Roll of Honour - Cambridgeshire

Ministry of Defence

Lest We Forget

The Royal British Legion

OUTWELL WAR MEMORIAL

World War 1 and 2 - Roll of Honour with detailed information
Compiled and copyright © 2000 Cliff Brown
RNVR information courtesy of Jack Clegg
additional information and photographs W. P. Smith

The Outwell memorial is to be found in the grounds of St Clements Church. It takes the form of a cross mounted on a tall, rough-hewn stone. On the front of the stone is a plaque with a raised crown and allied flags. To the right and left of of the stone are two smaller tablets. The whole is sourrounded by a rough, hewn, bollards with a chain link. There are 35 names for World War 1 and 12 names for World War 2. The memorial was paid for by the parishioners collecting funding for the feature and was unveiled 5 December 1920 by Captain Colin Coote, D.S.O., M.P.

Extract from Lynn Advertiser - Friday 10 December 1920, page 7:

OUTWELL.

WAR MEMORIAL UNVEILED.— On Sunday the public war memorial was unveiled by Captain Colin Coote, D.S.O., M.P. for the Isle of Ely Division, in the presence of about 800 parishioners. The memorial, which has been erected in the churchyard by Mr. Miller, of Wisbech, to a design by Mr. Bert Ward, of Wisbech, takes the form of a grey granite pillar surmounted by a red granite cross, and on a plate affixed are engraved the following names: Walter Bridges, R. F. Buck, Chas. Daniels, Wm. Daniels, Alfred Chas. Doubleday, Percy S. Doubleday, H. Eggett, G.H. Feetham, H. Feetham, Geo. Fisher, G. H. Gee, H. Goodale, Albert Hall, Geo. Wm. Harvey, Bernard Heading, P. W. Hempson, W. Hempson, A. W. Hobbs, H. Horn, Wm. Jackson, J. H. Lake, Tom Lake, Geo. Laws, T. Moulton, B. Murfitt, E. A. Newling, S. Newling, T. Robb, G. H. Rodwell, C. F. Smithie, H. Venni, W. Venni, H. Watts, A. Wight and H. Wright. The unveiling ceremony was preceded by a special service, well attended, in St.Clement’s church. The choir was augmented by the chapel choirs in Outwell, led by Mr. Harry Bond, and Mr. Coe was at the organ. The lesson from Revelations vi. was read by Rev. Walter Scott, of the Methodist circuit, Wisbech and Rev. Mowbray Smith, ex. chaplain to H.M. Forces, delivered an impressive address on the words, “He saved others, Himself he cannot save” (Mark xv., 31). An Anthem by the combined choirs, “Who are they whose robes are white?” was impressively rendered, and the solos given with fine effect. The Dead March from “Saul” was played at the conclusion of the service. In the churchyard the hymn “When I survey” was sung, after which Captain Coote drew aside the Union Jack on the memorial. The rector (Rev. J. B. Harte) then uttered the dedicatory prayers, and Captain Coote delivered an address. The hymn, “On the Resurrection morning” was impressively sung, and the ceremony ended with prayer from the Rev. James Bryant, of Wisbech. A muffled peal was rung on the bells, and a number of floral tributes were placed at the base of the monument: these included a large Welsh harp in yellow bloom bearing the inscription, "In grateful remembrance of the 35 brave men of Outwell who gave their lives in the Great War, from the Rector and Mrs. B. Harte." Mr. Allsopp officiated as hon. secretary to the committee of which the rector of Outwell was chairman.

Extract from Bill Smith's book "Outwell in a Nutshell" whose sources include Parish Council Minute book, newspaper clippings and from the War memorial fund register held by Mrs Lillian Heanes, wife of a committee member.

The (WWII) War Memorial Committee was formed, Mr Bowers and Mr Calvert were voted joint Chairmen and Mr Palmer was secretary and treasurer.
Following a joint meeting of the parishioners from Outwell Isle and Outwell and Norfolk at Beaupré School 11 th Jan 1947, it was decided a plaque for the fallen should be added to the war memorial. Committee members present were: A Calvert, J Bowers, W Murfitt, D Boyce, W Heanes, R Palmer, C Wilson, H Wright, F Conway, and the Rev F Ingle.
Mr Cox was asked to provide the names of those to be mentioned on the plaque. The secretary was empowered to obtain a price for the work. Investigations at that time revealed the memorial and WWI plaques were supplied by J.S. Miller. At the meeting of 18th Feb 1947, it was agreed the dates 1939 45 should be added to the present plaque but this proved to be impractical so a separate plaque was inserted underneath the original. The quotation received from JS Miller was £80 18s. 6d. for the work to be undertaken, this was later increased to £82 16s. 3d.
It was decided to raise money by means of collection tins, each tin to bear the inscription the Outwell Parish War Memorial Fund . Mr L (Kelly) Hite volunteered to distribute the tins around the village. An appeal was also made in the local newspapers. The sum of £35-16s was collected and a further £5 was donated by Mr F W Rayner (Freddy Snr).
It was decided to carry out a house to house collection which realised £86 8s. 3d., this brought the total money collected and received to £127 4s. 3d. This included money donated by Mr Blunt and Mr P Hite, both of whom lost sons in the war.
The Rev Duckworth and Rev Cartwright were invited to carry out the unveiling; Mr Heanes proposed the unveiling could be done on the 11th, 18th or 25 th April 1948.
It is not entirely clear of the exact date of the unveiling but according to the Outwell Parish War Memorial Fund minutes book, in June 1948 a letter of thanks was sent to the Rev Duckworth, Rev Cartwright and the British Legion Band thanking them for their services.

