Durham Light Infantry, serving as Private 11087. In March 1919 he was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal but in June of that year he reverted to Private. He was transferred to the Army Reserve on 6th February 1920. On 4th May 1927 he married Frances Pernell. They subsequently had three children, Alfred, Margaret and Harold. He died on 26th May 1966 at Cottingley.

Fielding, Arthur – born 1884 at Cottingley, son of Robert and Maria Fielding (nee Livock). In 1909 he married Sarah Jane Denby. They subsequently lived at 2 Hollings Street, Cottingley and in 1911, when Arthur was a stuff warehouseman, they had twin children, George and Norah, the latter of whom died shortly after birth. Although no record of his military service has been found, he certainly served in France and a photograph of him in uniform is shown alongside.

Fielding, Ernest – born 1896 at Cottingley, son of Fred and Grace Fielding and brother of Alfred Redvers Fielding. In 1911 Ernest was a hairdresser living at 42 Main Street, Cottingley. By the time of his attestation, on 13th November 1916, he had become a tailor. Ernest served as Private 202431 in the 1st Reserve Battalion of the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, then transferred, just two days later, to the Durham Light Infantry. From 12th March 1917 until 20th March 1917 was in France in transit to Salonika where he served until 23rd October 1918. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals. On 7th July 1920 Ernest married Frances Mary Loveday.

Fielding, Fred – born 28th November 1887 at Cottingley, son of Robert and Maria Fielding (nee Livock). In 1911 Fred was a gentleman’s gardener living at 2 Herbert Street, Cottingley. On 13th November 1913 Fred married Elizabeth Taylor at Cottingley Town Hall. They subsequently had two children, Dorothy and Thomas. Fred was the proprietor of the Fish & Chip Shop at the bottom of Main Street, Cottingley which he built in 1928 and operated for many years.

Fielding, Henry – born on 7th August 1896, son of Robert and Maria Fielding (nee Livock). In 1911 Henry was a spinner living at 2 Herbert Street, Cottingley. By the time he attested, on 2nd December 1915, he was a warehouseman with Birkbeck’s Wool Company in Bradford. Henry served as Private 18006 in the West Riding Regiment and 56504 in the York and Lancaster Regiment. Henry served overseas in France and Italy where he was awarded the Croce Di Guerra.The citation for this award read “During the operations across the Piave on October 27 1918, this man was runner to his Company Commander. He carried out his duties with the utmost disregard for personal safety, constantly having to cross open fields which were under heavy fire. He never failed to deliver his messages with the utmost despatch. Several critical situations were quickly dealt with owing to the speed with which he carried various orders”. He was also awarded the Victory and British War medals. In 1924 he married Sarah Lee at Cottingley Town Hall. They subsequently had a son, Raymond. Henry died in 1978.

Fielding, Herbert – born 5th March 1890, son of Robert and Maria Fielding (nee Livock). In 1911 he was a tailor living at 2 Herbert Street, Cottingley. On 29th June 1917 Herbert enlisted with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve with number F32263. He spent nine months aboard President II before joining the Royal Air Force, as Air Mechanic 3 – Rigger (Aero), on its formation on 1st April 1918. Herbert was awarded the British Medal (RN). In 1915 Herbert married Eleanor Miller and they subsequently had a son, Stanley. Herbert died in 1956.

Fielding, Percy – born at Cottingley on 10th November 1885, son of Robert Fielding and his wife Maria (nee Livock) and one of five brothers who served in WW1. In 1909 Percy married Elizabeth Jane Whitaker and they subsequently had two daughters, Evelyn and Olive. In 1911 the family lived at 22 Smith Street at which time Percy was a worsted warp twister, employed by Messrs.  Charles Sowden and Sons of Allerton. Percy served as Private 45674 in the Northumberland Fusiliers and was killed in action on 20th September 1917 during the battle of Menin Road Bridge (Passchendaele). He is commemorated at the Tyne Cot Memorial. Percy was awarded the VIctory and British War medals.

Fisher, Bertie – born 28th October 1884, son of Walter and Margaret Fisher. In 1911 he was a pattern maker engineer living at 79 Spencer Street, Keighley. On 29th August 1911 Bertie married Gertrude Angless and they subsequently had three children, Mary, Kathleen and Sheila. After the war the family lived at 37 North Bank Road, Shipley. Bertie died on 7th February 1944.

Fleming, Walter – born 1891, son of James Edward and Mary Ann Fleming. In 1911 Walter was assisting on his father’s farm at Wadsworth, Hebden Bridge. Walter enlisted at Halifax in September 1916 and was assigned No. 40700 in the 3rd Battalion of the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. He was sent to Newcastle where, on arrival, he was found to be ill and sent to hospital, where he died of pneumonia on 5th October 1916. Walter is buried at Cross Lanes United Methodist Chapel, Hebden Bridge. Prior to joning the army, Walter was employed by Enoch Holmes at Stock-a-Close Farm, Cottingley.

Fletcher, William – born at Yeadon in 1884, the youngest of five children of John Henry Fletcher, a brick maker, and his wife Martha (nee Tempest). William followed his father by becoming a brick maker and lived in Yeadon until 1913. In 1909 William married Elizabeth Harrison and in 1910 they had a son, Leonard Tempest Fletcher. In 1913 William and family moved to 50 Hollings Street, Cottingley. No record of William’s military service has yet been traced. After the war William and family returned to Yeadon.

Fox, Robert Edmondson – born 7th March 1885 at 42 Agar Street, Manningham, the son of John Edward Fox and his wife, Mary Edmondson Fox (nee Barraclough). In 1911 he was a milk salesman living at Norr Hill Farm, Wilsden. Robert served as Private 3203 in the Durham Light Infantry and, later, 40388 in the 16th Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers. Robert died on 10th February 1917 and is commemorated at the Serre Road Cemetery No. 1. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals.

Frear, Albert – D. C. M. – born at Gilstead on 10^th September 1889, one of 11 children of John Frear, a stone miner, and his wife, Emily (nee Croft). The family settled at 5 Mitton Street, Cottingley and there, in 1911, Albert was recorded as being a warp twister. On 4^th July 1912, Albert married Eliza Ann Longley at St. Michael’s Church, Cottingley. Albert attested at Bradford on 18^th November 1915 at the age of 25 years and 69 days. On 7^th April 1916 Albert was mobilised as Private 5894 with the 3/6^th Battalion of the Duke Of Wellington’s West Riding Regiment. On 18^th October 1916 Albert was sent to France where he joined the 34^th Infantry Base Depot at Etaples. On 4^th November 1916 he was posted to the 2^nd Battalion, Duke Of Wellington’s West Riding Regiment and given regimental number 24449. On 13^th July 1917 Albert was promoted to the rank of Corporal, then on 18^th June 1918 to Acting Sergeant. On 2^nd November 1918 Albert returned to England and transferred to reserve on demobilisation on 17^th March 1919. He was finally discharged on 31^st March 1920. The London Gazette of 2^nd December 1919 included the following entry: 24449 Sjt. A. Frear, 2^nd Bn., W. Rid. R. (Cottingley). During the operation on the 24^th October, 1918, during the attack on the high ground east of Verchain, he assumed command of his platoon on his officer becoming a casualty, and behaved with splendid gallantry. When attacking the quarry north west of Mur Copse an enemy machine gun was causing considerable trouble. He dashed forward and put the machine gun out of action by killing the gunner. The remainder of the team surrendered. Throughout the operation he showed complete disregard for his personal safety, and he did excellent work. Albert was also awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Albert was presented with his Distinguished Conduct Medal at Cottingley Town Hall on Monday 5^th May 1919. After the war Albert and Eliza, together with daughters Hilda and Constance, resided at 60 Hollings Street, Cottingley for several years before moving to 47 Manor Road, Cottingley. Albert Frear died in 1967.

Frear, Alfred – born 1896, a son of John and Emily Frear and one of four brother to serve in WW1. He was also one of two brothers to die on active service. In 1911 Alfred was a doffer in a worsted mill, living at 5 Mitton Street, Cottingley. Alfred served as Private 31289 in the West Riding Regiment and GS66879 in the 23rd Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers. Alfred was killed in action on 25th March 1918 and is commemorated at the Arras Memorial. He was awrded the Victory and British War medals.

Frear, Herbert – born at Gilstead in 1897, the son of Jim Frear, an iron moulder, and his wife, Betsy (nee Butterfield). Herbert, an iron moulder of 3 Mitton Street, Cottingley, attested at Bradford on 14^th January 1916 at the age of 18 years and 106 days and was immediately placed on reserve. He was called up on 26^th May 1916 and posted to the West Yorkshire Regiment with regimental number 23409. On 15^th December 1916, Herbert was transferred to the 6^th Battalion, York & Lancaster Regiment and the following day embarked for France at Folkestone, disembarking at Boulogne. On 10^th January 1917 Herbert joined the 2^nd Battalion, York & Lancaster Regiment and on 27^th January 1917 was admitted to hospital due to illness. He rejoined the battalion three days later but was wounded in action on 22^nd April 1917. The head wound was sufficiently serious for Herbert to be sent back to England aboard the Hospital Ship, St. Patrick on 29^th April 1917. He spent four months in various hospitals including Oxford and Winslow. On 22^nd January 1918 Herbert was transferred to the Royal Engineers (Railway Troops) then on 15^th May 1918 to the 18^th Battalion, York & Lancaster Regiment. Herbert remained in England until 3^rd July 1918 when he was posted back to France having been promoted to the rank of Corporal. On 10^th November 1918 Herbert was suffering from the effects of gas and returned to England where he spent a month in hospital at Derby. Herbert was discharged on 19th February 1919 with a 20% degree of disablement and a weekly pension of 6 shillings. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Herbert returned to 3 Mitton Street, Cottingley after the war and in 1920 married Ada Whitaker. They subsequently lived at 17 Main Street, 5 Mitton Street and 12 Manor Road, Cottingley. He Frear died in 1961.

Frear, John – born 1887, a son of John and Emily Frear and brother of Albert, Alfred and Richard (see above and below). John was a stone quarryman, employed by Sam Kay of Heaton, who married Lizzie Preston on 20th May 1911. John and Lizzie had a son, Harry, but unfortunately Lizzie died later that year. John was called up on 8th July 1916 and in December that year embarked for France. John served in the 3/9th Battalion of the West Riding Regiment eventaully rising to the rank of Sergeant. His service number was 23080. John was wounded several times during his service which ended when he was killed in action on 19th October 1918. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals and is commemorated at Cross Roads Cemetery, Fontaine-Au-Bois.

Frear, Richard – brother of John and Alfred, was born at Bingley in 1899. No record of his military service has been found. Richard, aged 24 years and a labourer of 2 West Avenue, Sandy Lane, married Edith Mary Hook at St. Barnabas Church, Heaton on 27^th October 1923. Their son Thomas was born the following year.

