Roll of Honour - Cambridgeshire - Histon and Impington

Ministry of Defence

Lest We Forget

The Royal British Legion

HISTON AND IMPINGTON WAR MEMORIAL

World War 1 & 2 - Roll of Honour with detailed information
Compiled and copyright © Simon Doyle & Martin Edwards 2000

The memorial is to be found on the green beside the A1049 running through Histon. It takes the form of a Celtic cross mounted on a tapering shaft standing on an octagonal plinth with a two-stepped base. The inscriptions are around the faces of the plinth and on the front face of the top step. There are 41 names for World War 1 and 34 for World War 2. The memorial was first unveiled 21st November 1920, it cost £250 and the designer and mason was Mr fred Baccus. In 1951 the lettering was repainted and in 1964 the memorial was moved 50 yards to make way for the new by-pass atwhich time it was cleaned and the World War 2 were added. In 2002 an applicatiojn was placed for a grant to clean and repair the memorial.

Extract from Cambridge Independent Press - Friday 19 November 1920, page 8:

HISTON AND IMPINGTON.
Two Thousand People Attend Unveiling Ceremony.

Upwards of 2,000 persons assembled on Sunday afternoon in the vicinity of the triangular little piece of green opposite the Baptist Church, Histon, to witness the unveiling by Mr. John Chivers, J.P., of the handsome stone cross which has been erected at this spot in memory of the men of Histon and Impington who laid down their lives in the Great War. The monument itself is only part of the memorial scheme adopted by the sister villages of Histon and Impington, and represents a sum of £250 out of the total amount collected. The balance of the money used for purpose of providing an endowment for the little ones who have been left fatherless. This fund is now in the hands of a body trustees, consisting of the Chairman of the Histon Parish Council, the Chairman of the Impington Parish Council, the Chairman of the School Managers, and the President of the Comrades of the Great War.

Originally a large committee was elected at a public meeting to carry out the proposed memorial. Later the committee was reduced, it was felt that a large committee would too cumbrous, and better work could obtained from smaller one. The smaller committee consisted of Dr. L. G. Davies, Messrs. Sidney Tolliday, W. J. Unwin. W. C. Unwin. A. J. Bevis, P. J. King, S. S. Rowley, J. S. Chivers, A. Rhodes, W. A. Harding. J. M. Taylor, J.P., T. White and W. F. Robinson. Later, at the public meeting when the memorial scheme was approved, the committee was still further reduced, and Messrs. S. S. Rowley, A. Rhodes, W. C. Unwin, P. J. King, W. F. Robinson. J. S. Chivers and J. M. Taylor were constituted as the Monument Committee. The erection of the monument was entrusted to Lieut. F. Baccus, sculptor and monumental mason, of Histon, who is to be congratulated upon the admirable result of his work, which has given great satisfaction to the Committee and inhabitants generally.

THE MONUMENT.

The monument is of an octagonal design throughout, and 18 feet high. The base is 7 feet 6 inches across the flats. Above this the principal base, with eight sunk panels, adorned with carved laurel sprays in full relief. At the top of the column is an lonic pattern cross, the wheel forming a laurel wreath. The whole is made of the finest Portland stone, and set up on a concrete foundation 9 feet square by 18 inches deep. This is faced up with granolithic. Just over the principal base are the words, “Lest we forget,” and on the front panel:

This memorial was erected by the inhabitants of Histon and Impington in remembrance of the men of these parishes who died for their country and the freedom of nations. The Great War. 1914-1919.

Just beneath the front panel is the text. “Greater love hath man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” St. John xv., 13. Engraved in the back panel are the words:

When the power of the city shall seem great to you, consider then that it was purchased by valiant men, and by men who knew their duty.

The two panels either side of the front have the names of the fallen engraved thereon in the following order:

Horace W. Adams. Bertram Lee.

Stanley C. Andrews. Arthur R. Leet.

Jas. Biggs.

AIfred Brett. Alwyne R. Macfarlane-
Grieve.

A. Berechiah Carter. John Mansfield.

Stanley W. Charles. Bert Mansfield.

Harry H. Dawson. Hugh Martin.

Perry R. Dear. Percy J. Mowlam.

Percy S. Diver. Stanley M. Muncey.

Percy W. Doggett Harry Pettit.

C. Claude Forward. James E. Pettit.

Cecil C. Foster. Bertie E. Rogers.

Stanley J. Foster. Frank B. Simkin.

John Frost. Sidney E. Tibbett.

Henry G. Gatward. A. John Toates.

George Gawthrop. Charles Turney.

Sidney Gothard. Percy E. Webb.

Henry Grimwood Albert G. Wilderspin.

Charles S. Hardwick. William J. Widerspin.

Harry Knightley Charles Winders.

Arthur E. Knightley. Sidney Young.

The committee have gone to some trouble to get the correct names of all the fallen, and it is hoped that they have succeeded, as it would be hurtful to all concerned if any name was left off. Those most responsible for the work entailed are Mr. W. F. Robinson, who acted as chairman throughout, Mr. J. S. Chivers, the hon. treasurer, and Mr. J. M. Taylor, the hon. secretary. Most of the committee took their share in the work of collecting subscriptions, and several gentlemen of the villages also assisted in the effort, and deserve a work of thanks for their services.

YOUNG PEOPLE’S SERVICE.

Prior to the unveiling, which took place at 3.15, a young people’s united service was held in the Baptist Church at 2.15. Mr. A, Rhodes, Superintendent of the Baptist Sunday School, presided, and the prayer was read by Mr. R. Love. Superintendent, Wesleyan Sunday School. The Bible reading was by Mr. Bowles, late superintendent Histon Parish Church Sunday School, and the Rev. M. E. Aubrey, M.A., gave the address. During the service Mr. George Peek sang a solo, “My Task.” The closing prayer was said by Lieut. Elson, the head of the local corps of the Salvation Army. A collection was taken in aid of the Memorial Endowment Fund. Mrs. Smith, wife of the Rev. R. Smith, pastor, was at the organ. After the service the children were accommodated in a specially reserved enclosure in rear of the memorial.

THE UNVEILING.

Shortly before 3.15 the ex-Service men of the two villages marched up in fours and formed up two deep facing the monument on three sides. Captain S. S. Rowley, President, of the Histon and Impington Post of the Comrades of the Great War, was in command—No. 1 Company being under Sergt.-Major Toates, No. 2 under Sergt. R. Pettit, and No. 3 under Lieut. A. E. Robinson. Two Comrades, carrying a huge wreath of white chrysanthemums and lilies and pale pink carnations, and tied with tricolour ribbon, stood facing the memorial, and at their side was the bugler, Frank Carter.

Mr. S. H. Rowley, J.P., in a short introductory address, said that day would be for ever memorable. It was a solemn occasion, because they were paying respect to the dead. In the two villages of Histon and Impington some 365 men joined the Army, and 41 of them failed to return, and it was in their memory that they were met that day under that memorial stone. After asking for absolute silence during the ceremony as a mark of respect for the dead and sympathy for the bereaved, Mr. Rowley called upon Mr. John Chivers to unveil the memorial.

