William Nicholson

Pte William Nicholson Retford Times 13 August 1915 Much sympathy is shown to M and Mrs George Nicholson and family, Walkeringham, in the death of Pte William Nicholson, who died in hospital on Aug 2nd from wounds received in the trenches. Pte Nicholson, who was at home less than a month since, joined the Sherwood Foresters, and was only 18 last March. The church was overcrowded on Sunday evening, when the Rev Clarence May, commanding officer of the St Anne’s Cadet Corps, preached an eloquent sermon. At its conclusion an “In Memoriam” service was conducted in honour of Pte Nicholson. The ‘Dead March’ in ‘Saul’ accompanied by the drums of the Cadet Corps, was played and the ‘Last Post’ was sounded. It was altogether an impressive ceremony. The following intimations were received on Friday, No. 7 Casualty Clearing Station, British Expeditionary Force, Aug 3rd 1915. “Dear Mrs Nicholson, I am very grieved to tell you of the death of Pte Nicholson 19529. He passed away very peacefully at 4 pm, yesterday afternoon Aug 2nd. He had only been in our hospital about four hours, but I’m afraid the bullet must have touched very near his heart: so although everything possible was done for him, it would have been impossible to save him. You have all our deepest sympathy, Yours sincerely, H M Daly, sister.” “No. 7 Casualty Clearing Station, British Expeditionary Force, Aug 3rd 1915. Dear Mrs Nicholson, Sister Daly has written, I believe, to acquaint you with the death of your son, which took place here, yesterday. He was bought down with a wound in the chest, and although everything possible was done for him, he never rallied but died the same day. He was laid to rest this morning in the quiet cemetery here, side by side with many, who like him, have lost their lives out here in this dreadful war. A cross marks his grave bearing a plate on which are inscribed his name, regiment and date fo death. I can only pray that God will comfort you all, and help you to bear your sorrow, I am, Yours Sincerely F E Brown C F (Wesleyan).”

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