Garey, Arthur – born at Cottingley in 1876, the eldest of four children of Henry Garey, a worsted weaving overlooker, and his wife, Harriet (nee Morris). Arthur was a stuff warehouseman and lived his whole life at New Brighton. No trace has yet been found of Arthur’s military service. Arthur died on 29^th March 1926, aged 49, at Bingley Cottage Hospital. His estate was valued at £1,022.19s.11d.

Gilbank, Albert – born 1882, son of William and Eleanor Gilbank. In 1909 Albert married Bertha May Thompson at Tetbury, Gloucestershire. When Albert enlisted on 8th May 1916 he was a lodging house proprietor at 5 Hollings Street, Cottingley. Albert was a private (No. 32108 and 70575) in the Durham Light Infantry. He saw service in France and Salonika, where he contacted malaria in 1917. Albert was discharged on 8th September 1918 having been awarded the Victory and British War medals.

Goode, John Charles – born at Bingley on 5^th June 1893, the second son of  Isaac Goode, a railway signalman, and his wife, Mary (nee Hall). The family home was at 16 Main Street, Bingley and there, in 1911, John was recorded as being a gardener. He joined the Royal Naval Air Service on 25^th February 1918 and was given the rank of Acting Air Mechanic 1^st Class . His civilian occupation at this time was a fitter. After training aboard various ships, including President II, John joined the Royal Air Force on its formation on 1^st April 1918 with the rank of Air Mechanic 2^nd Class at a rate of pay of 3 shillings per day. On 14^th April 1918 John was transferred to 1 Squadron and, two days later, he became part of the British Expeditionary Force in France.  The squadron supported the army and was part of  the 9^th (GHQ) Brigade when hostilities ceased on 11^th November 1918. John remained in France until 15^th May 1919.On his return home, John was transferred to the RAF Reserve on 17^th June 1919 with the rank of Aircraftsman 1^st Class.He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. On 30^th January 1917 John married Ethel Dinsdale at St.Michael’s Church, Cottingley. When John joined the RNAS the family home was at 1 Hollings Street, Cottingley. They subsequently lived at 13 Quebec, 21 Quebec, 1 Woodlands Grove and 26 Roundhill Mount in Cottingley.

Graeme, William Thomas – William Thomas Graeme’s name appeared on the Electoral Register for the Shipley Constituency in 1918 and 1919. He was resident at 16 Stoney Ridge Road along with John Arthur Woodhouse and Louisa Woodhouse. Both William Thomas Graeme and John Arthur Woodhouse were absent from their home address and had gained their right to vote through Naval or Military qualification. There exists a Medal Rolls Index Card for a Wm. T. Graeme who served as a Gunner in the Royal Field Artillery with service numbers 1426 and 715693. He was awarded the British war Medal and the Victory Medal. This may have been William Thomas Graeme but there is no conclusive evidence to prove it.

Greenwood, John Thomas – born 1875, son of John and Nancy Greenwood. On 25th September 1897 John married Emma Jane Knott at Calverley. In 1911 he was a grease extractor employed by W. R. Kay Limited at Cottingley Mills. From 1918 to 1930 the family lived at 6 Smith Street, Cottingley.

Greenwood, William – born at Shipley in 1896, the son of Emma Jane Knott. William’s mother married John Thomas Greenwood at Calverley on 25^th September 1897. In 1911 the family were residing at 6 Smith Street, Cottingley, at which time, aged 14, William was a wool comber. The Keighley News of 15^th January 1916 included the following article: ROLL OF HONOUR – Mr William Greenwood, son of Mr J Greenwood, Smith Street, Cottingley, has enlisted in the Irish Fusiliers and proceeded to take up his duties in Ireland last Tuesday. Previous to joining the forces Mr Greenwood was a student-teacher at Holy Trinity School, Bingley and formerly a student at Bingley Grammar School. William lived at 6 Smith Street, Cottingley for some time after the war.

Griffiths, Arthur – born 1881 at Chester, son of George and Frances Griffiths. On 26th December 1905 he married Annie Curtis. Their daughter Frances Mary (born 4th September 1907) gained notoriety towards the end of WW1 for her photography, with her cousin Elsie Wright, of fairies in Cottingley Beck. Arthur joined the Royal Garrison Artillery on 20th March 1899 and subsequently served in South Africa (in the Boer war), Gibraltar and Malta. From 5th December 1917 to 12th April 1919 he served in France attaining the rank of Warrant Officer. As well as the Victory and British War medals Arthur was awarded the Meritous Service Medal “in recognition of valuable services rendered with the armies in France and Flanders”. The family were resident at 31 Main Street, Cottingley (also known as 31 Lynwood Terrace) from 1917 to 1920 after which they moved to Scarborough.

Haigh, Walter – born on 21^st January 1886, son of John Haigh, a warp dresser, and his wife, Alice (nee Boocock). In 1911 Walter was a joiner in a joinery works and living with his parents at 4 Mitton Street, Cottingley. On 23^rd February 1916 Walter married Mary Elizabeth Ratcliffe at the Wesleyan Chapel, Girlington Road, Bradford.

Haigh, William – born in 1881, he was the elder of the two sons of John Haigh, a warp dresser, and his wife, Alice (nee Boocock). In 1911 William was a carting agent, living at 4 Mitton Street, Cottingley. In 1913 William married Violetta Webster and they subsequently had two children, Jack and Alice. The family settled at 22 Hollings Street, Cottingley. During the war William served as Private 23336 in the West Riding Regiment and Private 044538 in the Army Ordnance Corps, being awarded the Victory and British war medals. Later, he also received a medal, issued by King George V, “For faithful service in the Special Constabulary”.

Hainsworth, Benjamin – born at Shipley in 1877, son of Joshua Hainsworth, a brick layer, and his wife, Elisabeth (nee Holdfield). The family lived at Regent Street, Shipley, where, in 1891, at the age of 14, Benjamin was a mill hand. On 3^rd October 1903 Benjamin married Emma Higgins at Shipley Parish Church. Their first child, Henry, was born in 1915. In 1911 Benjamin was a mason’s labourer. After the war Benjamin and family made their home at 12 Smith Street, Cottingley. No trace has been found of Benjamin’s military service.

Hardaker, Fred – born at Cottingley on 27^th January 1890, the only child of John Hardaker, a worsted weaver, and his wife, Rachel (nee Whittingham). In 1911 Fred was a warehouseman living at 4 Hird Street, Cottingley. On 27^th March 1915 Fred married Ellen Parrington at St. Augustine’s Church, Bradford. Private 6150 Fred Hardaker served with the Northumberland Fusiliers and first went into action in France on 9^th September 1915. Fred was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star.

Hardy, Fred – born 18th June 1899, son of Joshua Luther Hardy and his wife, Hannah. Fred, an operative dyer of 10 New Brighton, Cottingley, attested at Halifax on 10th November 1917. He served as Private 166037, 91965 and 46432 in the Durham Light Infantry, the last of those postings in the 15th Battalion. He had previously been employed by Lister & Co. Ltd. at Manningham Mills. Fred was killed in action on 15th August 1918 and is buried at Serre Road Cemetery No. 1. Fred was awarded the Victory and British War medals. Fred’s name also appears on the Roll Of Honour of St. Peter’s Church, Shipley.

Harland, Sidney – born 13th February 1896, a son of Richard Arthur Frank and Adelaide Harland of 14 Hollings Street, Cottingley. He attended Bingley Grammar School. Sidney started his military career as Private No. 54/125822 in the Army Service Corps and first saw action in France on 22nd August 1915. In 1917 he received a commission and served as 2nd Lieutenant in the 214th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. Sidney died on 25th May 1918 and is commemorated at Beacon Cemetery, Sailly-Laurette. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal. Sidney’s name also appears on the Roll Of Honour of Bingley Grammar School.

Harland, Tom Morley – born at Cottingley on 23^rd September 1891, the oldest of three children of Richard Arthur Frank Harland, a warehouseman, and Adelaide (nee Morley), his wife. Tom attended Cottingley Primary School until 12 years of age, followed by Salts High School, Shipley for six and a half years. In 1911, aged 19, Tom was at St. Mark’s College, Chelsea where he was a student at the training college. From August 1910 to August 1912 Tom served in B Company, 10^th Middlesex Regiment, resigning voluntarily with the rank of Lance Corporal after two years service. From October 1912 to July 1915 Tom was a schoolmaster employed by West Riding County Council at Holy Trinity School, Bingley. Tom attested at Manchester on 9^th September 1915, aged 23 years 11 months, and joined the 136^th Heavy Battery of the Royal Garrison Artillery as a Gunner at Morecambe on 11^th September 1915. Tom rose through the ranks to the position of Sergeant before being discharged to a commission on 20^th March 1917. On 21^st March 1917 Tom was appointed 2^nd Lieutenant in the Royal Garrison Artillery, Special Reserve. From June 1918 to February 1919 Tom was Acting Captain and Second-in-command of 434 Siege Battery of the Royal Garrison Artillery with a short period as Acting Major in Command. Tom resigned his commission on 6^th March 1920. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. In 1917 Tom married Mary Elizabeth Hartley at St. Helens, Lancashire. He died on 7^th October 1961 at which time his residence was at 7 Baden Terrace, Cleckheaton.

Heaton, Norman – born at Cottingley on 23^rd July 1890, the son of Craven Anderson Heaton, a tailor, and his wife, Sarah (nee Pickles). Norman’s youth was spent at 18 Smith Street, Cottingley. By 1911 the family had moved to 8 Main Street, Cottingley. At this time, Norman was a “market man” according to the census entry. On 2^nd June 1914 Norman, a fruiterer by trade, married Mary Elsie Woodley at St. Michael’s Church, Cottingley. They subsequently had two children, Kathleen and Tom Anderson both baptised at St. Michael’s Church, Cottingley.

Heaton, Thomas – born 1884, a son of John and Sarah Ann Heaton. In 1911 the family lived at 18 Main Street, Cottingley at which time Thomas was a labourer in a quarry, employed by Sam Kay of Heaton. Thomas served as Private 3/12584 in the 2nd Battalion of the West Riding Regiment, going overseas, to the Balkans, on 28th August 1915. Thomas was killed in action on 11th October 1916 and is buried at Grove Town Cemetery, Meaulte. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal.

Hewitt, Clifford George – born at Cottingley on 20^th August 1884, the elder of two sons of George Hewitt, a worsted weaving overlooker, and his wife, Rebecca (nee Rowbotham). In 1911  Clifford was  stuff merchant living at 38 Main Street, Cottingley. Later that year Clifford married Annie Pollard. Private 243021 Clifford G Hewitt served in the Northumberland Fusiliers and was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Post-war Clifford and Annie lived at 83 Cottingley Cliffe Road.