1914-1918

BRIDGES

William

[The memorial incorrectly lists him as Walter] Private 200461, 1/5th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment attached to 2nd Battalion, Norfolk Regiment. Taken Prisoner of War at the fall of Kut and died, at Tarsus, of malarial poisoning 21 September 1916. Aged 23. Born and enlisted Wimbledon, Surrey. Son of James and Maria Bridges, of 2, Seaford Villas, Upwell. Buried in Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery, Iraq. Plot XXI. Row P. Grave 42.

BUCK

Ralph Frederick

Private 326709, 1st/1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment. Killed in action 31 July 1917. Aged 20. Son of Mrs. Maria Edwards, of Primrose House, Outwell, Wisbech, and the late Charles Edwards; husband of Florence May Buck, of "Olive Dene", Outwell, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 50.

DANIELS

Charles

Private 36556, 6th Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment (Princess Charlotte of Wales) formerly 4769 Cambridgeshire Regiment. Killed in action 12 October 1917. Aged 27. Enlisted Cambridge, resident Outwell, Isle of Ely, Cambridgeshire. Son of William and Mary Ann Daniels, Outwell, Isle of Ely. Brother listed below. No known grave. Commemorated on Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 105 to 106.

DANIELS

William

Private 31347 [listed as 31317 on SDGW], 1st Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers formerly 154364 Royal Field Artillery. Killed in action 1 October 1918. Aged 27. Born Outwell, resident Wisbech, enlisted Norwich. Son of William and Mary Ann Daniels, of Outwell, Isle of Ely. Brother listed above. Buried in Dadizele New British Cemetery, Belgium.

DOUBLEDAY

Alfred Charles

Private 41321, 13th Battalion, Essex Regiment formerly 5712, Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action on Thursday, 19 April 1917. Aged 23. Born and resident Outwell, Cambridgeshire, enlisted Norwich. Son of Mrs. G. D. Payne (formerly Doubleday), of South View, Deerfield Road, March, Cambridgeshire, and the late Alfred Doubleday. (Brother listed below). Buried in Orchard Dump Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Plot VI. Row A. Grave 28. See also March.

DOUBLEDAY

Percy Sidney

Private 44459, 11th Battalion, Essex Regiment formerly 38451 Leicester Regiment. Killed in action on Tuesday, 17 September 1918. Aged 19. Son of Mrs. G. D. Payne (formerly Doubleday), of South View, Deerfield Road, March, Cambridgeshire, and the late Alfred Doubleday. Born Upwell, cambs, enlisted Melton Mowbray, resident Frisby, Leicestershire. (Brother listed above). No known grave. Commemorated on the Vis-en-Artois Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 7. See also March.

EGGETT

Harold

Private 40301, 'D' Company, 9th Battalion, Norfolk Regiment. Wounded 4 January 1917, died of those wounds 11 January 1917. Aged 25. Son of John and Harriet Eggett, Church Road, Outwell. Buried in Longuenesse (St Omer) Souvenir Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Plot IV. Row A. Grave 85.

FEETHAM

[George] (Harry) Henry

Private 32979, 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment formerly 15483, Norfolk Regiment. Taken prisoner of war Saturday, 14 April 1917, died in captivity on Tuesday, 24 April 1917 at Douai. Born Outwell, Norfolk, enlisted Norwich, resident Upwell, Norfolk. Lived in Seaford Villas. (Brother listed below.) Buried in Cabaret Rouge British Cemetery, Souchez, France. Plot XIV. Row F. Grave 19. See also Upwell

FEETHAM

Herbert

Lance Corporal 32597, 5th Battalion, Oxford and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry formerly 5325 Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment). Killed in action 23 March 1918. Born Outwell, resident Upwell, enlisted Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk. Lived in Seaford Villas. (Brother listed above.) No known grave. Commemorated on Pozieres Memorial, Somme, France. Panel 50 and 51. See also Upwell

FISHER

George Henry

Private 16586, 'A' Company, 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. Killed in action 30 August 1918. Aged 23. Son of Charles William and Harriet Fisher, of Outwell, Wisbech. Buried in Ecoust-St Mein British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Row A. Grave 22.