Mr. Chivers said they were gathered in honour of the brave warriors of Histon and Impington who gave their lives in the Great War. At the call of duty they went forth to fight for their country, for the principles of righteousness and liberty, and to save our homes from the tyranny of a foreign foe. This memorial that he was about to unveil had been erected in grateful and loving remembrance of those whose names were inscribed upon it. “Greater love hath no man than this, that lay down his life for his friend.” It was for those who remained to see to it that their supreme sacrifice had not been in vain. They would best honour their memory by endeavouring to the best of their ability to live for principles for which they had died—for truth and righteousness, for freedom and honour, striving their utmost to make this world a better and happier place for all, and, as far as possible, promoting “Peace on earth, goodwill amongst men.”

Captain Rowley then called the Comrades to attention, and Mr Chivers unveiled the memorial, which had been hidden behind the folds of the Union Jack. For a moment or two everybody remained silent with bowed heads. Then the Rev. R. Smith offered up an impressive and moving prayer, after which Mr. Henry Ribbons read Revelation XXI. verses 1 to 6.

THE DEDICATION.

After the hymn, “O God our help ages past,” had been sung, the Rev. W. C. Cooke, R.D., dedicated the monument. “In the faith of Jesus Christ,” said, “I dedicate this memorial on behalf of all the parishioners of Histon and Impington, and to the glory of God and in unfailing memory of those whose names are inscribed thereon.” Turning towards the monument, he then read out the names from each tablet in succession, and continued. “Who for our sakes and for their King and country waxed valiant in the fight. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen.”

The Rural Dean then asked those present to join for one minute silent prayer, after which he reminded them of Nelson’s famous signal. “England expects that every man will do his duty,” and said those words had been an inspiration to Englishman ever since. He was sure they were an inspiration to those whose names were graven upon that memorial, just as they were to those Comrades present, when they were called to go forth in the fight for right against might. And now that memorial, having upon it that little motto. “Lest we forgot,” would speak to them as they walked up and down the parish. It would be to them, and to all, he trusted, an inspiration to do as these men had done, and the words, “England expects that every man will do his duty,” would come to the minds, and, he trusted, hearts of their children bye-and-bye in days to come, when they looked upon that memorial, and asked “What does it mean?” “We know what it means,’’ he continued, “we have dedicated this monument to the unfailing glory of those men who in the cause of duty laid down their lives for God, for King, for country, for you, and for me. When they I see this cross here it will be to them, we hope, an inspiration to remember that the way of duty is not altogether one of pleasure and ease. It will speak to them of much that is demanded, as even in the case of these our brothers, whose names are here; it means even life itself, just as the One whose honour we ever keep gave His life a sacrifice for the whole world.”

And when we looked upon that cross and thought upon what our brothers had done, and what the Great Captain of our salvation had done, we should be stirred up to realise that life is not meant to be altogether pleasure, but that we have to be willing to sacrifice ourselves that others might gain from what we might term our loss. It would also speak to us and tell us that we have to fight the good fight. We must remember that men died that not might but right might prevail, and so we had to watch and strive to do the things that are right and true. He looked up, and at the top of the pillar there was a cross, and round the cross he saw a wreath of laurels. It told us of a life that is everlasting — they could not find any end to that ring of laurels, and there was no end to life everlasting—and the way to gain that life was through the cross, through trust in Him Who died for the sins of the world. “Not many more opportunities shall I have,” said the rev. gentleman, in conclusion, “and never another of seeing you together like this. I pray you remember that the Cross speaks of Jesus Christ: it tells us of the Saviour of the world, that He died to save you and I. We come to Him weak and helpless, but he gives us strength and helps us to do the duty before us, to overcome the wrong, and the cross here, with its crown of laurels, will give us inspiration, will it not? and we will live and walk not only as soldiers of the King, but soldiers of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

The closing prayer was then offered by Lieut. Elson, after which “God Save the King” was sung. Then the bugler sounded the "Last Post,” the Comrades laid their wreath at the foot of the monument, and the ex-Service men formed fours and marched away and made room for the large number of relatives and friends of the fallen heroes who were waiting to lay their tributes there too. Quite a large pile of wreaths and other floral emblems quickly accumulated, not least of the contributions being those of the children, some of whose offerings bore touching little inscriptions to the memory of some loved one.


Photographs Copyright © Phil Curme - 2000

Least We Forget

This memorial was erected by the inhabitants of Histon and Impington in remembrance of the men in these parishes who died for the country and the freedom of nations.

The Great War

1914-1919

when the power of the city shall seem great unto you. Consider then that it was purchased by valiant men and men who knew their duty.