Hill, Thomas Henry – born at Bradford on 29^th July 1893, the elder of two sons of Thomas Hill, a master plumber, and his wife Clara (nee Milnes). In 1911 Thomas  was an apprentice to a wool merchant, living at Cliffe Villas, Cottingley. Thomas served in the Mechanical Transport section of the Army Service Corps.He married Winifred Sewell in 1920. When their daughter, Diana Carina, was born on 21^st February 1923  Thomas was a wool merchant living in Harrogate.

Hird, Frank – born at Cottingley on 13^th September 1884, one of five children of Benjamin Hird, a stone mason, and his wife Sarah Ann (nee Harrison). On 30^th January 1913 Frank emigrated to Australia, along with Harry Rowling, another Cottingley man. According to the passenger list Frank’s occupation was “drover”. On 16^th January 1915 Frank joined the 1^st Battalion of the 5^th Reinforcement of the Australian Imperial Force. His occupation at this time was a bricklayer. On 25^th June 1915 Frank embarked at Sydney bound for Gallipoli. Frank attained the rank of Corporal whilst serving in the A.I.F. Frank subsequently suffered several injuries. On 17^th August 1915 he suffered a fractured skull, on 21^st September 1915 he suffered a gun shot wound to his shoulder and on 22^nd July 1916 he suffered gun shot wounds to his legs. In early August 1916 he was transferred to England where he had his left leg amputated at Edmonton Hospital. He remained in hospital until 14^th April 1917. Frank was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1914/15 Star. Back in Australia, Frank settled in Victoria and, in 1920, married Jessie Vera Margaret Barns. The couple had one daughter, Margaret. Frank died at Olive Road, Devon Meadows, Cranbourne on 17^th February 1933.

Hirst, Alfred – born on 5^th September 1894, son of Alfred Hirst, a horse driver of Stoney Ridge, and his wife Sabina (nee Garnett). In 1911, at the age of 16, Alfred was an apprentice spinning overlooker living at Stoney Ridge. Alfred married Minnie Wright Waterhouse at St. Michael’s Church, Cottingley on 5^th February 1921. The couple subsequently had three children, Doreen, Jean and Geoffrey, all baptised at St. Michael’s Church.

Hirst, William – born in 1898, son of Alfred Hirst, a horse driver of Stoney Ridge, and his wife Sabina (nee Garnett) and brother of Alfred (see above). In 1911 William was a woollen spinner living at Stoney Ridge. Driver 294284 William Hirst attested on 14^th February 1917 at Bradford and was assigned to the Army Service Corps. By this time William was a cart driver by trade, which explains his military appointment. William embarked from Southampton on 17^th May 1917 and remained in France until 18^th February 1918. He returned to France on 6^th March 1918 and stayed until 24^th February 1920. He was discharged to 1 North Bank Road, Stoney Ridge on 24^th March 1920. William was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Hodgson, George – born at Bingley in 1898, the eldest of five children of Joseph Hodgson, a worsted weaving overlooker, and his wife Leah (nee Hill). In 1911 George was a worsted weft boy living at 1 Mitton Street, Cottingley. Details of George’s military service have not been discovered as yet.

Hodgson, Thomas Howcroft – born on 30^th January 1892, the second of five children of John William Hodgson, a wool warehouseman, and his wife Eliza. In 1911 Thomas was an assistant schoolmaster living at 28 Hollings Street, Cottingley. He was a former scholar at Bingley Grammar School and, prior to serving in the Army, was an assistant master at Baildon Woodbottom Council School, having gained a Senior Pass at Oxford University in 1908. Private 70312 Thomas Howcroft Hodgson enlisted in the Royal Army Medical Corps on 17^th October 1915. He served abroad and was discharged, due to sickness, on 6^th November 1917. Thomas was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and a Silver War Badge.

Hogg, William – born 1892 at Richmond, Yorkshire, son of Joseph and Annie Hogg. In 1911 William was a farm servant at New Close Farm, Cottingley. On 30th November 1915 William joined the 474th Agricultural Company of the Labour Corps, serving as Private No. 168627. He was mobilised on 4th May 1916 and posted to the 25th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry on 26th November 1916. On 20th August 1917 William married Mary Jane Wilson. A son, Joseph, was born in 1919.  After the war William lived at 61 North Bank Road, Shipley. William’s name appears on the Roll Of Honour of Saltaire village.

Holdstock, Albert Carr – born at Pool-In-Wharfedale in 1890, the elder son of Matthew Ledger Holdstock, an agricultural labourer, and his wife Jane Ann (nee Carr). In 1911 Albert was a warehouseman living at 4 Hird Street, Cottingley. In 1913, Albert married Sarah Eveline Smith and they subsequently had two sons, Joseph Priestley and Geoffrey. No record has yet been found of Albert’s military service.

Holdstock, Henry – born 13th October 1893, a son of Matthew Ledger Holdstock and his wife, Jane Ann. In 1911 Harry, as he was known, was a farm servant employed by Ezra Whatmuff at West House Farm, Sandy Lane but was later employed by W. R. Kay Ltd at Cottingley Mills. He joined the 9th Battalion West Riding Regiment in September 1914, serving as Private No. 3/11811. Henry was reported wounded and missing on 19th December 1915 and recorded as having died on 20th December 1915. He is commemorated at the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal.

Holmes, Clough – born 1889, son of John and Mary Ninah Holmes (nee White). In 1911 he was a self-employed butcher living at 8 Duckworth Grove, Bradford but later resided at Hillcrest, Stoney Ridge. His butcher’s business was in Whetley Lane. Clough served as Private 16/1121 in the 16th Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment and was killed in action on the first day of the battle of the Somme – 1st July 1916. He had first seen action in France on 22nd December 1915 and was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British war medal. Clough was buried at Railway Hollow Cemetery, Hebuterne. Clough’s name also appears on the Roll Of Honour of St. Peter’s Church, Shipley.

Holmes, George Arthur – born at Bradford on 14^th November 1885, the youngest of three children of George Holmes, a stuff manufacturer, and his wife, Mary Emma (nee Milner). In 1911 George was a dress goods merchant living at Cottingley Grange with his widowed mother.  On 5^th September 1914, George enlisted in the 6^th Service Battalion, Cameron Highlanders. He had previously served in the West Yorkshire Regiment of Volunteers. On 22^nd September of that year he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. On 23^rd February 1915 George was discharged on being granted a commission with the Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. George was appointed a Temporary 2^nd Lieutenant and, at one time, a Temporary Lieutenant. George was wounded several times. After the first occasion, at Le Sars on 1^st October 1916, he was transported home on the Hospital Ship “St. George” and subsequently spent some time in hospital at Edgbaston and the Bradford War Hospital. Whilst in hospital George had a finger amputated. On the second occasion, in June 1917, he was hospitalised at Worsley Hall and Manchester. George had been posted abroad for the first time on 27^th August 1915 and was subsequently awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star. In 1916 George married Ellen Catherine Mortimer and they made their family home at 2 Sherwood Grove Shipley for several years. George died in 1972.

Holmes, James – born at Bradford on 2^nd August 1882, the second son of John Holmes, a grocer, and his wife, Mary Vinah (nee White) and brother of Clough (see above). On 28^th March 1910 he married Mary Ann Raw at St. Barnabas Church, Heaton. In 1911 James was a stuff warehouseman living at 40 Stoney Ridge, Shipley with Mary and their son John. They subsequently had two more children, Frances and Margaret. James served in the West Yorkshire Regiment and at one time was gassed which resulted in him being hospitalised at Folkestone. After the war the family settled at 25 North Bank Road, Shipley for several years. James Holmes died in 1933.

Hopwood, Albert – born at Cottingley on 7^th October 1898, the eldest of five children of Samual Hopwood, a farm labourer of March Cote, Cottingley, and his wife Ada (nee Whittingham). In 1911 Albert was working part-time as a worsted spinner with the rest of his time being spent in school. The family home at this time was at Cottingley Bridge. Albert enlisted in the Royal Navy on 12^th July 1916 for a term of 5 + 7 years. Like other new recruits he started his career as an Ordinary Seaman (No. SS7528). After training aboard the Victory, Albert transferred to the Blenheim where he was promoted to Able Seaman. Subsequently Albert served aboard HMS Victory I, HMS Dido, HMS Hecla and HMS Sandhurst. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Albert’s home after the war was 1 Mitton Street, Cottingley for several years. Albert married Ivy Evelyn Hanslip at St. Peter’s Church, Shipley on 29^th July 1922. They subsequently had three sons, Eric, Leonard and Geoffrey.

Ives, Alfred – born 10th November 1886, son of Joshua and Ann Ives of Baildon. He was a worsted doffer on leaving school. He married Clara Hogg at Shipley Parish Church on 22^nd August 1908.  They subsequently had four children and lived in Saltaire for some time before moving to 1 Quebec, Cottingley after the war. Alfred died in 1951.Alfred’s name also appears on the Roll Of Honour of Saltaire village.

Ives, Joseph – born 10th February 1885, son of Joshua and Ann Ives of Baildon.In 1911 he was a plasterer living at 3 Town Hill Street, Cottingley. In 1912 he married Ethel Smith. They subsequently resided at 4 Strand, Cottingley.

Ives, Sydney Whitfield – born 22nd July 1895, son of Joshua and Ann Ives. In 1911 he was a gardener, living at 3 Town Hill Street, Cottingley, but when he attested on 2^nd March 1916 his occupation was a butcher. On 6^th May 1916 Sydney married Sarah Ann Naylor at St. Michael’s Church, Cottingley. Private S/307324 Sydney Whitfield Ives served in the Army Service Corps and travelled extensively abroad. In June 1917 he left Southampton for France then travelled to Taranto, Italy. From there Sydney went on to Salonica where he arrived on 15^th July 1917. On 18^th December 1919 Sydney left Constantinople for home. He was transferred to the Reserves on 29^th January 1920. Sydney was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. After the war, Sydney continued in his trade as a butcher, living at 1 Skirrow Street, Cottingley. Sydney is the only member of the Ives family whose military service record has been found.

Ives, Walter – born 6th August 1892, son of Joshua and Ann Ives. In 1911 he was a farm servant  but pre-war was employed by Walter R Kay Limited at Cottingley Mills. He served as Private 70313 in the Royal Army Medical Corps during the war. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal indicating that he served overseas. On 8^th January 1916 Walter married Elizabeth Crabtree at St. Peter’s Church, Shipley. They subsequently lived at Herbert Street, Shipley where they had two children. Walter’s name also appears on the Roll Of Honour of Saltaire village.

Jennings, Edward – born 1885, younger of two sons of John and Annie Jennings. In 1911 Edward was a card grinder living at 75 Crown Street, Bradford. The family later moved to Throstle Nest Farm, Cottingley. Edward served as Private No. 7244 in “A” Company, 1st Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment, first going into action on 13th August 1914, and died on 1st November 1914. He is commemorated at the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.  Edward was awarded the 1914 Star, Victory medal and British War medal.

