John Rawson

Private John Rawson enlisted in Retford on 11th December 1915, giving his age as 38 yrs, he is a farmer, he was posted to the reserves and was mobilised on 21st March 1917 and served with the 4th battalion North Staffordshire Regiment , He went to France on 5th October 1917. He had 21 wounds in addition to having one foot amputated. After a short stay in hospital in France he was bought home and subsequently died of wounds in Perth Hospital on May 13th 1918 .His funeral took place at Laneham on May 19th with full military honours and he is buried in St Peters churchyard at Laneham.

Pte J Rawson Retford Times 31st May 1918

We regret to report that another Laneham soldier has laid down his life for his country. This fallen soldier was 40 years of age, third son of William Rawson, late of Laneham: was a typical agriculturist, joined the colours in March 1917, was attached t the 4th North Staffs and was sent to France in October of the same year. He saw considerable fighting and took part in the great offensive this spring and was seriously wounded. He had 21 wounds in addition to having one foot amputated. After a short stay in hospital in France he was bought home and subsequently died of wounds in Perth Hospital on May 13th. The funeral took place at Laneham on May 19th with full military honours, a detachment of Royal Engineers (Signal Section) coming from Retford formed the bearers and firing party. A cable wagon carried the coffin from the deceased’s home covered with the Union Jack and followed by near relatives and numerous friends. The scene was very impressive and was witnessed by a large crowd of people. The church was crowded for the service, and the hymn “O God our help in ages past” was sung. After the coffin was placed in the grave volleys were fired, and the “Last Post” sounded by a detachment of Boy Scouts from the Retford troupe. Numerous and beautiful wreaths were sent including one from the Matron and staff from the Medical Officers of Perth Hospital.