GEE

George Harry

Private 104145, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry) formerly 36354, Suffolk Regiment. Killed in action 12 August 1917. Aged 19. Born Stowbardolph, Norfolk. Resident Outwell, Norfolk. Son of Ernest Mark Gee, of Pincushion Drove, Outwell, Norfolk. Joined Great Eastern Railway circa 1915. Enlisted March 1917 in Newmarket. Employed by Great Eastern railway as a Goods Porter, at Shippea Hill. No known grave. Commemorated on YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 56. See also Liverpool Street Station, London

GOODALE

Hugh

Private 22386, 'C' Company, 8th Battalion, Norfolk Regiment. Died of wounds 22 May 1917. Aged 20. Born Outwell, enlisted King's Lynn, Norfolk. Son of Mrs. Annie Goodale, of Downham Rd., Outwell, Wisbech. Lived Gills Bridge. No known grave. Commemorated on Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 3.

HALL

Albert

Private 17658, 11th (Cambridgeshire) Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. Killed in action 1 July 1916. Aged 19. Son of Harry and Annie Hall, Hall Road, Outwell. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 C and 2 A.

HARVEY

George William

Private 26723, 14th (1st Portsmouth) (Service) Battalion, Hampshire Regiment formerly 24617, Suffolk Regiment. Killed in action 20 October 1916. Born and resident Outwell, Norfolk, enlisted Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. Son of Harry and Annie Hall, of Hundred Drove, Norwoodside, March, Cambridgeshire. Buried in Connaught Cemetery, Thiepval, Somme, France. Plot XI. Row D. Grave 2.

HEADING

Bernard

Able Seaman R/1327, Drake Battalion, Royal Naval Division, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. Died from Gas Poisoning in a field hospital at Thurn St. Martin 25 March 1918 while a Prisoner of War. Born 13 May 1890 in Chatteris, Cambridgeshire. Son of the late George and Sarah Jane Heading; husband of Florence Emma Heading, of Excelsior House, Langhorn's Lane, Outwell, Wisbech, Cambs. In Army Reserve 24 June 1916, entered Royal Naval Division 30 April 1917. Religious denomination Church of England. In the 1901 census he was aged 9, born Wood Green, Middlesex, grandson of George and Jane Heading, resident High Street, Chatteris, Chatteris (Isle of Ely), North Witchford, Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 19, born Edmonton, London, a Labourer on Farm, grandson of George and Jane Sarah Heading, resident High Street, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire. Buried in Iwuy Communal Cemetery, Nord, France. Row B. Grave 22.

Reported Wounded and Missing, later reported Died of Wounds whilst Prisoner of War in a Field Hospital at Thurn, St. Martin from Gas-Poisoning. Husband of Florence E. Heading, of Excelsior House, Langhorn's Lane, Outwell, Wisbech. Joined Nelson Bn. B.E.F. 27 September 1917. 17 December 1917 to Hospital, Shell wound. Penis (mild). Rejoined Nelson from Hospital 14 January 1918. Transferred to Drake Bn. 7 February 1918. According to RND Roll of Honour he died from wounds (gas). Home town Outwell.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1919:

HEADING Bernard of Langhorn-lane Outwell Norfolk died 25 March 1918 at Thurnfeld Hospital Belgium Probate London 11 March to Florence Emma Heading widow. Effects £102 15s. 2d.

HEMPSON

Percy Walter

Private 59526, 6th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. Killed in action 28/29 September 1918. Born Outwell, Wisbech, enlisted Norwich, Norfolk. In the 1901 census he was aged 1, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of Walter and Louisa Hempson, resident Downham Road, Outwell, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk & Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 11, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of Walter and Louisa Hempson, resident Outwell Norfolk. Buried in Unicorn Cemetery, Vendhuile, Aisne, France. Plot I. Row A. Grave 3.

HEMPSON

Walter

Ordinary Seaman R/749, 3rd Reserve Battalion, Royal Naval Division, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. Died from Malignjant Scarlet Fever 8 March 1917. Aged 27. Born 13 October 1890 in Outwell, Cambridgeshire, resident Three Holes, Wisbech. Son of William Hempson, of "Oatwell," Downham Road, Downham, Norfolk. In the 1901 census he was aged 10, born Outwell, Norfolk, a school boy, son of William and Ann Hempson, resident Wisbech Road, Outwell, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk & Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 10, born Emneth, Norfolk, a Farm Labourer, son of William and Anne Hempson, resident Outwell, Norfolk. Height 5 feet 4 inches, chest 36½ inches, fresh complexion, brown hair, grey eyes, civil occupation Horseman, religious denomination Church of England. Buried in Poole Cemetery, Parkstone, Dorset. Grave reference 10. "C." 10201.

HOBBS

Arthur William

[Listed as Thomas William HOBBS on CWGC and SDGW but Arthur William on memorial, Royal Fusiliers, died 26 October 1917 - more information required] Private 245044, 2nd/2nd (City of London) Battalion (Royal Fusiliers), London Regiment formerly 634242, 20th Battalion, London Regiment. Killed in action 26 October 1917. Aged 25. Born, resident and enlisted Camberwell. Husband of Johanna Morey (formerly Hobbs), of 61, Levey Street, Tower Bridge Road, London. No known grave. Commemorated on Tyne Cot Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 148 to 150.