ADAMS	Horace William	Private 325324, A Company, 1st/1st Cambridgeshire Regiment formerly 1710, Cambridgeshire Regiment, who was killed in action in France & Flanders on Wednesday, 18th September 1918. Born Histon and enlisted Cambridge. Lived at 1 Pleasant Row, Cambridge. Employed by Kerridge & Shaw. Buried in EPEHY WOOD FARM CEMETERY, EPEHY, Somme, France. Plot II. Row D. Grave 3. See also Cambridge Guildhall, Cambridge Holy Sepulchre and Cambridge St Luke's and Impington St Andrews
ANDREWS	Stanley Charles	Private 15905, 11th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who died on Wednesday, 17th October 1917. Aged 21. Son of Frederick and Hephzibah F. Andrews, of 4, Kingsway Quiet Corner, Histon, Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the TYNE COT MEMORIAL, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 40 to 41 and 162 to 162A.
BIGGS	James	Gunner 198356, "C" Battery, 78th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. Died of wounds 26th October 1918. Born Histon, enlisted Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Buried in VENDEGIES-AU-BOIS CHURCHYARD, Nord, France. Grave 4. See also Histon Methodist War M emorial
BRETT	Alfred	Lance Corporal, 235381, 2nd Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment who died on Friday, 14th June 1918. Son of Mr. R. Brett, of Manor Farm, Chesterton, Cambs. Buried in BIENVILLERS MILITARY CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot XIX. Row D. Grave 4. See also Cambrdge Guildhall and Impington St Andrews
CARTER	Alfred Berechiah aka Bere	Sapper 495039, 503rd Field Company, Royal Engineers who was killed in action on Thursday, 1st November 1917. Aged 25. Born Histon, Cambs, resident Cambridge, enlisted St. Pancras, Middlesex. Son of A. Carter, of Histon, Cambridge; husband of Ethel Jean Cavanagh (formerly Carter), of 113, Carson Rd., Plaistow, London. Baptised 25th September 1892 in Impington, son of Alfred (a publican) and Elizabeth Alexandra Carter. Buried in MINTY FARM CEMETERY, Langemark-Poelkapelle, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot II. Row C. Grave 7. See also Cambridge Guildhall and Impington St Andrews
CHARLES	Stanley William	Rifleman 235015, 1st/5th Battalion, The King's (Liverpool Regiment) formerly 10691, Suffolk Regiment, who was killed in action on Thursday, 20th September 1917. Aged 18. Born and resident Histon, Cambs, enlisted Cambridge. Son of K. and E. E. Charles, of New School Rd., Histon, Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the TYNE COT MEMORIAL, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 31 to 34 and 162 and 162A and 163A
DAWSON	Harry Hubert	Private 235558, 7th Battalion, Kings Own (Yorkshire Light Infantry) formerly 326720, Cambridgeshire Regiment. Died was killed in action on 20th November 1917. Enlisted Histon. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the CAMBRAI MEMORIAL, LOUVERVAL, Nord, France. Panel 8. See also Impington St Andrews
DEAR	Percy R	Air Mechanic 1st Class, F/5426, H.M.S. "President", Royal Naval Air Service who died, from injuries received from an airship accident, on Saturday, 28th April 1917. Aged 22. Born 12th November 1894 in Cambridge. Son of Mrs. Sarah Anne Dear, of Olive Vale Nursery, Impington, Cambridge. Height 5 feet 8½ inches, chest 35 inches, dark brown hair, fresh complexion. Employed as a Plumbeers & Gas Fitter. Buried in CAMBRIDGE (HISTON ROAD) CEMETERY, Cambridgeshire. Grave 20. A. 15. See also Impington St Andrews
DIVER	Cecil S	Private 15904, 11th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who was killed in action on Saturday, 1st July 1916. Born Histin, Cambs, enlisted Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 C and 2 A. See also Impington St Andrews
DOGGETT	Percy W	Private 16426, 1st/1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment who was killed in action, France and Flanders, on Thursday, 5th September 1918. Aged 20. Born Histon, enlisted Cambridge. Son of Mr. and Mrs. H. Doggett, of School Hill, Histon, Cambs. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Buried in PERONNE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, STE RADEGONDE, Somme, France. Plot III. Row M. Grave 35.
FORWARD	Charles Claude	Serjeant 10594, 1st Battalion, Highland Light Infantry who died on Friday, 25th October 1918. Born West Norwood, Surrey, resident Histon, Cambridgeshire, enlisted London. Husband of Rose Anne (nee Adams) Forward. A Regular soldier. In the 1911 census he was aged 23, born Norwood, Surrey, a Private in 'A' Company, 1st Highland Light Infantry, billeted in Outram Barracks, Dilkusha, Lucknow, India. His original attestation papers list him as being born Lambeth, Surrey, resident West Norwood, Surrey. Attested 23 November 1905 in London, aged 18 years 4 months although his apparent age is given as under 17 years, a Builder's Labourer, unmarried, height 5 feet 2¼ inches, weight 103 lbs, chest 31-33 inches, fresh complexion, grey eyes, light brown hair, religious denomination Wesleyan. Originally assigned as Private 4473, 5th Battalion, Duke of Cambridge's OWn (Middlesex Regiment but transferred to Highland Light Infantry 30 January 1907. In the 1901 census he is listed as Claud Forward, born Norwood, Surrey, aged 14, an Errand Boy, son of John and Rebecca Forward, resident 238, Romney Road, Lambeth, London & Surrey. In the Electoral Register for Impington Parish 1918 he is registered, with his wife Rose, as resident Cambridge Road, Impington. No known grave. Commemorated on the BASRA MEMORIAL, Iraq. Panel 35 and 64. See also Impington St Andrews Extract from Cambridge Independent Press - Friday 9 July 1915, page 7: MILITARY WEDDINGS. Wounded Soldiers as Character Actors in Bridal Procession. BRIDEGEOOM’S IRON CROSS. Private. Charles Forward, of the Highland Light Infantry who for some time has been a patient at the Histon Red Cross Hospital, has added another romance to his life’s adventures. On Monday afternoon all Histon saw him married to Miss Rose Anne Adams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Adams, who reside at New School-road in that village. Private. Forward was wounded the fighting near Ypres, and was brought to the 1st Eastern General Hospital at Cambridge, and subsequently transferred for convalescent treatment to the Red Cross Hospital at Histon. Here he remained for a short time, and when fully recovered was discharged. After visiting his home at Eastbourne on furlough, Private. Forward returned to Histon, for his wedding to Miss Rose Adams, who was employe at Messrs. Chivers’ Jam Factory. This is Histon Feast week, a week which is made especially memorable by the romantic and extraordinary circumstances of Monday's wedding. The ceremony was performed at the Histon Baptist Chapel by the Pastor, the Rev. R. Smith. The church was crowded with well-wishers, and the congregation included the Commandant and the entire staff of nurses at the Red Cross Hospital, and the soldier patients there, a large number of whom are personal friends of Private. Forward. The bride was given away by her father. She was attended by Miss Mabel Leet, a friend, who was bridesmaid, and Mr. Arthur Ward, of the Royal Warwicks, officiated as best man. When the bride and bridegroom left the chapel they had to pass through an arch of crutches, croquet mallets, and broomsticks and staves, formed by the wounded comrades of the bridegroom, who had lined