Jennings, Harry – born 1884, son of John and Annie Jennings and brother of Edward (see above). In 1911 Harry was a mason’s labourer. Harry served as Private No. 32703 in the 7th Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment and was killed in action on 27th July 1917. Harry is also commemorated at the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial and was awarded the Victory and British War medals.

Kay, Harold Hodgson – born in 1878 in Manningham, son of John Kay, a stuff merchant, and his wife Margaret (nee Hodgson). In 1901 Harold was living with his brother Walter Ramsay Kay and his sister Laura Kay at Brookside, Cottingley. Walter and Harold were both woolcombers at this time. Walter Ramsay Kay was a director of W. R. Kay Limited at Cottingley Mills and was responsible for the plaque honouring the men of Cottingley who served in the First World War which is situated inside Cottingley Town Hall. In 1911 Harold was lodging, with several other families, at 25 Regents Square, London, where he was classified as being of “private means”. On 8^th January 1914 Harold married Ida Reynard at Knaresborough. Their daughter, Laura, was born in 1915. At the age of 37 years and 8 months, Harold attested at Ripon on 12^th December 1915. At this time Harold was living at 15 Caledonia Road, Leeds where he was a poultry farmer. Gunner 142997 Harold Hodgson Kay, Royal Garrison Artillery, was mobilised on 5^th March 1917 and posted overseas on 24^th July 1917. He served in 405 Siege Battery and returned to the UK for release on 5^th February 1919. At various times in his military career, Harold’s home address was Burnand House, Forest Moor, Knaresborogh, 5 Roseville Road, Harrogate and Clay Hall Farm, Thwaites Brow, Keighley. Harold was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Keighley, Snowden – M. M.  – born 1888, son of James Keighley and his wife Betty (nee Snowden). In 1911 Snowden was a pin setter living at Crapps Hall, Wilsden. He served as Private 18/203 in the 18th Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment and was later promoted to Lance Corporal in the 15/17th Battalion of the same regiment. Snowden’s first taste of action was in Egypt on 22nd December 1915. He died on 12th April 1918 and is commemorated at the Ploegsteert Memorial. Snowden was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal. The following article appeared in the Bradford Argus of 22^nd September 1917. Lance-Corpl. Snowden Keighley, of Wilsden, has been awarded the Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in the front line, Mericourt sector, during an attempted enemy raid. Although wounded in the arm by the opening bombardment he remained at his post and kept up a persistent fire on the enemy with his Lewis gun, showing much pluck and coolness under heavy enemy fire. It was not until two hours afterwards, when everything was quiet, that he consented to leave his post to have his wound dressed. Lance-Corpl. Snowden Keighley belongs to the 18^th P.W.O. West Yorkshire Regiment, and his officer and others speak in the highest terms of praise concerning his conduct. 

Kirby, Arthur – born 1887 in Barrowden, Rutlandshire, one of the eleven children of Thomas Kirby, a farm labourer, and his wife, Eliza (nee Lee). In 1908 Arthur, a farm servant, married Ellen Wilkinson. In 1911 they were living at 96 Woodhouse Grove, Sandy Lane at which time Arthur was a cotton weaver. Arthur served in the West Yorkshire Regiment and, at one time, was posted as missing.

Kirby, Charles – born 1879 in Barrowden, Rutlandshire, son of Thomas Kirby, a farm labourer, and his wife, Eliza (nee Lee). He was a farm servant of Ling Bob, Wilsden when he married Clara Whitaker on 20^th May 1899. By the time of the 1901 Census they had a daughter, Edna, and Charles was a factory waggoner. Charles’ wife Clara died in 1909. In 1911 Charles was living at Stock-a-house Cottage, Cottingley.

Kirby, Harold – born 1894 in Bradford, son of Thomas Kirby, a farm labourer, and his wife, Eliza (nee Lee). In 1911 he was a bobbin layer living at Stock-A-House Cottage. When he married Minnie Wharton at St. Barnabas’ Church, Heaton on 6^th September 1918, Harold was a soldier whose residence was 100 Woodhouse Grove, Sandy Lane. The Bradford Daily Telegraph of 10^th August 1916 reported: KIRBY, Pte. Harold. 2^nd Bradford “Pals” has been dangerously wounded in the lung, and is now in hospital in France. He resided at Stockhouse Cottages, Sandy Lane, Bradford.

Kirby, Willie – born 1892 in Bradford, son of Thomas Kirby, a farm labourer, and his wife, Eliza (nee Lee). Hewas a weaver and still living with his parents in 1911. Willie married Sarah Bowker in 1922. The Bradford Daily Telegraph of 17^th November 1917 reported: KIRBY, Pte. Willie, of Sandy Lane, has been wounded in the right arm, and is now in hospital at Epsom.

Lancaster, M – Nothing is known about this person. However, it may have been John Lancaster who was living at 25 New Brighton in 1911 when he was a vise miller. John  was born at Shipley in 1892, son of William Myers Lancaster, a life assurance agent, and his wife Jane. On 26th December 1910 John married Ada Keighley at St. Michael & All Angels’ Church, Cottingley. After the war they lived at 17 Thompson Street, Shipley.

Lee, Fred – born 21st November 1896 at Cottingley, son of Harry Watson Lee and his wife Mary. In 1911 Fred was a butcher’s boy living at 7 Skirrow Street, Cottingley where he resided until 1925. In 1922 Fred married Edith Greenwood. From 1934 the family lived at 15 Smith Street, Cottingley for many years.

Lee, Harold Jonathan – born at Bingley on 7^th July 1890, one of only four surviving out of nine children of James Lee, a stone mason, and his wife, Isabella (nee Rochester). On 4^th July 1910, at the age of 19 years, Harold, a warp twister, married Isabella Willis at Bingley Parish Church. In 1911 Harold was a warp twister living at 19 Leonard Street, Bingley. In 1915 Harold was registered at 4 Town Hill Street, Cottingley and this is where he was residing immediately after the war. No trace has been found of Harold’s military service.

Lister, Norman – born at Keighley  in 1894, the only child of Fred Lister, a foreman blacksmith, and his wife Mary Ann (nee Holdsworth). Norman’s father died in 1903 and his mother married James Myers. In 1911 Norman, a dyer’s finisher, was living at 19 Lynwood Terrace, Cottingley.  On 16^th October 1915 Norman, now a horse driver, married Elizabeth Topham at Bingley Parish Church. Their first son Edward was born the following year. Norman attested at Bingley on 12^th December 1915 but was not called up until 6^th June 1918. Private 60074 Norman Lister was posted to the 3^rd Battalion of the West Yorkshire Regiment and was sent overseas on 1^st October 1918. Norman was later transferred to the 9^th Battalion of the West Yorkshire Regiment. He returned to England for demobilization on 21^st February 1919. Norman was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Norman’s second son, Kenneth Holdsworth Lister, was killed in the Second World War (15^th September 1943) and is commemorated at the Salerno War Cemetery.

Lund, Percy Smith – also known as Percy Lund Smith – born on 3^rd January 1890 at Cottingley, son of Annie Rebecca Lund. In 1891 Percy and his mother were living with Annie’s parents and brother at Stock-a-close, Cottingley. In 1891 Percy’s mother married Henry Smith. In 1911 Percy was a warehouse worker living at 30 Hollings Street, Cottingley. In September 1915 Percy married Hannah Gladys Feather at Saltaire Wesleyan Church. Prior to the outbreak of war, Percy had been a member of the Shipley detachment of the West Riding Field Ambulance. Percy was appointed Corporal in the Royal Army Medical Corps with regimental No. 1572. Percy was posted to France on 16^th April 1915 and there he stayed until June 1917. He was recommended for a commission and trained at the Cadet School at Bath. On 30^th April 1918 Percy was appointed 2^nd Lieutenant with the Durham Light Infantry. Percy was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star.

Marsh, Arthur Edward – born 14th October 1896 at Malton, son of Samuel Edward Marsh (see below) and his wife Emily (nee Smith). In 1911 Arthur was a farm labourer living at Wath House, Hovingham. He was a stone quarryman when, on 9th September 1914 (under age), he enlisted in the Roayl Naval Volunteer Reserve. He served until 7th March 1919 although he does not appear to have seen active service. On 18th April 1918 Arthur married Blanche Harrison. After the war the family residence was at 16 Main Street, Cottingley.

Marsh, Samuel Edward – born @ 1876 in London, Samuel married Emily Smith in 1896. In 1911, when Samuel was a general dealer, the family lived at Swinton, Malton. After the war their residence was at 16 Main Street, Cottingley. Samuel died in 1945.

Metcalfe, Norman Sutton – born 1898, a son of Samuel and Bessie Metcalfe. In 1911 the family were living at 11 Lock View, Bingley. He had attended Bingley Grammar School and was a professional musician – a cello player – at the Dewsbury Empire Theatre. Norman was a private – No. 268341 – in 2/6th Battalion, West Riding Regiment and was killed in action on 3rd May 1917. He is commemorated at the Arras Memorial. Norman was awarded the Victory and British War medals. Norman’s name also appears on the Rolls Of Honour of Bingley Grammar school and St. Paul’s Church, Shipley.

Middleton, Joseph Irving – born 30th October 1894, son of Walter and Alice Middleton (nee Clarkson). In 1911 Joseph was a farm pupil at Brooke, Norfolk. He worked for his father at Cottingley Bridge before enlisting in the Hertfordshire Yeomanry on 20th October 1914. In February 1916 he was appointed Shoeing Smith and in December 1917 was posted to France. He was later transferred to Egypt where, in October 1918, he contacted malaria and dysentry. In February 1919 he returned home and spent some time in a Liverpool hospital before being discharged on 29th March 1919. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals. He returned to live at Cottingley Bridge House then, in 1923, he  married Flora Stenning. Joseph died in 1975.

Middleton, Maurice Broderick – born 29th May 1892, son of Walter and Alice Middleton (nee Clarkson). In 1911 he was still at school and living at Cottingley Bridge, his father’s home. Nothing is known about his military service.

Middleton, Walter – born 29th August 1887, son of  Walter and Alice Middleton (nee Clarkson). In 1911 he was a junior inspector with an insurance company, living at 7 St. Michael Square, Chapleltown, Leeds. On 18th October 1918, when he enlisted in the Royal Air Force, he was a surveyor and clerk. He served in the RAF as a fitter of aero engines until 27th February 1919.

