William Jarvis Newton

Worksop Guardian 26 April 1918 “Another Worksop soldier to make the supreme sacrifice is Corpl. William Jarvis (Billy) Newton, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. W.J.Newton, 20, Central Avenue Worksop. The sad news was conveyed to his parents in a letter received on Wednesday from his Company Sergeant-Major D.P.Fraser, stating that the gallant young soldier, who was in his 21st year was killed in action on the morning of the 28th March, during German attack of severe bombardment of four hours duration, a number of the Platoon being killed with shell fire amongst them being young Newton. “I sincerely regret”, he added, the loss of this young man, as since he joined my company he has proved himself a good and capable soldier and good men are needed nowadays. I offer you my sincere sympathy in your great sorrow, but there is a great consolation when you know that Corpl. Newton came out here, and died doing his duty to King and country in the great cause for freedom, even to laying down his life. Corpl. Newton joined the Cameron Highlanders in September 1915, along with several other Worksop lads, and for a short time was in training at Invergarden, and later at Ripon, and other places being eventually drafted to France in September last. A native of the town, he was well known and highly respected, and was of a bright and cheery disposition. As a lad he attended the Abbey Boys School, and on leaving was employed by the G.C. ??? As a Booking Clerk and later at Shireoaks. He was also a chorister at Worksop Priory Church joining as a young boy 10 years of age, and remaining a member until he joined the Forces. When on leave he always took his place in the choir. His parents are well known and highly respected residents of the town, and much sympathy is expressed with them and the family in their bereavement”.

CWG additional information:- Son of William Jarvis Newton and Fanny Newton, of 46, Central Avenue, Worksop, Notts. Cemetery:- Arras Memorial. Research by Colin Dannatt