Thomas Mallender

Pte Thos. Mallender Retford Times 17 Nov 1916 The above is a portrait of Pte “Tom” Mallender, eldest son of Mr Walter Mallender and Mrs Mallender of Carr Hill, Everton, who was officially reported killed in action, “somewhere in France” on Sept 18th 1916. Deceased, who was 22 years of age, was engaged previous to the war at the Great Northern Railway, Doncaster and before that, at Scrooby. The keenest regret is felt at the picturesque little hamlet of Carr Hill, where the brave lad spent his happy childhood and where he was greatly loved for his sunny genial disposition, and his quiet loveable nature. He had no ambition whatever for military glory but felt it to be his duty to come forward at the time of his country’s great need; he therefore enlisted in the West Riding Regiment and very quickly became a smart and efficient soldier. The official report of his death has been corroborated by a comrade, Pte Maw of Wadworth who was fighting by his side and saw him fall fighting gallantly to the last. Some time ago his parents received by post from France an article which their son always carried about with him ready addressed to his home. No explanation accompanied the package and they felt keen anxiety concerning the incident. Several weeks later they were happily relieved to learn the article had been lost on the field of Battle and afterwards picked up and despatched by some friendly hand. Then a little later came an ominous official communication of their son’s death of which this time there could be no doubt, A memorial service was held in the Parish Church and the deepest sympathy is felt in the parish and by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. The toll of the brave is very heavy, but the memory of this gallant lad will long be cherished in this his native place.

FreeBMD has no record of his birth so Mallender may have been 23 when killed.