Miller, John William – born about 1874, little is known about John’s origins or early life other than he was born at Fewston. On 17^th November 1894 John married Emily Watson. John and Emily subsequently had seven children. In 1911 John was a waller – mason, living at 2 Huntley Street, Valley Road, Shipley. Private 154970 John William Miller enlisted on 18^th April 1918 and attested at Halifax on 2^nd July 1918 at the age of 44 years and 56 days. He was immediately posted to the 7^th Battalion of the Royal Army Medical Corps and sent to Blackpool. On 6^th September 1918 John was posted for duty at Queen Mary’s Military Hospital, Whalley. He was demobilised on 16^th April 1919. After the war the family home was at 17 New Brighton. John died at 6 New Brighton on 20^th November 1956.

Milnes, Harold Carr – born 1891 at Elloughton, son of Alfred and Annie Elizabeth Milnes. In 1911 Harold was a gardener boarding at 2 Skirrow Street, Cottingley. Harold was a private (No. 16/1267) in the 16th Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment, first going into action in Egypt on 22nd December 1915. He was killed in action on 27th August 1917 and was buried at the Cement House Cemetery, Belgium. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal.

Moore, Alfred – born at Cottingley on 15^th July 1883, the son of John Moore, a butcher, and his wife Martha. In 1911 Alfred was a butcher living at 7 Town Hill Street, Cottingley.  Private 5199 Alfred Moore attested at Bingley on 7^th December 1915. Alfred was originally posted to the 7^th Battalion of the Duke Of Wellington’s West Riding Regiment and mobilised on 13^th July 1916. On 18^th October he was posted to France and joined the 34^th Infantry Base Depot at Etaples. On 16^th November 1916 Alfred was transferred to the 9^th Battalion of the Duke Of Wellington’s West Riding Regiment and allocated service no. 24573. On 10^th January 1919 Alfred was admitted to the 3^rd Australian Field Hospital at Abbeville with fractured ribs. He rejoined his battalion on 27^th January 1919 and returned to England for release on 4^th February 1919. Alfred was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.  After the war Alfred’s home was 26 Smith Street, Cottingley.

Morris, Fred – born at Cottingley in 1881, son of William Morris, a worsted weaver, and his wife, Mary (nee Hutchinson). In 1911 Fred was an iron moulder living at 10 Strand, Cottingley with his wife Annie.

Morris, George – born in 1884, son of William Morris, a worsted weaver, and his wife, Mary (nee Hutchinson). He married Emily Holdsworth on 13^th April 1910. In 1911  George was a coal merchant living at 50 Hollings Street, Cottingley. George and Emily subsequently settled at 15 Smith Street, Cottingley.

Mountain, Frank – born on 5^th August 1893, the oldest of five children of Samuel Mountain, a brewer of Queen’s Road, Shipley, and his wife Martha (nee Hare). In 1911 Frank was a brewer’s labourer, living at  Brewery Cottage, Bingley. On 29^th November 1913, he married Bertha Smith. A son, Samuel, was born the following year. After the war the family home was at 5 Skirrow Street, Cottingley for a few years before moving to 34 Smith Street, Cottingley then The Bungalows, Cottingley.

Murgatroyd, Denby – born 1st September 1898 and baptised at Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, Manningham on 6th October 1898, son of Samuel and Clara Murgatroyd of 9 Silver Street, Bradford. In 1901  he lived at 69 Cottingley Road, Allerton and 1911 at 40 Arnold Street, Bradford. In 1911 he was a part-time weft boy. By this time his father had died. Denby lived at 28 Smith Street, Cottingley after the war with his mother and her new husband, Richard Cundall, a confectioner. On 24th September 1927 he married Doris Ellen Wallbank at St. Paul’s Church, Manningham.

Myers, George Arthur – born at Cottingley on 2^nd July 1897, the son of James Myers, a stone mason, and his wife, Margaret (nee Dinsdale). In 1911 George was a worsted spinner living at 19 Lynwood Terrace, Cottingley. George attested at Bradford on 2^nd September 1914 and subsequently served as Private 11646 in the 8th Battalion of the West Riding Regiment. On attestation, George’s occupation was a motor assistant. George served in the Balkans from 2^nd July 1915 until 26^th October 1915 although his record was not spotless prior to being posted abroad. Twice George was absent from operations for two days and received appropriate punishment. On 11^th May 1916 George was discharged due to being wounded – he had a finger amputated – and he was issued with a Silver War Badge. He was also awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star. On 8^th September 1917 George married Margaret Webb.

Neale, Harold – born on 20^th September 1900 at Bingley, son of Samuel Halliday Neale (see below) and his wife Ruth (nee Wilks). In 1901 the family were at 14 Eldwick Beck, Bingley where Harold’s father was a stone mason’s labourer. Whatever happened between 1901 and 1911 is a mystery but at the time of the 1911 Census Harold was at Keighley Union Central Children’s Home. Harold’s mother, Ruth, died in 1915. Private 113485 Harold Neale enlisted in the Durham Light Infantry on 23^rd September 1918 and was called up to the 53^rd Battalion on 14^th October 1918. At the time of his enlistment, Harold was a woolcomber living at 37 Hanover Square, Manningham whilst his father was living at 10 Herbert Street, Cottingley. Harold must have served overseas as he was awarded a British War Medal and a Victory Medal. Harold was discharged on 13^th February 1919. Harold re-enlisted the following day and was allocated regimental no. 4437219. On 13^th October 1919 he was posted overseas and from 27^th October 1919 to 17^th January 1920 was serving in the Black Sea. On 4^th October 1920 Harold was discharged “no longer physically fit for war service” due to pulmonary tuberculosis. This gave him a 100% disability pension for 12 months

Neale, Samuel Halliday – born in 1874, the son of  David Neale, a plumber, and his wife, Ann (nee Halliday). In 1899 Samuel married Ruth Elizabeth Wilks. Their son Harold (see above) was born the following year. According to electoral registers, Samuel was living at Back Fold, Cottingley from 1908 to 1911, but there is no trace of Samuel and Ruth in the 1911 Census. His son Harold’s “residence” in 1911 might explain the position. Samuel enlisted in the West Riding Regiment on 9^th September 1914. As Private 13036 he first saw action in France on 27^th January 1915. He was discharged, due to wounds, on 26^th July 1916. Samuel received a Silver War Badge, a British War Medal, a Victory Medal and a 1915 Star

Nichols, Ernest – M.M.– born at Cottingley on 13^th December 1894, the son of Sarah Nichols, a drawer. In 1911 Ernest was a farm labourer living at 48 Main Street, Cottingley with his grandmother, Rebecca Nichols. Ernest attested at Bingley on 1^st September 1914. Private 12189 Ernest Nichols joined the 9^th Battalion of the West Riding Regiment and was posted overseas on 15^th July 1915. He had quite an interesting life in the trenches and out of them – in hospital for various reasons. He had also earned himself a couple of entries on his disciplinary record before going overseas. In October 1918 Ernest was gassed and consequently sent home. He was eventually transferred to the reserves on 18^th February 1919. As well as the Military Medal, Ernest was also awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal, the 1915 Star and a Silver War Badge. The award of the Military Medal was announced in The London Gazette of 16^th July 1918, however the exact circumstances in which Ernest received the award are not known. On 16^th November 1918 he married Annie Barwick. They subsequently had three daughters, Kate, Irene and Marie. In 1936 Ernest married Eileen Roberts Turner and they subsequently had two children, Hilda and Ernest.

Nichols, John – born at Cottingley in 1887, one of ten children of Joseph Nichols, a farm labourer, and his wife Rebecca (nee Webster).  In 1911 John was a gardener living with his widowed mother, two brothers and nephew, Ernest, at 48 Main Street, Cottingley.  John emigrated to Canada in October 1912. It is believed that John served in the Canadian Army during the 1^st World War. John married Mary Leach at Bingley Parish Church on 3^rd March 1918, his occupation at the time was a soldier. A son, Cyril Edward, was born in St. Catherines, Ontario in 1922. A daughter Phyllis Margaret was born at Bingley in  November 1923.The family home was at Stuart Avenue, St. Catherines, Ontario.

Ninnim, Ephraim – born 15th April 1889, only child of Robert and Esther Ninnim. In 1911 he was a machinist at a joinery works, employed by Atkinsons of Bingley, and living at 2 Mitton Street, Cottingley. Ephraim had served in the West Riding Regiment from 12th November 1907 to 31st March 1910. On 30th August 1912 Ephraim emigrated to Australia. On 17th April 1915 he enlisted in the 19th Battalion, Australian Infantry and on 12th May 1915 left Sydney for Gallipoli. On 23rd February 1918 Ephraim went on leave to the UK and whilst on leave married Catherine Barwick at Holy Trinity Church, Bingley on 2nd March 1918. On 11th March 1918 he rejoined his unit and was later promoted to Lance Corporal. Ephraim was killed in action on 2nd September 1918 and is buried at Daours Communal Cemetery Extension, France.

Paterson, Malcolm Bruce – born 23rd June 1893, son of Malcolm McCulloch Paterson and his wife, Constance. In 1911 Malcolm was a farm pupil at Suffield, Scarborough. He served as Private No. 16/687 in the 16th Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment and first went into action on 22nd December 1915 in Egypt.Malcolm died on 1st July 1916 and is buried at Railway Hollow Cemetery, Hebuterne, France. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal. Malcolm’s name also appears on the Rolls of Honour of the Titus Salt School and St. Peter’s Church, Shipley.

Priestley, Harry – born at Bradford in 1900, son of Harry and Elizabeth Priestley and  brother to William (see below). In 1911 Harry’s home was at 3 North Bank Road, Stoney Ridge. On 27^th December 1926 Harry married Alice Carver at St. Peter’s Church, Shipley. At this time, Harry was a mechanic living at 38 Hollings Street, Cottingley. It has so far not been possible to trace Harry’s military service records.

Priestley, William – born 5th August 1895, son of Harry and Elizabeth Priestley. In 1911 William was a seal plush finisher, employed at Manningham Mills and living at 3 North Bank Road, Shipley. William was a private (No. 17833) in the West Riding Regiment and died of wounds on 12th December 1916. He is buried at the Boulogne Eastern Cemetery. William was awarded the Victory and British War medals. William’s name also appears on the Roll Of Honour of St. Peter’s Church, Shipley.

Prince, Norman Charlesworth – born on 11^th May 1882 at 90 Tennyson Place, Bradford, son of Charlesworth Prince, a wool stapler, and his wife Margaret (nee Taylor). In 1891 the family resided at 4 Oakroyd Villas, Manningham, however Norman was, at this time, a pupil in a private school at Birkenhead. It was later reported that he was educated at Rockferry and abroad. In 1911 Norman was a wool merchant living at 13 Heaton Grove where he was the head of the house. In 1912 he married Madeleine Senior at Basford, Nottinghamshire and they subsequently had two children, Joan and John. Prior to the commencement of war (for nine years), Norman had been in command of the Bingley Company of the 1^st Duke Of Wellington’s Regiment (TF) but resigned in 1912. He was also involved with Cottingley Rifle Club and spent much of his time drilling the members. At the opening of the rifle range at Cottingley on 25^th September 1914 the members (120 of them) formed up and marched through the village under the command of Captain Prince. At the outbreak of war he re-enlisted in the 6^th Battalion, Duke Of Wellington’s West Riding Regiment and had his rank of Captain re-instated. Norman joined the British Expeditionary Force on 17^th April 1915 in France. He was killed in action on 18^th April 1917 and is commemorated at the Mory Abbey Military Cemetery, Mory, France. Norman was awarded the Victory medal, British War medal and 1915 Star. The last known address for Norman (from probate) was 22 Bankfield Drive, Shipley. Norman’s name appears on the Roll Of Honour of St. Peter’s Church, Shipley.

