Richard Holmes

On the 11 Dec 1915 he was attested and the following day, placed on the army reserve of the Sherwood Foresters.. He was mobilised and on the 2nd Dec 1916 left Folkston for France as a member of the Leicestershire Regiment. His casualty form shows he died from wounds received in action from GSW's having his right . arm and leg amputated. Worksop Guardian 11 May 1917. The comparatively small village of Blyth has lost a large proportion of men and another name to its roll of honour is that of Pte Richard Holmes of the Sherwood Foresters, who has died from wounds received in action in France. His injuries were reported to be of a very serious character, one of his legs being blown off. Pte Holmes was 38 years of age, and previous to enlistment was employed on the farm by Major Willey. He joined up last autumn. He was a decent living and good working man, and the sympathy of all Blyth is extended to his widow and children. Pte Richard Holmes Retford Times 18th May 1917 We regret to announce that Pte Richard Holmes of Blyth, second son of Mr George Holmes of South Leverton, died on May 7th from wounds received in action in France. He joined the Leicester Regiment in June 1916 and went to the front in December. His wife heard from the chaplain and one of the nurses that he had been severely wounded in his legs and arm and this news was quickly followed by the announcement of his death. He was buried with military honours on May 9th, his coffin wrapped in the Union Jack and the “Last Post” sounded over his grave.

Cemetery:- Abbeville Commune Cemetery Extension. CWG casualty information:- son of George and Elizabeth Holmes of S. Leverton; husband of E Holmes, of Blyth, Notts. Research by Colin Dannatt