up on each side the chapel porch. Through this arch the happy couple walked to the highway, where huge crowd awaited their coming. The crowd cheered them lustily. When they reached their carriage they found that the horses had been removed and the shafts siezed by a number of wounded soldiers, who, judging by their broad smiles, were thoroughly enjoying the event. The bridal pair had no option, but to become the chief attraction of a remarkable and amusing procession. The procession was headed by Bombr. Welsh, a Canadian, who carried a very long pole, with a very small flag at the top. The gallant bombardier was followed by a queer sort of band that included such euphonious instrumentalists as a bugler, concertina players, mouth organ melodists, and a vigorous drummer. The carriage in which Mr. and Mrs. Forward rode was preceded by a perambulator in which were two children attended by Harold Sknee, of the 8th Canadians, ono of the wounded soldiers, who was attired as a nurse. This was done, as a label explained, to represent the newly-wedded pair as they were 25 years ago. The bridal carriage, of course, represented the present, and a subsequent conveyance, with its occupants, the future of the bride and bridegroom. The conveyance was an object of great interest, which caused much laughter amongst the onlookers. It was a kind of gig, decorated with red, white, and blue colours, and drawn by a donkey, and in it rode a Darby and Joan couple. The old lady wore a smart costume and bonnet, and carried a parasol. She was seated beside a bearded patriarchal gentleman in his “Sunday best,” an antiquated long hat and top coat. With one hand he held the reins; with the other he tenderly embraced his wife. Attached to the cart was a card, on which was written “Sixty years after.” The old couple were wounded soldiers, admirably “made up.” Thomas Leet, of the R.H.A.. Cavalry Division, acted as the old man, and James Hall, of the Light Brigade, as the old woman. The procession travelled from end to end of the village, and the route was lined several deep on each side wth onlookers. Outside the house in New School-road the procession finally halted, and Private H. Bethune, of the Army Medical Corps Field Ambulance (Canadian), who until recently was a barrister in Canada, seized the opportunity to deliver a speech, a witty and eloquent speech, as it proved, which all who heard it say they would not have missed for all sorts valuable considerations. Private. Bethune, with solemnity suited to the occasion, apologised for the absence of Lord Kitchener, and remarked that he was commissioned to present the bridegroom with an iron cross for his bravery that day. This he did, amid roars of laughter from the crowd. He afterwards sincerely wished Private. and Mrs. Forward a happy married life. Three hearty cheers for the bride and bridegroom ended an event which Histon will never forget. At the end of this week Private. Forward expects to return to the front. The bride’s fellow workers at the Factory have presented her with a tea set. There were numerous other presents.
FOSTER	Cecil Charles	Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Petty Sessional Division of Cambridge, Roll of Service, July 1915 - listed as serving in RFA. Born 1st July 1885, baptised 25th August 1895 in Histon, son of Charles and Mary Jane Foster. In the 1901 census he was aged 5, born Histon, son of Charles and Mary J Foster, resident 26, Russell Street, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was aged 15, born Histon, a Cooperative erand boy, son of Charles and Mary Jane Foster, resident Dog Kennel Lane, Histon, Cambridgeshire. - probably Cecil C Foster, Gunner 93656, "D" Battery, 293rd Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. Died Friday 21st February 1919. Buried in DOUAI BRITISH CEMETERY, CUINCY, Nord, France. Row E. Grave 1.
FOSTER	Stanley Jack	Private 2739, 1/1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment who was killed in action, France and Flanders, on Monday, 13th November 1916. Born Histon, enlisted Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 16 B. Extract from Cambridge Independent Press - Friday 1st December 1916, page 4: CAMBS. ROLL OF HONOUR. HISTON Another Histon lad has laid down his life for his country, viz.. Private. Stanlev Foster, of the Cambridgeshires. The news had reached his father, Mr. William Foster, of Saffron-road, in a letter from a friend, although as yet no official intimation has been received from the War Office. Private. Foster enlisted quite early in the war, and some four months ago had a short furlough, coming home direct from the trenches. He is the fifth member of the local Court of the Ancient Order of Foresters to be killed in the war. An elder brother is also serving with the colours in France.
FROST	John	Private 28901, 1st Battalion, Grenadier Guards, formerly 3480, Household Battalion, who died of wounds in 35th General Hospital, Calais, on Monday 14th October 1918. Born 23rd february 1886. Enlisted Cambridge. Husband of Rose Frost, of Water Lane, Histon. In the 1901 census he was aged 15, born Gislingham, Suffolk, a Yard Boy on Farm, son of Keziah Frost (a widow), resident Back Street, Gislingham, Hartismere, Suffolk. In the 1911 census he was aged 25, born Gislingham, Suffolk, a Farm Labourer, married to Rose Frost who was born in Histon, aged 27, a Factory hand, resident Water Lane, Histon, Cambridgeshire. Buried in LES BARAQUES MILITARY CEMETERY, SANGATTE, Pas de Calais, France. Plot V. Row G. Grave 7. His grandson Bruce Frost of Littleport adds: "I visited the grave with my father, Robert, in 1957, and have photographs that we took on that occasion. I also have the photograph originally supplied to my grand mother, of a wooden cross said to mark grandad's grave. The irony is that this cemetery is so near to the coast, that it was flattened during the Second World War, and it is anybodys guess as to what exactly is now under the present white marble gravestones. I have both the original telegrams, sent to my grandmother, the first saying that grandad had been wounded in the back, and was in hospital in the 35th General Hospital, Calais. The telegram "regrets that permission to visit cannot be granted". As if my grandmother, with three small children, could have afforded it anyway! The second telegram says that grandad had died, and Family legend says that he was already on the boat to be brought home, but they removed his body, and buried him in "La belle France". I also have the statement of accounts of his pay as a soldier, which concludes that the sum of £1.5s.11d. was found on the deceased! I understand that he was a "Jam Factory Hand" at Chivers & Sons Limited, before he enlisted. He was certainly born at Gislingham, Suffolk, on 23 February 1886." See also Histon Methodist War Memorial
GATWARD	Henry George	Private 35553, 4th Battalion, Essex Regiment who was killed in action on Sunday, 25th November 1917 in Palestine. Born Therfield, Herts, enlisted Cambridge, resident Histon. Employed at Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the JERUSALEM MEMORIAL, Israel. Panels 33 to 39
GAWTHROP	George	Gunner 200205, "C" Battery, 223rd Brigade, Royal Field Artillery who died on Sunday, 22nd September 1918. Aged 38. Son of Jacob and Hannah Gawthrop; husband of Phoebe Gawthrop, of Impington Lane, Histon, Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Buried in LEBUCQUIERE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Pas de Calais, France. Plot III. Row C. Grave 20. See also Histon Methodist War Memorial