Below is an obituary card; these cards were sent to the families of those killed in action. This copy of an obituary card was given by Alan Russell of Christchurch. It was sent to his Grandmother who was heavily pregnant at the time. Alan has mentioned his mother Elsie, was born 29 October 1917, a mere three days after the death of her father a little over one year before the war ended.

HORN

Herbert

Private 21069, 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. Killed in action 20 July 1916. Born Outwell, Cambridgeshire, enlisted Wisbech. In the 1901 census he was aged 3, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of Robert and Charlotte Horn, resident Village, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 13, born Outwell, Norfolk, a Farm Labourer, son of Charlotte Horn (a widow), resident Outwell, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 C and 2 A.

JACKSON

William aka Willie

Private 6077, 23rd Battalion, Australian Imperial Force. Killed in action 20 September 1917. Aged 28. Born Outwell. Son of James and Hannah Jackson, of Outwell, Cambridgeshire; brother of Emily Lily Jackson, of Outwell Basin, Wisbech. Enlisted Coolaman, New South Wales 9 October 1916. Farm Labourer by trade. Educated Outwell National School. Emigrated 1914, aged 24. Resident Post Office, Coolaman, New South Wales. Religious denomination Church of England. In the 1891 census he was aged 1, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of James and Hannah jackson, resident Wisbech Road, Outwell, Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. In the 1901 census he was aged 11, born Outwell, Norfolk, at school, son of James and Hannah Jackson, resident P S, Outwell Isle, Village, Outwell (Isle of Ely), Wisbech, Norfolk & Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 23. Australian Circular and Australian War Memorial

LAKE

John Henry

Private G/11951, 7th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. Died as a Prisoner of War 18 March 1918. Born Outwell, enlisted Norwich. In the 1901 census he was aged 3, born Outwell, son of Ambrose and Ann Lake, brother of Clara Lake, resident Wisbech Road, Outwell, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Buried in Cologne Southern Cemetery, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. Plot XV. Row B. Grave 25.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1922:

LAKE John Henry of Outwell Norfolk died 18 March 1918 in GermanyAdministration (with Will) London 9 November to Clara Lake spinster. Effects £259 12s. 5d.

LAKE

Tom aka Thomas

Private 2823, 1st/1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment. Died of wounds 24 January 1917. Born Outwell, Cambridgeshire, enlisted Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. Lived Sidney House. In the 1901 census he was aged 3, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of Job and Hannah Lake, resident Church Field, Village, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 14, born Upwell, Assisting on Farm, brother of Walter Lake, resident Outwell, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Buried in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot X. Row D. Grave 32.

LAWS

George

Private 29033, 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment. Killed in action 22 August 1918. Aged 26. Born Upwell, Norfolk, resident Outwell, Norfolk, enlisted Norwich. Son of Robert and Fanny Laws, of Sunny House, Outwell Basin, Wisbech. In the 1901 census he was aged 8, born Upwell, Cambridgeshire, son of Robet and Fanny Laws, resident Langhorns Lane, Outwell, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 18, born Upwell, Norfolk, a Farm Labourer, servant to Charles Henry Smart, resident Venni Farm, Outwell, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Buried in Gommecourt British Cemetery No. 2, Pas de Calais, France. Plot IV. Row G. Grave 6.

MOULTON

Theodore

Private G/41736, 20th Battalion, Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment). Killed in action 4 January 1917. Aged 32. Born Fincham, Norfolk, resident Downham Market, Norfolk, enlisted Waterford, Ireland. Christened 6 January 1884 in Fincham, Norfolk, son of Robert and Jessie Moulton. Son of Robert Moulton, Pimlico, London. In the 1891 census he was aged 7, born Fincham, Norfolk, a scholar, son of Robert and Jessie Moulton, resident The Common, Fincham, Downham, Norfolk. In the 1901 census he was a servant, aged 17, born Fincham, Norfolk, a Page Boy, resident Castle Hotel, Downham Market, Downham, Norfolk. In the 1911 census he was aged 27, born Fincham, a Briclayer's Labourer, born Fincham, Norfolk, son of Jessie Moulton (a widow), resident Lynn Road, Downham Market, Norfolk. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 12 D and 13 B.

MURFITT

Bert

Private 16048, 2nd Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. Killed in action 14 March 1915. Aged 19. Born Littleport, Cambridgeshire, enlisted Peterborough, Northamptonshire. Son of John Robert and Louisa Murfitt, Crooked Chimney, Outwell. No known grave. Commemorated on Le Touret Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 28 to 30.

NEWLING

Edward Anton

Private 137374, 63rd Battalion, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry) formerly 20657, Norfolk Regiment. Died on service 28 August 1918. Born Outwell, Norfolk, resident Dersingham, enlisted King's Lynn. In the 1901 census he was aged 2, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of Perry and Elida Newling, resident Beaupre Farm, Outwell, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Buried in Terlincthun British Cemetery, Wimille, France. Plot II. Row E. Grave 34.