Raistrick, Percy – born 25th November 1897, son of Sara Ann Raistrick. In 1911 he was living at 15 New Brighton, Cottingley at which time he was a worsted spinner.  Percy was a private (No. G/22931) in the 11th Battalion, The Queen’s Royal West Surrey regiment and was killed in action on 1st August 1917. He is commemorated at the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. Percy was awarded the Victory and British War medals.

Raistrick, William – born at Shipley in 1894, the son of Thomas Raistrick, a mason, and his wife Mary. In William’s youth, the family resided at New Brighton but by 1911, when William was a grocery assistant, the family had moved to 4 Skirrow Street, Cottingley.

Rawnsley, Fred – born at Bingley in 1889, son of Oswald Rawnsley, a seal dyer’s labourer, and his wife, Jane Ann (nee Burgess). He married Susannah Heaton at St. Michael’s Church, Cottingley on 27^th March 1909 when Fred was employed as a grocer. Three children, Isabella, Samuel and John, were born before Fred enlisted for military service. Fred attested at Keighley on 4^th September 1914 and was posted to the 3^rd Battalion of the West Riding Regiment with Regimental No. 11568. This engagement did not last long as Fred was discharged on 24^th October 1914 as “not being likely to become an efficient soldier”. At this time the family home was at 40 Hollings Street, Cottingley. It appears, however, that Fred either re-enlisted or was called up later as the following report appeared in the Keighley News of 27^th April 1918: Official intimation has been received by Mr F Rawnsley, Cottingley, that her husband Private Fred Rawnsley, of the West Yorkshire Regiment, has been severely wounded in France by a poison gas shell. After receiving treatment at the 1^st Canadian General Hospital, Etaples, Private Rawnsley was removed to the Huddersfield War Hospital where he is now making satisfactory progress.

Rawnsley, George William – born at Manningham in 1886, son of Oswald Rawnsley, a seal dyer’s labourer, and his wife, Jane Ann (nee Burgess) and brother of Fred (see above).  George had joined the Yorkshire Regiment in October 1904 when the home address was 6 Smith Street, Cottingley but his war service began when he enlisted on 24^th June 1916. Prior to enlistment, George was employed by Cooper Bros. of Hirst Wood, Saltaire. He married Sarah Jane Park on 25^th September 1915 and they had a son, Richard. On 12^th October 1916 Private 38328 George William Rawnsley was posted to the 3^rd Battalion of The Yorkshire Regiment.On 8^th November 1916 he was promoted to Lance Corporal. On 2^nd January 1917 George was posted to France. Later in 1917 he reverted to the rank of Private and was transferred to the Labour Corps (Reg’m. No. 395219). He was transferred to the reserves on 18^th February 1919, his home address being 1 Smith Street, Cottingley. George was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Rhodes, Albert – born at Baildon on 29^th April 1877, the son of John Rhodes, a currier, and his wife Mary.  On 29^th October 1910, Albert married Ethel Butterfield  In 1911 Albert was a leather currier living at  16 Stoney Ridge, Shipley with his wife and son, Reginald. Albert  had a varied military career, serving in France from 2^nd March 1917 to 19^th July 1917 with the Durham Light Infantry (No. 64531) and the Labour Corps (No. 20155), and at home with the Royal Flying Corps (No. 130849). He was discharged as unfit on 5^th October 1918. Albert was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Robinson, Jonas Harold – born 1896, son of Daniel and Martha Robinson. In 1911 Jonas was a picket maker living at 16 Hill Top Road, Thornton. Jonas lived at various addresses in Cottingley  after the war including 9 Smith Street and 8 Herbert Street.

Rowling, Fred – born 18th March 1893, son of Joseph and Martha Hannah Rowling. In 1911 Fred was a farm worker on his father’s farm at Throstle Nest, Cottingley. He was later employed by Bradford City Council as a teamer. He served as Private 41025 in the 7th Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment and was killed in action on 20th December 1917. He is buried at Loos British Cemetery, France. He is also commemorated on the Rowling family memorial in Bingley Cemetery.  Fred was awarded the Victory and British War medals.

Sarsby, Charles Henry – born on 13^th December 1885 at Bradford, the son of Charles Anthony Sarsby, a stuff merchant, and his wife, Emily. On 31^st December 1910 Charles married Mabel Marguerite Hammond at Newport, Isle Of Wight. The couple subsequently had eight children.Hewas resident at 42 Stoney Ridge Road, Shipley from 1915 to 1918. Charles served in the 1^st/6^th Battalion of the Duke Of Wellington’s (West Riding Regiment) and had joined some years before the 1^st World War began. In July 1911 he had been promoted from 2^nd Lieutenant to Lieutenant. On 1^st October 1914 Charles was promoted to Captain and on 8^th April 1915 experienced his first overseas involvement of the war in France. On 22^nd April 1919 Charles relinquished his commission on account of ill health caused by wounds (he had been wounded in June 1915). He was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star. He was also entitled to a Silver War Badge, but may not have claimed it. Charles travelled widely and became a successful businessman in the family company of Charles Sarsby Limited where he was a director. He was also involved in various business partnerships including Sarsby & Lightowlers, Wharfedale Wireless Works and Sarsby & Burnett Ltd. In the 2^nd World War Charles served as a Lieutenant in the Pioneer Corps. Charles died at Llanishen, Chepstow on 18^th March 1966.

Seal, George Alfred – born at Poplar, London in 1886, the son of Joseph Seal, an electric cable jointer, and his wife Alice Sophia (nee Weatherill). On 9^th November 1907 George married Beatrice Eddison. In the ensuing years two sons, Clifford and George were born. In 1911 George was an iron polisher living at 16 Museum Street, Beckett Street, Leeds where he was employed by Dalby & Wilson. On 23^rd January 1916, George attested at Bingley and was  put on reserve. Private 352401 George Alfred Seal was mobilised with the Royal Engineers on 16^th April 1918. He was demobilised on 19^th October 1919 to his home at 6 Town Hill Street, Cottingley.

Shackleton, John Ward – born at Cottingley on 13^th July 1884, son of John Shackleton, a worsted weaving overlooker of Cottingley, and his wife, Christiana (nee Shepherd). In 1911 John was an asylum attendant at West Ham Borough Asylum. Private 622265 John Ward Shackleton enlisted in the Royal Field Artillery on 26^th September 1914. John served overseas, rose to the rank of Corporal and was discharged, due to sickness, on 11^th September 1917. He was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and a Silver War Badge.

Shackleton, Thomas Shepherd – born at Cottingley on 25^th July 1882, son of John Shackleton, a worsted weaving overlooker of Cottingley, and his wife, Christiana (nee Shepherd) and brother of John (see above).  On 19^th June 1909 Thomas  married Emily Jefferies, at which time he was  a textile designer. In 1911 Thomas, Emily and their daughter Christiana were living at 12 Stoney Ridge. No documents have been discovered to explain Thomas’ military service.

Sheffield, John – born 1896, son of Mary Sheffield. In 1911 he was an errand lad for an ironmonger living at 41 Scarborough Road, Norton. John attested at Newcastle Upon Tyne on 15th January 1916 and subsequently served in the Royal Field Artillery and the Royal Garrison Artillery, initially as a gunner but later promoted to bombadier. In June 1916 John went overseas, to France. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals. On 22nd October 1917 John married Rhoda Annie Smith (sister of Harold Redvers Smith – see below) at St. Michael and All Angels’ Church, Cottingley. After the war they lived at 9 Main Street, Cottingley.

Smith, Bernard – born 1898, son of Sarah Smith. In 1911 he was a worsted spinning doffer, living at 7 Quebec, Cottingley.

Smith, Harold Redvers – born at Malton in 1900, the youngest of fourteen children of John Smith, a gas works labourer, and his wife Mary. The Smith family appear to have moved from Malton to Cottingley sometime between 1911 and 1917. The family lived at 9 Main Street, Cottingley for several years after the war. No military records have been found for Harold. On 3rd February 1934 he married Beatrice Jackson.

Smith, John – born 1893 at Malton, son of John and Mary Smith and brother of Wilfred and Harold Redvers Smith (see above and below). In 1911 John was a footman at the residence of Sir John Edmund Backhouse (a director of Barclays Bank Limited) in Darlington. On 2nd September 1914 John attested at St. Helens and joined the Preston battery of the Royal Field Artillery, eventually attaining the rank of bombadier. He served in the Mediterranean and Egypt before returning home on 15th June 1919.According to his Medal Roll Index Card, John first saw action in the Russian theatre on 1st July 1915. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory medal and British War medal. In 1918 his residence was at 9 Main Street, Cottingley.

Smith, Walter – born 1888 in Cottingley, son of John Smith, a worsted warp twister, and his wife Clara. In 1911 Walter was employed as a warp twister and was living at 52 Main Street, Cottingley. In 1915 he made his home at 8 Hollings Street, Cottingley and returned there after the war. No military records have yet been discovered for Walter Smith.

Smith, Wilfred – born 7th January 1898, son of John Smith, a worsted warp twister, and his wife Clara and brother of Walter (see above). In 1911 Wilfred was a spinner living at 52 Main Street, Cottingley. Wilfred went to France on 7th January 1917. On 4th November 1922 he married Nellie Aspinall.

Smith, Wilfred – another Wilfred Smith was resident at 9 Main Street, Cottingley in 1918 and was also able to vote through naval or military qualification. This Wilfred was born in 1896 at Malton and was a son of John and Mary Smith and brother of Harold Redvers Smith and John (see above). In 1911 he was bootmaking and resident at Dr. Barnardo’s Industrial Home in Commercial Road East, Limehouse Division of Tower Hamlets, London.

Snowden, William – born on 19^th April 1899 at Skirrow Street, Cottingley, one of eight children of Emsley Snowden, a farmer, and his wife, Amy (nee Stagg).  The Snowden family lived at 52 Main Street, Cottingley, then at 3 Mitton Street, Cottingley but after the war the family farmed at  Manor Farm, Cottingley for many years. William enlisted for military service on 19^th May 1917, but was not called up until 27^th May 1918. On being called up, Private 51952 William Snowden was posted to the 6^th West Riding Regiment. William’s occupation at the time was a horseman and it is interesting that he appears with horses in many of the photographs of him. When William was demobilised on 7^th May 1919 he was attached to the 474^th Agricultural Company. William married Hilda Emsley on 23^rd May 1925. They had one son, Stanley, born in 1929. Hilda died in 1938 and William married Nellie Bell (formerly Moore) on 26^th February 1945. William died at Lancaster Royal Infirmary on 18^th December 1964. Any photographs of William on this website have been supplied by John Snowden (William’s nephew) of Melbourne, Australia.