GOTHARD	Sidney	Lance Bombardier 48142, "C" Battery, 104th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery who died of wounds on Tuesday, 25th December 1917. Born and enlisted Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Buried in LIJSSENTHOEK MILITARY CEMETERY, Poperinge, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Plot XXVII. Row C. Grave 19A.
GRIMWOOD	Henry	Corporal 591021, "D" Company, 18th (London Irish Rifles) Battalion, London Regiment who died on service on Thursday, 18th April 1918. Aged 21. Son of Ernest Augustus and Agnes Grimwood, of The Grove, Water Lane, Histon, Cambs. Buried 22nd April 1918 at the West end in HISTON (ST. ANDREW) CHURCHYARD, Cambridgeshire.
HARDWICK	Charles Sidney	Private 41677, 2nd Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment, attached to 24th Brigade, Trench Mortar Battery, who was killed in action on Monday, 14th October 1918. Aged 19. Born Histon, Cambs, enlisted Cambridge. Son of Mr. and Mrs. S. Hardwick, of Cambridge Rd., Histon, Cambs. Buried in DOUAI BRITISH CEMETERY, CUINCY, Nord, France. Row G. Grave 5.
KNIGHTLEY, DCM	Arthur Ernest	Serjeant, 15701, 11th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who died on Sunday, 26th August 1917. Born Impington, Cambs, enlisted Cambridge. Husband of G. M. Knightley, of The Mill, Histon, Cambs. Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (D.C.M.). Buried in HARGICOURT BRITISH CEMETERY, Aisne, France. Plot I. Row C. Grave 33. See also Histon Methodist War M emorial
KNIGHTLEY	Henry William Louis aka Harry	Private 15851, 11th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. Killed in action on Saturday, 1st July 1916. Enlisted Impington. In the 1901 census he was aged 19, a Gardener, born Impington, resident with his widowed mother, Charlotte, in Doctors Close, Impington, Chesterton, Cambridgeshire. In the 1911 census he was married to Emily with three sons, aged 29, a Gardener, born Impington, resident 9, St Matthews Court, Cambridge. No known grave. Commemorated on the THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 C and 2 A.See also Cambridge Guildhall and Cambridge St Matthew's and also Impington St Andrews
LEE	Bertram	Private 3/7991, 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who was killed in action on Saturday, 22nd January 1916. Born Histon, Cambs, enlisted Cambridge. No known grave. Commemorated on the YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 21.
LEET	Arthur Richard	Bombardier 93957, Royal Field Artillery. Died of gas poisoning 9th July 1919. Aged 37. Husband of Lily Maude Leet (she died 11th January 1956, aged 73). Father of three children - Violet, Gladys and Maude. Buried in HISTON CEMETERY, Cambridgeshire. See also Histon Methodist War Memorial
MACFARLANE-GRIEVE	Alwyn Ronald	[Also listed as Alwyne in some records] Lieutenant, 1st/8th Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders who died on Saturday, 17th March 1917. Aged 28. Son of Florence E. Macfarlane-Grieve, of Toft Manor, Cambridge, and the late W. A. Macfarlane-Grieve. Buried in HIGHLAND CEMETERY, ROCLINCOURT, Pas de Calais, France. Plot II. Row A. Grave 13. See also Impington St Andrews From Andy Pay's research into the Marquis de Ruvigny's Roll of Honour, Volume 2, Part 4, Page 70, the following: MACFARLANE-GRIEVES, Alwyn Ronald - Lieutenant, 8th (Territorial) Battalion, Princess Louises(Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders) 2nd son of William Alexander Macfarlane-Grieve, of Impington Park, Cambridge, and Edenhall and Penchrise, co. Roxburgh, M.A., S.C.L.F.S.A., J.P., by his wife, Florence Emily, dau. of the Rev. Morris Fuller; born London, 17th May,1888; educated St. Faiths School; The Purse School, Cambridge, where he was Captain of the school and senior sergeant in the O.T.C., and Keble College, Oxford, where he was an exhibitioner and sergeant in the university O.T.C., graduating with second class honours in the Modern History School in 1911; he afterwards studied and lecturedat the University of Rennes. On the outbreak of war he undertook Military work in Cambridge and was also Lieut. in the Perse school O.T.C.; underwent a musketry course at Hythe, and returned to Cambridge as Instructor to an Officers cadet battalion; obtained a commission in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders in July,1916; served with The Expeditionary Force in France and Flanders from the following Nov., and was killed in action at Roclincourt, near Arras, 17th March,1917. Buried there. His company commander wrote: "He was killed on the forefront of the German front line, while encouraging his men, like the good soldier he was. We miss him very much indeed, and all mourn the loss of an excellent soldier, a great organizer, and good friend." The headmaster of Perse School also wrote: "Lieut. Macfarlane-Grieve was the embodiment of chivalry and honour, and he died like a man and a soldier in a great cause." Unm
MANSFIELD	Bertie aka Albert	Private G/17657, 9th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment who was killed in action on Monday, 11th June 1917. Born Impington, enlisted Bury St Edmunds. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 20. See also Histon Methodist War Memorial and also Impington St Andrews
MANSFIELD	John	Private 328074, 1/1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment, formerly 6752, Cambridgeshire Regt. who was killed in action, France and Flanders, on Friday, 23rd November 1917. Born Impington, enlisted Bury St Edmunds. No known grave. Commemorated on the TYNE COT MEMORIAL, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 148. See also Histon Methodist War Memorial and also Impington St Andrews
MARTIN	Hugh	Private 5524, 2nd Battalion, Suffolk, Regiment who died of wounds on Wednesday, 16th December 1914. Aged 32. Born Milton, Cambs, enlisted Cambridge. Son of Hugh Palmer Martin, of Milton, Cambridge; husband of Alice Mary Martin, of Saffron Close, Histon, Cambridge. Buried in BAILLEUL COMMUNAL CEMETERY, Nord, France. Row E. Grave 2.
MOWLAM	Percy James	Serjeant 84389, 203rd (Cambs) Field Company, Royal Engineers, who died of wounds on Saturday, 26th August 1916. Aged 37. Born Impington, Cambs, resident Bishops Stortford, Herts, enlisted Cambridge. Son of James and Rebecca Mowlam; husband of Alice Ann Mowlam, of "The Hollies," Impington, Cambridge. Buried in CORBIE COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION, Somme, France. Plot 2. Row B. Grave 82. See also Impington St Andrews Extract from Cambridge Independent Press - Friday 6 October 1916 – page 4: HISTON. Another account of the death of Sergt. Percy J. Mowlam, of the Royal Engineers, is forwarded by Sapper George Merry, who states that he was the only man with him at the time when he was mortally wounded. "I was with him,” he says, “about seven hours during terrible bombardment of our trenches, and I and four of the Lancashires brought him to the nearest dressing station, about three-miles from the place where he received his wounds.”