NEWLING

Sydney Ward Beecher

Acting Corporal 9284, 7th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. Died of wounds, received in Battle of Loos, 8 October 1915. Aged 28. Born Paddington, Middlesex, enlisted Bury St. Edmunds. Son of S. B. and M. E. Newling, of Outwell, Wisbech. In the 1901 census he was aged 14, born Paddington, Middlesex, a scholar, son of Samuel B (a Baptist Minister) and Mary E Newling, resident Church Street, Isleham, Newmarket, Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 24, born Paddington, London, a Carpentrer, son of Samuel Boyce (a Baptist Minister) and Mary Elizabeth Newling, resident The Manse, Isleham, Soham, Cambridgeshire. Buried in Le Treport Military Cemetery, Seine-Maritime, France. Plot 1. Row K. Grave 6.

ROBB

Thomas

Private 32399, 1st/4th 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. Died on service 25 October 1918, Egypt. Aged 33. Born Emneth, Norfolk, enlisted Norwich. Son of Samuel and Emily Robb, of Emneth. In the 1891 census he was aged 5, born Emneth, Norfolk, a scholar, son of Samuel and Emily Robb, resident High Road, Emneth, Wisbech, Norfolk. In the 1901 census he was aged 15, born Emneth, Norfolk, a Gardener's Labourer, son of Emily Robb (a widow), resident Well Hirn, Emneth, Wisbech, Norfolk. Buried in Alexandria (Hadra) War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt. Section E. Grave 73.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1919:

ROBB Thomas of Emneth Norfolk private 1/4th battalion Northamptonshire regiment died 25 October 1918 in Mesopotamia Administration (with Will) London 17 October to Edward Robb manager of fruit farm and Walter Robb farmer and fruit grower. Effects £1555 15s. 9d.

RODWELL

George [Henry]

Photograph Courtesy and Copyright © Peter Hunter 2004	Private G/35373, Royal Fusiliers. Died on service 23 November 1918. Husband of J. Welbourn (formerly Rodwell), of Westerby Farm, Outwell. Appeared in the Absent Voters List 1918 resident of Great Sandy Field, Outwell. Buried in East part of Outwell Cemetery, Norfolk. Photograph Courtesy and Copyright © W. P. Smith 2000
Photograph Courtesy and Copyright © W. P. Smith 2000

SMITHEE

Charles Frederick

Trooper 2089, Hunstanton Troop, 'C' Squadron, 1st Battalion, Norfolk Yeomanry. Killed in action 5 December 1915, at Gallipoli. Aged 23. Resident Outwell, Wisbech, enlisted Melton Constable, Norfolk. Son of Robert and Miriam Smithee, of Up-to-Date Cottage, Outwell. In the 1901 census he was aged 8, born Outwell, son of Robert and Miriam, resident Cottage, Outwell Isle, Village, Outwell (Isle of Ely), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 18, born Outwell, Norfolk, a Labourer, son of Robert and Miriam Smithee, resident Uptodate Cottage, Outwell, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on Helles Memorial, Turkey (including Gallipoli). Panel 21.

VENNI

Harry

TF/4002 Private, 5th Battalion, attached 13th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. Died of wounds 31 July 1916. Aged 22. Son of William and Eliza Venni, of The Common, Upwell. Brother of below. Lived Aquaduct. In the 1901 census he was aged 5, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of William and Eliza Venni, resident Stow Fen, Stow Bardolph, Downham, Norfolk. In the 1911 census he was aged 16, born Outwell, Norfolk, a Labourer on Farm, son of William and Eliza Venni, resident Aqueduct, Outwell, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Buried in La Touret Military Cemetery, Richebourgh-L'Avoue, Pas de Calais, France. Plot III. Row K. Grave 15.

VENNI

Walter

Private 25070, 6th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. Killed in action 3 May 1917. Aged 20. Born Outwell, Wisbech, enlisted Norwich, Norfolk. Lived Aquaduct. Son of William and Eliza Venni, The Common, Upwell. Brother of above. In the 1901 census he was aged 4, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of William and Eliza Venni, resident Stow Fen, Stow Bardolph, Downham, Norfolk. In the 1911 census he was aged 14, born Outwell, Norfolk, at school, son of William and Eliza Venni, resident Aqueduct, Outwell, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 7.

WATTS

Harry

Private 326533, 1st/1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment formerly 3935, Cambridgeshire Regiment. Killed in action 10 October 1916. Aged 21. Son of George and Hannah Watts, of Rectory Road, Outwell. In the 1901 census he was aged 6, born Outwell, Cambridgeshire, son of George and Hannah Watts, resident Outwell Isle, Providence Place, Village, Outwell (Isle of Ely), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 17, born Outwell, Cambridgeshire, an Apprentice, son of George and Hannah Watts, resident Outwell Isle, Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 16 B.