Spedding, John James – born 1887 at Kilmalcolm, Renfrewshire, son of Thomas and Helen Spedding. On 29th October 1910 married Lily Hook at Bingley Parish Church. The couple subsequently had two children, John J. and Lily. In 1911 John was a wool comber. He served as Private 13168 in “D” Company, 9th Battalion, West Riding Regiment first going into action in France on 15th July 1915. John died on 25th April 1916 and is commemorated at Cite Bonjean Military Cemetery, Armentieres, France. He was awarded the 1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War medal.

Stagg, Clifford Atkinson – born 1898 at Gloucester, only child of Harry Gledhill Stagg and his wife, Martha. Clifford attested at Keighley on 22nd August 1916, at which time the family was resident at 42 Main Street, Cottingley and Clifford was a clerk employed in the mill of W. R. Kay Limited at Cottingley. He served as Private 44309 in the 12th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry. On 20th January 1918 Clifford was admitted to hospital in Genoa with pulmonary tuberculosis. He was subsequently transferred to hospitals in Marseilles and Edgbaston, then to the Middleton Sanatorium. Clifford died at home on 30th September 1918 and is buried in Bingley Cemetery. He was awarded the Victory medal, British War medal and Silver War Badge.

Stead, Percy – born in 1890 at Cottingley, the son of Annie (Hannah) Mary Stead. Annie later married Thomas Thompson then Fred Summersgill. In 1911 Percy was a wool warehouseman at 86 Haycliffe Road, Bradford. On 15^th May 1915 Percy married Alice Annie Petty at Cottingley. His home address at this time was 6 Skirrow Street, Cottingley. Percy enlisted on 24^th June 1916 and was called up on 8^th November 1916 and posted to the 12^th Company of the Royal Army Medical Corps with Regimental No. 96182. On 5^th March 1917 Percy was transferred to Warlingham Military Hospital. On 28^th July 1919 he was discharged “no longer physically fit for war service” due to facial paralysis. Percy was awarded a Silver war badge due to his disability.

Tankard, D – No information has been found relating to this person.

Taylor, George Albert – born 19th December 1899, son of Edward William and Emma Taylor. In 1911 the family residence was at 52A Hollings Street, Cottingley. Prior to enlisting, George was employed by  Charles Sowden and Sons of Sandy Lane. George enlisted in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Tyneside Division on 13th December 1917 and served as Ordinary Seaman Z/12241. He was subsequently promoted to the rank of Signaller and died of influenza followed by jaundice at  a Liverpool hospital on 25th November 1918. This was just 17 days after the death of his brother, John, (see below). George had been serving aboard HMS Almanzora, his last trip being to South Africa. George was buried in Bingley Cemetery.

Taylor, John Wilson – born 20th May 1894, second son of Edward William and Emma Taylor. In 1911 John was a domestic gardener, employed at Bankfield, Cottingley, living at 52A Hollings Street, Cottingley. He was later employed as a card grinder by W. R. Kay Limited at Cottingley Mills. John attested at Bingley on 7th December 1915 but was not mobilised until 23rd August 1916. On 12th June 1916 John married Elizabeth Ellen Auton at Staindrop. The couple lived at 77 Sandy Lane, Allerton. As Private 267777 he served in the 3/6th Battalion of the West Riding Regiment, going overseas on Christmas Day 1916. John died of wounds received in action on 8th November 1918, just 17 days before his brother George (see above), and is buried in the Etaples Military Cemetery. He was awarded the Victory and British War medals.

Teale, Thomas – born in 1882 at Baildon, the son of Thomas Teale, a warp dresser, and his wife Sarah. On 18^th April 1908, he married Hannah Murgatroyd. In 1911 Thomas was a stone mason living at 1 Skirrow Street, Cottingley. Details of Thomas’ military service have not yet been discovered. After the war Thomas resided at 5 Mitton Street, Cottingley for some time. Thomas’ name also appears on the Roll Of Honour of Saltaire village.

Terry, Thomas Stephenson – born at 170 Garnett Street, Bradford on 20^th September 1876, son of William Richard Terry, a packing case maker, and his wife, Martha Ann (nee Stephenson). On 2^nd June 1900 Thomas married Lily Moorhouse. In 1911 Thomas, was a timber yard labourer living at 85 Harewood Street, Bradford. Thomas was an iron cleaner of 25 North Bank Road, Stoney Ridge when he attested at Bradford on 8^th December 1915. It was not until 14^th October 1916 that Private 528478 Thomas Stephenson Terry was mobilised with the Labour Corps. On 15^th November 1916 Thomas was posted to the 34^th Brigade of the 68^th Division. On 20^th February 1918 Thomas was transferred to the 494^th Agricultural Company. He was demobilised on 16^th March 1919 to 48 Wellington Road, Undercliffe. Thomas died at the Duke Of York Home, Bradford on 11^th February 1933.

Thompson, Herbert – born at Bingley on 28^th September 1877, son of William Thompson, a railway clerk, and his wife, Sarah. On 24^th December 1903 Herbert married Sarah Kate Thornton. In 1911 Herbert was a banker’s clerk living at Brookside, Cottingley. Herbert attested at Keighley on 20^th November 1915 but was not called up until 12^th July 1918. Herbert was posted as a Driver (No. 424504) to 432 (HT) company of the Royal Army Service Corps at Bradford where he remained until demobilisation on 6^th February 1919.

Thornton, Joseph Henry – born 6th July 1892 at Cottingley, son of Benjamin Gott Thornton and his wife Emma (nee Dickinson). In 1911 he was living and working on the farm of his grandmother, Ann Snowden, at Manor Farm, Cottingley. On 27th March 1913, Harry, as he was known, emigrated to Australia along with Frank Hird and Harry Rowling. In Australia he enlisted in the Australian Infantry and served as Private 2030 in the 3rd Battalion, 5th Reinforcement regiment.  Harry left Sydney for the Dardanelles (via training in Egypt) on 13th April 1915. Harry was killed in action on 16th June 1915 and was buried at Beach Cemetery, Anzac Cove, Gallipoli.

Vanham, John Isaac – born at Bingley on 30^th June 1888, the son of George Vanham, a carter of 10 Russell Street, Bingley, and his wife, Emma Jane (Nee Goodings). In 1911 John was a wool sorter living at Dowley Gap Farm. On 10^th February 1912 John married Ada Robinson Beales. They subsequently had three daughters, Edith, Amy and Jenny, and lived at 34 Smith Street, Cottingley. John Isaac Vanham attested at Halifax on 25^th October 1916 and was accepted into the West Yorkshire Regiment with regimental number 38378. On 28^th December 1916 he was transferred to the Machine Gun Corps and redesignated No. 82942. On 12^th July 1917 John disembarked at Havre, France. In early 1918 John spent seven week in hospital with neuralgia. In April 1918 he was a victim of a gas attack which resulted in him being transferred back home where he spent two weeks in Edinburgh War Hospital. He was demobilised on 18^th January 1919 and was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Walker, George Francis Douglas – born at Shipley on 5^th February 1897, son of George Walker, a chartered accountant, and his wife, Elizabeth. In 1911 he was living at 74 Kirkgate, Shipley. On 19th March 1915 he was appointed 2^nd Lieutenant in the 18^th Battalion of the West Yorkshire Regiment (the 2^nd Bradford Pals). At this time he was living at Crowhurst, Cottingley . His appointment was reported in The London Gazette of 1^st April 1915. He was later transferred to the 3^rd Battalion of the West Yorkshire Regiment. George’s service record has not survived but what is known is that his first overseas action was in Egypt on 21^st December 1915. At one time, in 1916, he suffered gunshot wounds to his arm and knee. George was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star. On 30^th March 1926 George married Hilda Carlisle Swithenbank. He died at Ben Rhydding Hydro, Ilkley on 25^th May 1947.

Watherston, Robert James Henderson Fell – born at Hinckley, Leicestershire in 1891, son of Rev. Alexander Law Watherston and his wife Emily Mary (nee Fell). In 1911 Robert was a theological student at the College of the House of Resurrection, Mirfield. He subsequently studied at Leeds University where he became Sergeant-instructor of the Officer Training Corps.  Robert served in the 1/5th Battalion of the Leicestershire Regiment and was mobilised on 3rd March 1915. He first served overseas, in France, on 1st June 1917. Robert attained the rank of 2nd Lieutenant and was killed in action on 3rd December 1917 at Cambrin where he is buried in the Military Cemetery there. The circumstances of Robert’s death are graphically described in “The Fifth Leicestershire” by Captain J. D. Hills. Robert was awarded the Victory and British War medals. It is unclear why Robert’s name is included on Cottingley’s War Memorial as there is no evidence to connect him to Cottingley. His name also appears on the War Memorial at Hinckley and the Roll of Honour at Leeds University.

Watmough, Ernest – born on 18^th August 1892, the only child of Samuel Watmough, a warp dresser of Sandy Lane, and his wife, Emily (nee Morley). In 1901 the family home was at 5 New Brighton, Shipley and ten years later was at 4 Bairstow Street, Sandy Lane. At this time Ernest was a wool sorter. In 1918 Ernest was resident at Stock House Cottage.

Whitaker, Albert – born at Cottingley on 15^th April 1887, the son of George Whitaker, a milk dealer, and his wife Emma (nee Richardson). Albert appears to have thought a military career might be a good course to take as, on 25^th June 1902 aged 17 years and 2 months, he joined the 3^rd Battalion of the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. His military service lasted just three days as, on 28^th June 1902, he was discharged by “purchase on payment of £1.” That does not appear to have been the end of Albert’s military involvement, however, as, at the time of the 1911 Census, he was a Lance Corporal in the West Riding Regiment serving in India. At some time Albert married Thirza Birkinshaw as St. Michael’s Church baptism register shows an entry for 6^th March 1915 relating to the baptism of Albert Victor Whitaker. The entry shows Albert’s occupation as “QMS 3^rd Batt W. R. Re”. An article in the Bradford Weekly Telegraph of 26^th May 1919 which features William and Ernest Batchelor also states “A step-brother is Company Quartermaster Sgt Whitaker of the 1^st Duke Of Wellington’s Regiment and is now engaged training Derby men for the Army.”