MUNCEY	Stanley Merrick	Private 49723, 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment who died of wounds on Sunday, 29th September 1918. Aged 19. Born Histon, Cambs, resident Impington, Cambs, enlisted Bury St. Edmunds. Son of Richard and Eliza Muncey, of South Rd., Histon, Cambs. Born at Impington, Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Buried in GREVILLERS BRITISH CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot XIV. Row E. Grave 13. See also Impington St Andrews
PETTIT	James E	[Spelt PETTIT on SDGW] Private 9565, 1st Battalion, King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry who was killed in action on Saturday, 8th May 1915. Aged 27. Born Histon, Cambridgeshire, enlisted Ely. Son of Ephraim and Harriet Pettit, of Milton Rd., Impington, Cambs. No known grave. Commemorated on the YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 47. See also Impington St Andrews
PETTITT	Harry	Gunner 60925, 254th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery who died of wounds on Friday, 12th April 1918. Aged 23. Born Newmarket, Suffolk, resident Histon, Cambs, enlisted Cambridge. Son of William and Louisa Pettitt, of Clay St., Histon, Cambs. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the TYNE COT MEMORIAL, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 6 to 7 and 162.
ROGERS	Bertie E	Pioneer 158931, 2nd Special Brigade, Royal Engineers. Killed in action 27th June 1916. Aged 19. Born Cambridge, enlisted Chatham. Buried in CARNOY MILITARY CENMETERY, Somme, France. See also Impington St Andrews Note: Royal Engineers Special Brigades were gas troops.
SIMKIN	Frank Bailey	[Also spelt SIMPKINS] Private 202106, 9th Battalion, Essex Regiment who was killed in action on Tuesday, 17th July 1917. Aged 36. Born Waterbeach, enlisted Cambridge, resident Impington. Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Simkin, of Waterbeach, Cambs; husband of Annie Simkin, of Cambridge Rd., Histon, Cambridge. No known grave. Commemorated on the ARRAS MEMORIAL, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 7. See also Impington St Andrews
TIBBETT	Sidney E	[Listed as TIBBITT on CWGC] Rifleman 8894, 1st Bn Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own). Killed in action 5th November 1914. Born Histon, enlisted Cambridge, resident Histon. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Nephew of Mr J. Tibbitt, of High Street, Histon. Buried in LE TOUQUET RAILWAY CROSSING CEMETERY, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut, Belgium. Row C. Grave 8.
TOATES	Alfred John	Private 19771, 2nd Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment (Princess Charlotte of Wales) who was killed in action on Saturday, 1st July 1916. Aged 36. Born Histon, enlisted Leyton, Essex, resident of Impington, Cambs. Son of Susan Toates, of Victoria House, Pepy's Terrace, Impington, Cambridge. Buried in OVILLERS MILITARY CEMETERY, Somme, France. Plot VI. Row R. Grave 5. See also Impington St Andrews
TURNEY	Charles Frederick	Private 15902, 11th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who was killed in action on Saturday, 1st July 1916. Born Oakington, Cambs, enlisted Cambridge. No known grave. Commemorated on the GORDON DUMP CEMETERY, OVILLERS-LA BOISSELLE, Somme, France. Plot VI. Row D. Grave 6.
WEBB	Percy Ernest	Private 41810, 1st Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment. Killed in action 26th October 1917. Born Histon, enlisted Cambridge, resident Impington. No known grave. Commemorated on the TYNE COT MEMORIAL, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 90 to 92 and 162 to 162A. See also Impington St Andrews
WINDERS	Charles aka Charley	Sapper 42761, 74th Field Company, Royal Engineers who died of wounds on Sunday, 9th June 1918. Aged 40. Born and resident Cambridge, enlisted Winchester, Hants. Son of Smith and Mary Ann Winders, of Histon, Cambs. Employed at Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Buried in DUISANS BRITISH CEMETERY, ETRUN, Pas de Calais, France. Plot VI. Row G. Grave 16.
WILDERSPIN	Albert G	Private 15818, 11th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who was killed in action on Thursday, 3rd August 1916.Born Histon, enlisted Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on the THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 C and 2 A. See also Histon Methodist War M emorial
WILDERSPIN	William Joseph	Private 15901, "B" Company. 11th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who was killed in action on Saturday, 1st July 1916. Aged 18. Born Histon, enlisted Cambridge. Son of Mrs. F. Wilderspin, of High St., Histon, Cambridge. Employed Chivers & Sons Ltd, Histon. Buried in GORDON DUMP CEMETERY, OVILLERS-LA BOISSELLE, Somme, France. Plot VI. Row H. Grave 1. See also Histon Methodist War Memorial
YOUNG	Sidney	Private 7239, 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who died on Wednesday, 26th August 1914. Aged 29. Husband of Mrs. M. Young, of near The Old Schools, Histon, Cambs. No known grave. Commemorated on the LA FERTE-SOUS-JOUARRE MEMORIAL, Seine-et-Marne, France.
1939-1945
ALLGOOD	Ronald	Private 5933499, 2nd Battalion, The Cambridgeshire Regiment, Suffolk Regiment who died on Saturday, 14th February 1942. Aged 21. Died in hospital in Singapore the day before the British surrender of the island. Son of Ernest William Allgood, and of Hilda Allgood, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. Brother to Ernest William John, Frederick Gordon, Queenie and Muriel Allgood. No known grave. Commemorated on the SINGAPORE MEMORIAL, Singapore. Column 57.
BENNETT	Franklin James	Private 5932687, 1st Battalion, The Cambridgeshire Regiment, Suffolk Regiment who died on Tuesday, 19th October 1943. Aged 24. Prisoner of War. Cause and place of death unknown. Son of Laurie and Alice Bennett; husband of Edna Bennett, of Stockton-on-Tees, Co. Durham. Buried in CHUNGKAI WAR CEMETERY, Thailand. Grave 9.K. 13. See also Histon Methodist War Memorial Extract from local paper: Driver F. J. Bennett, Cambs. Regiment, husband, of Mrs. Edna Bennett, of Redear, Yorks., and only son of Mr. and Mrs. L. Bennett, of 42, Cottenham Road, Histon. Educated at Histon Council School before being called up he worked for Mr. Brown, Gwydir Street, Cambridge. On Saturday his wife received an undated telegram, which said "Safe and well."
BURTON	Arthur Charles	Private 5827910, 5th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who died on Tuesday, 27th July 1943. No known grave. Commemorated on the SINGAPORE MEMORIAL, Singapore. Column 54. See also Impington St Andrews
BUTTIFANT	Stanley Frederick	Corporal, 14703237, 1st Battalion, The Herefordshire Regiment, King's Shropshire Light Infantry who died on Tuesday, 1st May 1945. Aged 36. Buried in HAMBURG CEMETERY, Germany. Grave 4A. 0. 7. See also Impington St Andrews
CARTER	Alfred Roland	Private 5933760, HQ company, 2nd btn The Cambridgeshire Regiment, Suffolk Regiment who died on Tuesday, 13th July 1943. Aged 21. Prisoner of War. Died at Tarso. Buried in KANCHANABURI WAR CEMETERY, Thailand. Plot 4. Row G. Grave 27. See also Impington St Andrews Extract from Cambridge Independent Press in 1945: Died in Thailand. News has been received by Mrs. Ls Carter, of 68, Orchard road, Histon, that her fifth son, Pte. Alfred Roland Carter, of the 2nd Cambs. Regiment, died of avitaminosis while a prisoner of war in Thailand camp an July 13th, 1943. Pte. Carter, who was 23 years of age, was educated at Histon school and afterwards worked for Messrs. Chivers. He was a keen footballer and played in goal for Histon Institute.