WRIGHT

Arthur

[Originally researched as Archibald] Private 29371, 1st Battalion, Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action 7 August 1917. Aged 24. Born Outwell, Norfolk, resident Great Yarmouth, enlisted Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. Lived The Saddlery. Brother of below. In the 1901 census he was aged 9, born Outwell, Norfolk, a school boy, son of Robert T S and Rebecca Wright, resident Wisbech Road, Outwell, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 19, born Outwell, a Saddler and Harness Maker, resident Outwell, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Attested 21 February 1916 in Wisbech, aged 24 years 4 months, for service in the 5th Battalion, Norfolk Regiment, a Harness Maker, single, height 5 feet 8½ inches, weight 7 stone 12 lbs, chest 35-37½ inches. Served in France from 26 October 1916 to 4 March 1917 and 15 June 1917 until his death, his next of kin is listed as his sister Elsie Taylor, of Middle Drove, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. Embarked at Folkestone and disembarked Boulogne 15 June 1917, joined 1st Battalion 8 July 1917. Buried in Roclincourt Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Plot II. Row D. Grave 9.

WRIGHT

Herbert

Private T/203205, 6th Battalion, Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment). Died of wounds 18 October 1918. Born and resident Outwell, Norfolk, enlisted Attleborough, Norfolk. Lived The Saddlery. Brother of above. In the 1901 census he was aged 17, born Outwell, Norfolk, a Stitcher, son of Robert T S and Rebecca Wright, resident Wisbech Road, Outwell, Outwell (Norfolk), Wisbech, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 25, born Outwell, a Saddler and Harness Maker, resident Outwell, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Buried in Houchin British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Plot III. Row A. Grave 16.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1919:

WRIGHT Herbert of Outwell Norfolk private Royal West Surrey regiment died 18 October 1918 in France Administration Norwich 28 June to Elsie Wright spinster.
Effects £102. 4s. 1d.

1939-45

ARNOLD

Alfred Stewart

Warrant Officer (Pilot) 915438, Royal Air Force. Died 5 February 1944. Aged 25. Son of George Henry and Rose Porteous Arnold; husband of Ivy May (nee Wallis) Arnold, of Outwell, Norfolk, married April to June Quarter 1941 in Downham Registration District, Norfolk. Buried in Upwell Cemetery, Norfolk. Grave 141.

BIDWELL

Bernard

Private 14722302, 2nd Battalion, Highland Light Infantry (City of Glasgow Regiment). Killed in action 10 November 1944. Aged 19. Born 2 November 1925 in Cambridgeshire, resident Cambridgeshire. Son of John Robert and Grace Lucy Bidwell, of Outwell, Cambridgeshire. In the 1939 Register he was at school, resident with his parents, John R and Grave L Bidwell, at Clarwell House, Wisbech, Wisbech R.D., Cambridgeshire. Buried in Mierlo War Cemetery, Netherlands. Plot VII. Row F. Grave 13.

BLUNT

Ernest James

Corporal 5773904, 5th Battalion, Royal Norfolk Regiment. Died as a Japanese Prisoner of War 1 April 1942, captured at the fall of Singapore 15 February 1942. Aged 23. Born 20 February 1919 in Lincolnshire, resident Cambridgeshire. Son of Frederick James and Beatrice Blunt, of Outwell, Cambridgeshire. In the 1921 census he was aged 2, born Lincolnshire, son of Frederick and Bessie Blunt, resident Harold Bdge, Newton, Cambridgeshire. In the 1939 Register he was a Horticultural Labourer, resident with his parents, Frederick J and Betsy Blunt, resident Chalk Road, Outwell, Marshland R.D., Norfolk. Buried in Kranji War Cemetery, Singapore. Plot 9. Row A. Grave 17.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1946:

BLUNT Ernest James of Outwell Norfolk died on or since 1 April 1942 on war service Administration Norwich 7 May to Frederick James Blunt smallholder. Effects £223 17s. 8d.

The following letters from the government can be expanded by clicking on the image that will then open in a new window..

Death acknowledgement letter (below)

Burial acknowledgement letter (below)

Articles & letters kindly supplied by William P Smith, Outwell

BROWN

Reginald George

Suffolk Regiment. Died in United Kingdom 25 June 1941. Aged 28. Buried 30 June 1941 in Outwell (St. Clement) Churchyard, Norfolk.

COOPER

Eric

Flight Lieutenant 111769, 65 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 2 Tactical Air Force, based B 7/Martragny, France, flying Mustang IIIs. Killed in action when his aircraft, a Mustang III, serial number FZ135, dived into the ground near Evreux soon after dive bombing a target 12 July 1944. In the 1921 census he was aged 4, born Outwell, Norfolk, son of Herbert John and Grace Lizzie Cooper, resident Post Office, Church Drove, Outwell, Cambridgeshire. Buried in Dreux Communal Cemetery, Eure-et-Loire, France. Row 2. Grave 3.

