Thomas Massey

Private Thomas Massey enlisted on 8th September 1914 at Newark, he gave his age as 18yrs and 10 months and his address as 8 New Street, he was a turner working for Ramsomes of Newark. His father George was his next of kin. He was posted to the 1/8th battalion Sherwood Foresters and landed in France on 2nd March 1915 , he was killed in action and is buried at Kemmel Chateau Military Cemetery, Heuvelland, Belgium.D.61

Article published 16th June 1915 in the Newark Advertiser :- Youngest son of George S. Massey, formerly of the Queen’s Head, Market Place, Newark and now of Leigh, Lancashire. Of quiet and even disposition, he had a full shock head of black curly hair. As a child he attended the Mount School and was a member of the parish choir for a long period. He displayed the family love for sport, especially cricket, in which his father had accomplished many notable deeds. Also played football with Mr W. Tidd Pratt’s team, later occasionally assisted Newark Reserve. Last season was with Averham and Kelham, with whom his father was also identified. After his school days entered the employment of Messrs. A. Ransome & Co. and was with them at the outbreak of hostilities. Enlisted in the 8th Sherwood Foresters in Sept. 1914 and after drill at various centres, notably Braintree, went to the front with them in February. Had his nineteenth birthday in October. Shot while on sentry duty.