CHARLES	Ralph Terence	Sergeant, 1874041, 97 Sqdn., Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve who died on Wednesday, 16th February 1944. 97 Squadron were based at Bourn, with detachments at Graveley, Gransden Lodge and Oakington flying Lancasters. Buried in FAABORG NEW CEMETERY, Denmark. Grave 50A.
CHURCH	William Benjamin	Private 6097378, 2nd Battalion, The Queen's Royal Regt (West Surrey) who died on Friday, 5th December 1941. Aged 26. No known grave. Commemorated on the ALAMEIN MEMORIAL, Egypt. Column 54
CLARY	Cecil Francis	Serjeant, 5933560, HQCompany, 2nd btn. The Cambridgeshire Regiment, Suffolk Regimentwho died on Thursday, 21st September 1944. Aged 25. Prisoner of War. Died at sea. Son of Alfred Henry and Beatrice Clary; husband of Violet Mary Clary, of Oakington, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on the SINGAPORE MEMORIAL, Singapore. Column 57. Extract from Cambridge Independent Press 1945: Missing at Sea.—News has just been received by Mrs. Violet Clary, that her husband, Sergt. Cecil Francis Clary, has been missing at sea since November, 19441 when the ship which was conveying him from Thailand to Japan was sunk. Sergt. Clary, who is the son of Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Clary, of 14, Mill Lane, Histon, was educated at the Cambridge and County High School, and before enlisting was employed by Messrs. Pickfords Ltd.
COLE	Dennis Louis	Serjeant, 5776000, 1st Battalion, Royal Norfolk Regiment who died on Thursday, 1st March 1945. Aged 25. Son of George and Minnie Cole; husband of Dulcie Mary Cole, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. Buried in REICHSWALD FOREST WAR CEMETERY, Germany. Grave 48. A. 13. See also Impington St Andrews and also Cambridge St John's
DAVIES	Robert Griffith	Private 5933768, 2nd Battalion, The Cambridgeshire Regiment, Suffolk Regiment missing in action on Sunday, 1st February 1942. Aged 22. Son of Griffith and Gladys Davies, of Impington, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on the SINGAPORE MEMORIAL, Singapore. Column 58. See also Impington St Andrews
DYER, DFM	Eric	Sergeat 1160202, 44 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Killed in action flying out of Waddington, Lincolnshire in a Handley Page Hampden I, serial number AE152, when the aircraft was lost over the North Sea during a raid on Berlin 2 September 1941. Aged 28. Born 16 January 1913. Native of Leicester. Son of Harry and Edith Dyer; husband of Joan Rosalie Dyer, of Leicester. Awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal (D.F.M.). In the 1921 census he was aged 8. born Doncaster, Yorkshire, son of Harry and Dorothy Dyer, boarding at 7, Perowne Street, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire. In the 1939 Registyer he was born 16 January 1913, married to John R Dyer, he was a Traveller, resident with his widowed father, Harry Dyer, at 11 Cottenham Road, Histon, Chesterton R.D., Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL, Surrey. Panel 42. Extract from Cambridge Independent Press 1941: MISSING OVER ENEMY COUNTRY Our picture is of Sergt. Eric Dyer, D.F.M., R.A.F. (Air Gunner), who has been reported missing over enemy country. The son of Mr. and Mrs. H. Dyer, of Cottenham Road, Histon, Sergt. Dyer is aged. 28 and was awarded the D.F.M. in September. He attended the Cambridge and County School for Boys.
ELLIS	Kenneth Custance	Sergeant, 1259306, 18 Sqdn., Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve who died on Saturday, 18th July 1942. Aged 32. 18 squadron flew Blenheims, from Wattisham, with detachments at Dundonald and Heathfield. Son of Bernard William and Florence Hilda Ellis, of Comberton; husband of Doris Irene Ellis, of Cambridge. Buried in COMBERTON (ST. MARY) CHURCHYARD, Cambridgeshire. See also Impington St Andrews
FELL	Robert Dewhurst	Gunner, 982165, 65 (The Norfolk Yeomanry) Anti-Tank Regt, Royal Artillery who died on Friday, 23rd January 1942. Aged 27. Son of Herbert and Ellen Fell; husband of Ethel Irene Fell, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. Buried in BENGHAZI WAR CEMETERY, Libya. Grave 2. A. 31.
GAUTREY	Neville Claude	Sapper, 2073577, 287 Field Company., Royal Engineers who died on Wednesday, 18th August 1943. Prisoner of war. Buried in THANBYUZAYAT WAR CEMETERY, Myanmar. Grave B4. D. 2. Extract from Cambridge Independent Press in 1946: Prisoner of War's Death.—Our picture is of L.-Corpl. Neville Claude Gautrey, R.E., son, of the late Mr W. J. Gautrey and of Mrs. Gautrey, of 31 Somerset Road, Histon a prisoner of war, whose death from dysentery at Soukrai, Thailand, has just been reported. Aged 23, he was a Territorial. and before the war was apprenticed to F. L. Unwin, Ltd., builders, of Histon.
GWYNN	Douglas Eric	Sergeant, 902176, 248 Sqdn., Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve who died on Monday, 25th May 1942. Aged 21. L 248 Sqaudron flew Beaufighters, from Dyce. Son of Douglas Percy and Elsie Barbara Gwynn; husband of Beryl Yvonne Gwynn, of Chesterton, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on the RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL, Surrey. Panel 84.
HEMPSALL [LAMB]	Aubrey	Lieutenant, 179051, East Yorkshire Regiment who died on Monday, 7th August 1944. Aged 29. Son of Cecil James Hempsall and Grace Hempsall; husband of Sybil Elsie Hempsall, of Newark, Nottinghamshire. Buried in ST. CHARLES DE PERCY WAR CEMETERY, Calvados, France. Grave III. C. 15. See also Impington St Andrews
LAMB	Dennis Charles	Sergeant, 741579, Pilot, 108 Sqdn., Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve who died on Thursday, 19th October 1939. Aged 26. 108 Squadron flew Blenheims, from Bicester. Son of Sidney Charles and Alice Lamb, of Impington. Buried CHERRY HINTON (ST. ANDREW) CHURCHYARD, Cambridgeshire
LAWSON	Wilfred George	Private 5830973, 2nd Battalion, The Cambridgeshire Regiment, Suffolk Regiment, who died on Saturday, 24th July 1943. Aged 24. Prisoner of War. Died at Tarso. Son of Alfred Thomas Lawson and Annie Rachel Lawson, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. Buried at KANCHANABURI WAR CEMETERY, Thailand. Grave 4. A. 47.
LAYTON-SMITH	Michael Stuart	Pilot Officer, 183715, Air Bomber, 7 Sqdn., Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve who died on Saturday, 19th August 1944. Aged 22. 7 Squadron, flew Lancasters, from Oakington. Son of Archibald John and Ivy Gladys Layton-Smith; husband of Norah May Layton-Smith, of Cambridge. Buried in BERGEN GENERAL CEMETERY, Netherlands. Plot 2. Row A. Grave 10. Extract from Cambridge Independent Press in 1945: Missing, Now Presumed Killed. — News has been received by Mr, and Mrs. A. J. Layton-Smith, of "Kantara," 59, Cottenham Road, Histon, that their only son, Pilot-Officer Michael S. Layton-Smith R.A.F. Pathfinders, who was reported missing on air operations over N.W. Holland on the 18th-19th August, 1944, must now be presumed killed. Aged 22, P.-O. Layton-Smith joined the R.A.F in 1941. Educated at the County School, he was employed at the Cambridge University Library before joining the R.A.F.
MAY	Eric William	Private 2664953, Pioneer Corps who killed by a German mine on Tuesday, 10th July 1945. Aged 22. Son of John William and Daisy Emma May, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. He was educated at Histon School and afterwards worked at Histon Station. No known grave. Commemorated on the BROOKWOOD MEMORIAL, Surrey. Panel 21. Column 1.