COOPER

Raymond aka Ray

Corporal 632705, 1488 (Fighter) Gunnery Flight, Royal Air Force, Fighter Command. Flying in a Martinet TTI, serial number HP269, flying out of Hutton Cranswick, Yorkshire, he was killed whilst flying when the aircraft crashed near Hutton Cranswick when control was lost during a steep turn at low level while on a weather check flight 11 July 1943. Aged 25. Son of Thomas and Ethel Cooper; husband of Phyllis Irene (nee Leet) Cooper, of Outwell, married July to August Quarter 1941 in Downham Registration District, Norfolk. Buried 14 July 1943 in Outwell Cemetery, Norfolk. Row 5. Grave 13.

Extract from Wisbech Standard:

KILLED IN ‘PLANE
CRASH.
Military Funeral of
Outwell Airman.

A tragic ‘plane crash on Sunday afternoon, in which Cpl. Ray Cooper, a Canadian, of the Royal Air Force, lost his life, has robbed Outwell of a well-known and greatly-respected young man.

Cpl. Cooper landed in this country from Canada about six years ago, and joined the R.A.F. in February, 1938. His mother was a native of Upwell, and went with her husband to Canada many years ago. It was there that Ray was born in 1918. In 1941 he married his cousin, Miss Phyllis Irene Leet, of Outwell.

His officers spoke most highly of his ability and geniality, and he will be greatly missed by a host of friends. He is the second son that Mr. and Mrs. Cooper have lost in this war, while three more of their sons are still serving—one in the R.A.F., one in the Canadian Army, and the other in the Canadian Naval Service. In addition to the widow, Cpl. Cooper leaves a baby daughter.

THE FUNERAL.

The interment took place at Outwell Cemetery on Wednesday, after a choral service at St. Clement's Church. The Rev. Frank Ingle officiated, with Mrs. C. Andrews at the organ, and the hymns, “Jesu,' Lover of my Soul” and “Abide with Me” were sung. During the service the Rector bore -striking testimony to Cpl. Cooper's fine character, describing him as a regular churchman and one for whom he had a sincere regard.

The immediate mourners were: Mrs. P. I. Cooper, widow; Mr. and Mrs. H. Russell, step-father-in-law and mother-in-law: Mrs. D. Leet, sister-in-law; Mrs. Amps, grandmother; Mr. and Mrs. H. R. Scott, Mr, and Mrs. W. Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. S. Hardy, Mr. and Mrs. F. Amps, Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Reeve, Mr. And Mrs. T. Crouch and Mr. H. Amps, uncles and aunts; Mesdames C. Coates and E. Simmons, cousins; Barbara Judd, Mr. and Mrs. C. Means and Phyllis, Mr. and Mrs. F. Rayner, Mr. and Mrs. H. J. West and Monica, Mrs. H. Judd, Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Mercer and Stanley; Mr. J. Gowler, Pilot Officer R. F. Worsdell, Pilot Officer J. Ketley; Lieut. L. Doubleday and Sgt. J. Lovatt (Home Guard).

Among many others present were: Mesdames G. Robb, E. Gretton, J. Lovatt, J. Cousins, J. Carman, J. R. Bidwell, H. West, junr. J. Laws, H.Swann, H. Jakens, W. Allen, A. Powers, J. Feetham, Andrews, F. Wiles,, E. Burrows and L, Wallace.

Beautiful floral trilbutes were received from: .Loving wife and darling baby, Phyllis and Valerie; With deepest sympathy from Mum and Dad. Russell; From Mum and. Dad Cooper; In loving memory of my friend Ray, from Stanley Macer; Auntie Hilda and Phyllis; Uncle Wilfred and Stanley; Aunt Ada and Uncle Dick; Phyllis; Doris, Jim, and little Michael; Mollie, Don and Kay; Aunt Nance, Uncle Wal and family; Ronald and Elaine; Don and Eileen; Jack and Barbara; Fred and Nancy; Tot and Hugh, Grandma, Auntie. Florrie and May; Uncle Fred, Auntie Freda, John and May; Horace, wife and family: Mrs. B. and Janet: Two airmen's wives (0utwell): Mr. and Mrs. S. White (Welling, Kent); Mr. and Mrs. Dix and family; Mr. and Mrs. W. Calvert; Mr. and Mrs. E. Macer (Manea); Mrs. F. Wiles and Mrs. E. Burrows; In remembrance, from his Commanding Officer, Officers, N.C.O.s and airmen.

Cpl. Cooper was buried with military honours, the bearers being from an R.A.F. Regiment, under Cpl. H. I. Knight. The coffin was draped With the Union Jack and surmounted by a beautiful floral wreath and a floral cross. The breastplate was inscribed: “632705 Cpl. Raymond Cooper, died 11th July, 1943, aged 25 years.”