Whitaker, John William – born 1872, son of Randolph and Elizabeth Whitaker. On 28th March 1896 he married Annie Elizabeth Willoughby and they subsequently lived at 1 Quebec, Cottingley where, in 1911, John was a machine painter. They had two children, Ada and Ernest. After the war the family lived at various addresses in Cottingley including 2 Skirrow Street, 42 Hollings Street, 12 Main Street and 3 Town hill Street.

Whitaker, Thomas Kitson – born on 12^th November 1879, the son of Joseph Whitaker, a stone merchant of Idle, and his wife, Sarah Jane (nee Upton).  On 6^th May 1905 he married Alice Emma Whitley (sister of James Whitley – see below).In 1911 Thomas was a journeyman plumber,  living at 9 Queens Road, Shipley. Private 18/632 Thomas Kitson Whitaker served in the 18^th Battalion of the West Yorkshire Regiment (the 2^nd Bradford Pals). Thomas went with the battalion to Egypt on 22^nd December 1915. He was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star. After the war Thomas and Alice lived at 13 New Brighton Road for many years.

Whitley, James – born at Cottingley in 1882, the son of James Whitley, a farmer, and his wife, Emma (nee Dean). In 1911 James was a wool warehouseman living at Lower Westgate Farm, Allerton. On 1^st August 1914 James married Blanche Brooks. One of the witnesses at the wedding was Thomas Kitson Whitaker (see above).  They had two children, Irene and Dorothy. Private 40003 James Whitley, a wool warehouseman of Florella Court, Cottingley, attested at Bingley on 11^th December 1915 although he wasn’t actually mobilised until 12^th April 1918. James served in the 3^rd Battalion of the West Riding Regiment and was demobilised on 22^nd January 1919. James and Blanche lived at 7 Smith Street, Cottingley from 1918 to 1930, then at 26 Manor Road, Cottingley until their deaths. James died in 1955, his wife, Blanche, having predeceased him the previous year.

Whitwham, Harold – born 1894, son of Thomas Whitwham, a mill manager of High Beckfoot, Bingley, and his wife, Jane (nee Allinson).In 1911 he was a pawnbroker’s assistant living at Park View House, Beckfoot. Harold married Miriam Butterfield  on 4^th August 1917. According to the marriage register, Harold was  Private 525 in the Labour Corps, Lincolnshire Regiment. Miriam’s address at the time was 16 Hollings Street, Cottingley and this was their home in the years after the war. The couple subsequently had two daughters, Joan Margaret and Audrey Doreen.

Whitwham, Herbert – born 31st January 1898, son of Thomas Whitwham, a mill manager of High Beckfoot, Bingley, and his wife, Jane (nee Allinson) and brother of Harold (see above). In 1911 he was still at school and living at Park View House, Beckfoot.The Keighley News of 17^th August 1918 reported “Private Herbert Whitwham (20) Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers of Beckfoot, Bingley, was wounded in the back on August 4, and is in hospital in France. He joined the Army in 1915 and went to France in January 1917. Before enlisting he was employed by Messrs J White and Sons, tanners, Bingley”. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Herbert married Lily Christelow on 18^th September 1920. At this time Herbert was a farm labourer of Stock House Farm, Cottingley. The electoral register shows Herbert living at Stock House Cottages for several years afterwards.

Wild, Walter Gordon – born at Bingley in 1885, the son of Thomas Wild, a joiner and cabinet maker of 34 Wellington Street, Bingley, and his wife Susannah (nee Purdy). In 1911 he was a general printer living at 36 Wellington Street, Bingley. Later that year he married Ada Smith. An article in the Keighley News of 16^th March 1918 points to Walter’s wartime service.  Mr Gordon Wild of Cottingley Bridge has been discharged from the Army with shell shock. He trained at Clipstone Camp in England, saw a good deal of service in France then invalided to England. He received specialist nerve treatment in London. Although no definite military records have been discovered, a possible soldier was Private 203994 Walter G Wild of the West Riding Regiment, later Private 235190 of the Worcestershire Regiment, who enlisted on 10th December 1915 and was discharged on 6th March 1918 due to wounds. He was awarded the Victory medal, British War medal and Silver War Badge.

Williams, Cecil Stanley Norbury – born 1881 in Barton, Lancashire, son of Samuel and Annie Williams. In 1908 Stanley married Sarah Lavinia Pickles and in 1911 they were living at 20 Edenhurst Road, Mile End Lane, Stockport. At that time Stanley was a buyer of shipping merchant’s textiles. After the war Stanley and Sarah lived at 30 Stoney Ridge Road, Shipley.

Wilson, Charles Swithenbank – born at Baildon on 18^th May 1895, the son of John Henry Wilson, a navvy, and his wife Sarah Elizabeth (nee Iredale). In 1911 Charles was a dye house piece finisher living at 64 Hollings Street, Cottingley with his parents and sister, Grace. In 1916 he married Ada Grunwell and they subsequently had two daughters, Margaret Emma and Nancy Grunwell. The Keighley News of 4^th May 1918 reported Private Charles Wilson of Cottingley has received a gunshot wound in the chest, and is now in hospital at Manchester. Before enlisting Private Wilson was employed in the warehouse by Messrs W.R. Kay Limited, Woolcombers, Cottingley Mills. His granddaughter, Margaret Hope, has this to say about Charles: “I was only nine when he died. He was the most wonderful, kindest man I have ever known. He died leaving seven living grandchildren. My mom became widowed at age 29 and we moved in with our grandparents, so grandfather became the only dad I ever had, as I was a baby when my dad died. He was wounded in the head and survived. I seem to recall Richard (Margaret’s cousin) said that granddad was shot before he even landed at the destination he was bound for, so I will assume he meant France or Belgium.”  Margaret has provided the photograph of Charles. She says “The photo sits proudly on my wall here in the USA.” Charles died in 1957.

Wilson, Jesse – born in 1879, son of William Watson Wilson, a mason of Bingley, and his wife Sarah (nee Suttle). On 24^th January 1903 Jesse married for the first time. His bride was Esther Keighley. Their son Sydney was born the following year. Esther died in 1908 and Jessie married Harriet Kelk on 20^th November 1909. Their children, George Edward , Elsie, William, Maud and Marjorie, were all baptised at St. Michael’s Church, Cottingley. In 1911 he was a card jobber in the wool combing business, living at 4 New Row, Cottingley. Jesse attested at Keighley on 28^th September 1914. He was initially posted to the 2^nd Battalion of the West Riding Regiment followed by the 3^rd and 8^th Battalions. On 1^st May 1917 he was transferred to the 26^th Battalion of the Durham Light Infantry. Finally, from 30^th March 1918, he served as Private 47657 in the Royal Defence Corps.He served in France from 18^th December 1914 to 21^st March 1915, in the Mediterranean from 7^th September 1915 to 2^nd July 1916 and France again from 3^rd July 1916 to 12^th December 1916. On 13^th December 1916 Jesse was admitted to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with gun shot wounds to his right thigh, shoulder and arm. He had previously (1915) suffered from gun shot wounds in his left wrist and right knee. He was transferred to the reserves on 22^nd March 1919. He was awarded the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1915 Star. His second wife, Harriet, died in 1927 and in 1929 Jesse married for the third time. Laura Yates was his third wife and, in 1930, they had a daughter, Hilda. Jesse Wilson lived at 4 New Row, Cottingley from 1911 until his death in 1934.

Woodhouse, John Arthur – Very little is known about this man, other than that he was living at 16 Stoney Ridge Road from 1918 to 1922 and that his ability to vote was through naval or military qualification.

Woodley, John William – born at Cottingley in 1886, the eldest of five children of Thomas William Knight Woodley, a millwright, and his wife, Annie (nee Hogan). John must have had a taste for the military as, on 25^th November 1903, he attested and joined the 3^rd Battalion, West Riding Regiment. However, his military career was short-lived as he was discharged two days later “by purchase”. At the time he was a fitter employed by Harold Kay. In 1911 he was a millwright, like his father, living at 24 Main Street, Cottingley. On 5^th August of that year John married Blanche Anderson.  Their son Edward Anderson Woodley was born in 1913. In 1915 John was registered at Bradford Road, Cottingley for voting purposes.

Wortley, Harry – born Harry Devaney in 1894 at Oldham, son of John Devaney and his wife, Marian (nee Wortley). Harry’s mother died in 1894 (possibly in childbirth or shortly afterwards) and Harry was brought up by his mother’s relatives. In 1911 he was an assistant in his uncle (Hartley Taylor’s) laundry business, living with his uncle and aunt at 11 Hollings Street, Cottingley. Harry enlisted on 2^nd March 1916 but was not called up until 12^th June 1917. Private 49098 Harry Wortley was initially posted to the West Yorkshire Regiment but was later transferred to the Army Pay Corps with Regimental No. 13639. Harry had spent from 4^th February 1918 to 6^th June 1918 in York Military Hospital due to a fractured right tibia and fibula. From the notes on Harry’s medical history it seems that a plate inserted after a road accident in 1912 was removed and tendons lengthened. Harry served until 14^th September 1918 when he was discharged “no longer physically fit for war service”. His home address at this time was 70 Hollings Street, Cottingley. Harry  was awarded a Silver War Badge. In 1922 Harry married Grace Taylor. They subsequently had three daughters, Hazel, Mary Muriel and Marian. From the baptism records of the children, it appears that Harry was still working in the laundry in 1923 but had changed occupation to being a fish fryer by 1926. Harry lived in Cottingley for the rest of his life. He died in 1964.

Wray, Horace – born at Saltaire in 1885, the son of Mary Ellen Wray, a mill hand. In 1909 Horace Wray married Laura Beaver. The following year their daughter, Kathleen Mary, was born and in 1911 they were all living at 10 Brow Wood, Thackley. At this time Horace was a fully qualified painter and decorator. Two newspaper reports and a medals rolls index card are all the evidence available of Horace’s military activity. The Bradford Weekly Telegraph of 12^th July 1918 reported “WRAY Cpl H Borderer Regt. Late of the Royal Air Service of 79 Gawthorpe Terrace, New Brighton, Cottingley has been wounded and is in hospital in Manchester” and the Keighley News of 27^th July 1918 reported ” Information has been received that Corporal H Wray of New Brighton, Cottingley, and of the Border Regiment, has been wounded in action and is now in hospital at Manchester. Corporal Wray was home on leave in  April last”.  Corporal 29607 Horace Wray of the Border regiment was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. In 1922 another daughter, Doris, was born. From 1915, for several years, Horace and family lived at 79 Cottingley Cliffe Road, Cottingley.

Wright, W. H. – No definite information has been found relating to this man.

the Border Regiment, has been wounded in action and is now in hospital at Manchester. Corporal Wray was home on leave in  April last”.  Corporal 29607 Horace Wray of the Border regiment was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. In 1922 another daughter, Doris, was born. From 1915, for several years, Horace and family lived at 79 Cottingley Cliffe Road, Cottingley.Wright, W. H. – No definite information has been found relating to this