MORGAN	Gerard Austin	Private 5833057, 4th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment who died on Wednesday, 24th November 1943. Aged 30. Prisoner of War. Buried in THANBYUZAYAT WAR CEMETERY, Myanmar. Plot B6. Row W. Grave 12. See also Impington St Andrews
NICHOL	Thomas Reah	[NICOL in CWGC] Gunner 6461206, 608 Regiment, Royal Artillery. Died 10 April 1945. Aged 31. Son of James and Mary Ellen Nicol; husband of Mary Lilian Exton Nicol, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. Buried in LONGUENESSE (ST. OMER) SOUVENIR CEMETERY, Pas de Calais, France. Plot 4. Row AA. Grave 23.
PARKER	Charles Robert George	Lieutenant, 204309, 6th Battalion, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regt who died on Monday, 26th October 1942. Aged 21. Son of Herbert and Maud Parker, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. Buried in EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY, Egypt. Plot XXVII. Row G. Grave 14. See also Histon Methodist War Memorial
PARKER	Ernest John	Private 6853903, 1st Battalion, Parachute Regiment, A.A.C. who died on Friday, 5th February 1943. Aged 20. Son of Fanny Parker, of Impington, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on the MEDJEZ-EL-BAB MEMORIAL, Tunisia. Face 36. See also Impington St Andrews
PECK	Raymond Stanley	Sergeant, 910540, 99 Sqdn., Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve who died on Thursday, 26th June 1941. Aged 21. 99 Squadron, flew Wellington bombers, from Waterbeach. Son of Stanley Frederick and Dora Peck, of Cambridge. No known grave. Commemorated on the RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL, Surrey. Panel 50.
PETTIT	George Robert	Stoker 1st Class, P/KX 88290, H.M. Submarine Triton, Royal Navy who died on Wednesday, 18th December 1940. Aged 25. Son of Richard and Claretta Pettitt, of Histon, Cambridgeshire; husband of Ethel May Pettitt. No known grave. Commemorated on the PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 42, Column 2.
ROBERTS	John Ffrangcon	Surgeon Lieutenant, H.M.S. Rosaura., Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve who died on Tuesday, 18th March 1941. Aged 25. Son of Dr. Ffrangcon Roberts, M.D., and Winifred Agnes Roberts, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. B.A. (Cantab.), M.R.C.S. Mentioned In Dispatches. No known grave. Commemorated on the PLYMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Devon, L.R.C.P. Panel 61, Column 3. Extract from Cambridge Daily News in 1941: LIEUT. J. FFRANGCON ROBERTS “Most Courageous and Noble Deed” Surgeon-Lieut. John Ffrangcon Roberts, R.N.V.R., who was previously reported missing, presumed killed, is now known to have lost his life when the ship on which he was serving, H.M.S. Rosaura, was sunk by a mine in the Mediterranean on March 18th, 1941. He was the elder son of Dr. and Mrs. Ffrangcon Roberts, The Gables, Histon, Cambs. Aged 25, he was educated at King’s College School, Cambridge, Marlborough, and Trinity College, Cambridge. After taking the Natural Science Tripos he received his clinical instruction at the London Hospital, where he qualified M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., in July, 1939. Before joining the R.N.V.R. in April, 1940, he was in turn house officer at the Albert Dock Hospital and resident anaesthetist at the London. CAPTAIN’S TRIBUTE Captain R. Spencer, R.N.R., in a letter to Mrs. Roberts, says: “Will you please accept my very deepest sympathy on the sad loss of your son John in the Rosaura. “It may comfort you a little to know that before he went he did a most courageous and noble deed. “The mine exploded under the engine room, and all the staff in that compartment had their legs broken. One of the greasers had both legs broken, and although the engine room was rapidly filling with water your son very bravely went down, and with assistance, brought the greaser on deck. There were several other injured men on deck, and John’s clothes and hands were in such a filthy state from the oil and water of the engine room that he went to his cabin to wash his hands. The ship sank very quickly, and he went with her. “He was the best of shipmates, and the most popular member of the wardroom mess. His death has been a great shock and sorrow to us all.”
SALE	Jack Kenneth Aworth	[Kenneth Jack Aworth SALE in CWGC], Pilot Officer 105168, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Died 27 August 1941. Buried in IMPINGTON (ST. ANDREW) CHURCHYARD, Cambridgeshire. Grave 50. See also Impington St Andrews.
SALMON	Alfred William	Able Seaman, P/JX 295724, H.M. Submarine Simoom, Royal Navy who died on Friday, 19th November 1943. Aged 22. Son of Horace Samuel and Gertie Olive Salmon, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on the PORTSMOUTH NAVAL MEMORIAL, Hampshire. Panel 75, Column 3.
THURLBOURN	Derek Sidney	[Also listed as THURLBOURNE] Private 14328571, Essex Regiment serving with 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. Killed in action in Burma on 7th January 1944. Aged 19. Baptised 7th June 1924 at Oakington, son of Ernest and Mabel Thurlbourn. His father died on 27th April 1944 and his mother died 13th August 1975. They lived at Orchard Road, Histon. No known grave. Commemorated on RANGOON MEMORIAL, Myanmar (Burma). Face 15.
TOLLIDAY	Jack	Trooper, 7956546, 'C' Sqn., Royal Scots Greys (2nd Dragoons), R.A.C. who died on Thursday, 16th September 1943. Aged 36. Son of George and Elsie Tolliday; husband of Marguerite L. S. Tolliday, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on the CASSINO MEMORIAL, Italy. Panel 1. See also Histon Methodist War Memorial
WILLIAMS	Albert	Private 5933763, 2nd Battalion, The Cambridgeshire Regiment, Suffolk Regiment who died on Wednesday, 28th January 1942. Aged 22. Son of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Williams, of Histon, Cambridgeshire. SINGAPORE MEMORIAL, Singapore. Column 62.
WILSON	Percy William	Serjeant, 542321, 10th Royal Hussars, R.A.C. who died on Saturday, 31st January 1942. Aged 37. Husband of R. E. O. Wilson, of Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire. No known grave. Commemorated on the ALAMEIN MEMORIAL, Egypt. Column 19.
WOODWARD	Roy	Lance Corporal, 5933769, 2nd Battalion, The Cambridgeshire Regiment, Suffolk Regiment who died on Saturday, 25th September 1943. Aged 23. Prisoner of War. Son of Ray and Lottie Woodward; husband of Sylvia Woodward, of Cambridge. Buried in KANCHANABURI WAR CEMETERY, Thailand. Plot 2. Row E. Grave 6. See also Cambridge St Lukes Extract from Cambridge Independent Press 1945: Died in Thailand.—Official news has been received by Mrs. Sylvia Woodward, of 25, Darwin Drive, Cambridge, that her husband, Lance-Corpl. Roy Woodward, 2nd Batt., Cambs. Regiment, died in Thailand on September 25th, 1943, aged 26 years. The cause of death was not stated. He was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Woodward, of Histon, and was educated at Histon and the Technical College, Cambridge.
Buried in the cemetery but not on memorial
HUNT	William James	Flight Lieutenant (Pilot) 83726, 219 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Died 14th December 1942. Aged 31. Son of Mr. and Mrs. William James Hunt; husband of Gladys May Hunt, of Histon. Buried in HISTON CEMETERY, Histon, Cambridgeshire. Plot G. Row C. Grave 5.

Last updated 31 October, 2025

War Memorials Trust