HITE

Thomas Payne

Sapper 2091748, 287 Field Company, Royal Engineers. Died as a Japanese Prisoner of War during the invasion of Malaysia and Singapore 28 January 1942. Aged 22. Born 15 October 1919 in Brandon, Norfolk, resident Cambridgeshire., enlisted 14 June 1939 in Wisbech. Son of Mr. and Mrs. P. Hite, of Outwell, Norfolk; husband of J. M. Hite, of 121 Mill Road, Cromer, Norfolk. In the 1921 census he was aged 1, born Lakenheath, Suffolk, son of Percy and Florence Hite, resident Downham Road, Outwell, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on Singapore Memorial, Singapore. Column 40.

Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1946:

HITE Thomas Payne of Church Drove Outwell Cambridgeshire died 28 January 1942 on war service Probate Norwich 13 August to Flo Hite (wife of Percy Hite).
Effects £194 13s. 6d.

HORNIGOLD

John Cephas

Ordinary Seaman P/JX 19054, French Ship Branlebas (torpedo boat), Royal Navy. Lost with his ship during a storm 25 miles south-south-west off Eddystone while she was serving in the Royal Navy 14 December 1940. Born 13 March 1920. Son of William and F. Hornigold, of Upwell. In the 1939 Register he was a Milkman, resident with his parents, William and Florence Hornigold, at 112 Pius Drove, Upwell, Wisbech R.D., Cambridgeshire,. No known grave. Commemorated on Portsmouth Naval Memorial, Hampshire. Panel 40, Column 1.

MEE

Herbert

Leading Stoker C/KX 108312, H.M.S. Pembroke, Royal Navy. Died from Carcinoma of Stomach and Metastasis of Pleura and Peritoneum in Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Mioddlesex, 6 August 1945. Aged 42. Born 9 December 1903 in Wisbech, Norfolk. Husband of Gladys May Mee, of West Ealing. Height 5 feet 6½ inches, chest 34 inches, brown hair, brown eyes, fresh complexion, orginally enlisted 9 December 1921 for 12 years. In the 1921 census, prior to his enlistment, he was aged 17, born Upwell, Cambridgeshire, a Horse Man working for Mr Geo Betts (a Farmer), boarding at Model Farm, Walpole St Peter, Cambridgeshire. Buried in Ealing and Old Brentford Cemetery, Middlesex. Section A. Row E. Grave 5.

SPRIGGS

George Ernest

Private 14655824, 6th Battalion, King's Own Scottish Borderers. Died 8 August 1944. Aged 19. Born and resident Cambridgeshire. Son of Alfred Edward and Rose Spriggs, of Outwell, Cambridgeshire. Buried in Bayeux War Cemetery, Calvados, France. Plot XXV. Row A. Grave 6.

SOPER

Arthur John Charles

Lieutenant 277728, 59 Medium Regiment, Royal Artillery. Killed in action 10 July 1944. Aged 30. Born London E., resident Cambridgeshire. Son of Arthur and Rose Annie Soper, of Hornchurch, Essex. Buried in St Manvieu War Cemetery, Cheux, Calvados, France. Plot IX. Row B. Grave 14.

WILSON

Kenneth George

Flight Sergeant (Air Gunner) 1603668, 76 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, based at Holme-on-Spalding Moor, flying Halifax bombers. Taken prisoner when his aircraft crashed at Celles sur Plaine, France, died of his injuries 2 March 1944. Aged 26. Son of Zachariah and Ada Wilson, of Outwell, Cambridgeshire. In the 1921 census he was aged 3, born Outwell, Cambridgeshire, son of Zachariah abd Ada Wilson, resident Rectory Road, Outwell, Cambridgeshire. Buried in Choloy War Cemetery, Meuthe-et-Moselle, France. Plot 1A. Row B. Collective Grave 19-22.

Mission details:

Flying in a Handley Page Halifax III, serial number LW629, part of Bomber Command, the aircraft took off on night operations 1 March 1944 from Holme-on-Spalding-Moor, the aircraft crashed at Celles sur Plaine, France.

Crew:

Basford R B (F/S)
Davies H T (F/S)
Drake A (Sgt)
Fenwick A (Sgt)
Greenhill G D (Sgt)
Wilson K G (F/S)

Extract from a local newspaper:

OUTWELL AIRMAN
POSTED MISSING
On His 26th Operational
Flight.

FLT-SGT. Kenneth George Wilson, a tail-gunner in the Royal Air Force, and 26-year-old son of 31r. Z. Wilson, of Outwell1 has been posted missing while on his 26th operational flight.

This sad news was received with I deep regret and anxiety in °awe', where Flt-Sgt. Wilson was well-known and popular, and it is the hope of all that he was able to bale out and save his life.

Ft-Sgt. Wilson joined the R.A.F. nearly two years ago, and soon rose to the rank of Sergeant. He was keenly interested in all out-door sports. Before joining up he worked for Mr. Henry Ward at Beaupre Hall Farm, commencing there after leaving school. His father was foreman on the same farm for thirty years.

He has four other brothers serving in H.M. Forces.

Last updated 27 March, 2026

War Memorials Trust