Derbyshire Times - War Heroes

[Old Cruser]

There is an article in the DT this week (unfortunately I can't find it on line for a link ).

'Taking a look at our region's War Heroes'

As it's the 100th anniversary this year of the 1st WW there is going to be a focus on our regions war heroes of this time.
As my late grandfather was awarded the DCM at the age of 18yrs I am currently responding to the DT with newspaper cuttings and a photo.

I just think it's a brilliant idea and tribute to all who fought so bravely back then.

Anyone else who has information they would like to share, should get in touch with  :

Jon Cooper 01246 504578

email comment@derbyshiretimes.co.uk.

Or alternatively write to the DT

[poppy]

"As my late grandfather was awarded the DCM at the age of 18 years"

Wow OC, A DCM was a really big deal at that time. DCM's were coveted by the guys as they came with a gratuity (probably about ten bob). There would also have been a citation which would describe the action for which he received his medal. if you would like me to look it up for you just PM me his details and I would be delighted to do so.

[Old Cruser]

Hi Poppy I have news paper cuttings, also a private letter from a historian with a more vivid account.
I can share them with you if you want as I know you are interested in history, or I can post them on here.

His brother (who was I think 3 years older) however was in the 1st Battalion Gloucestershire along with him perished when the trench collapsed.
 Despite efforts to dig the men buried with bare hands by others they sadly persished.
I can only imaging what it must have been like for my grandfather witnessing that happening to his brother 

We have no details at all about this incident and I am wondering if that is something you would be able to trace?
His name was Walter Ralph Westbury.
 

[poppy]

I would love to see the info you have OC. You can PM me or post on here, whichever you prefer. I will find out what I can about Walter. All I know at the moment is that he is on the war memorials at Tupton and I think in North Wingfield church.

[Old Cruser]

Thank you so much Poppy, I have my elderly aunt staying here and she is also very interested in her family history, she has actually provided me with all the info I currently have.

I will see which is the quickest way to send it you as I have to put all photo's on photo bucket before posting.

It will be probably tomorrow if I don't get chance later. 

[Pete]

Sounds fascinating OC.

[poppy]

That would be great OC. I have found Walter in the Derbyshire Times. The photo is very grainy and it doesnt really say much, it does mention that he was a postman under Mr Taylor at Old Tupton Post Office.
I also found the citation for your Grandad's DCM which you probably have. I must admit it brought a tear to my eye. He was what was known as "a runner". Exceptionally brave boys in my humble opinion.
Once I know what details you have I can send you anything I find which may be of interest to you.

[Old Cruser]

Thank you Poppy, my aunt is so excited that you have found a photo of Walter (he was her fathers brother).

She tells me of a rhyme about my grandfather and his DCM which was still being said by the children in Tupton school years later when she herself was there. she herself is now 86yrs.

At the moment she's toddled off into her room but I will post that along with the information tomorrow as I am running out of time.

[Fly]

We came into possession of Our_Lass's Great uncle's, brothers, 1st world war medals, and dead man's penny 
All the papers from the King and Gov etc were also present.
We passed them on to Our_Lass's brother. The only remaining male with the same family surname.

Can't wait to see the outcome from this thread

[Old Cruser]

Fly I Have uploaded the newspaper cuttings/historians account to photo bucket before going out last night but could hardly read it - maybe it's because it's in one file.
I will try again later today with a different way but if I can't get them to be legible on here I may need yours or Pete's help 

[Fly]

I'm sure one of us will be able to help out OC, just give us a shout 

[Old Cruser]

Thanks Fly.
I think I will have to take them out of the file seperately into documents and try that way as I can't enlarge them in photo bucket

See what I mean - not legible is it

[Old Cruser]

The little rhyme passed down over many years

Lance Corpral Elesmere Westbury
The DCM has won
The people of New Tupton
Are very proud of their distinguished son

He was presented with a Gold Hunter Watch by the village people.

[poppy]

The people of the village were obviously very proud of Elesmere. A purse of gold and a hunter watch. Regarding Walter - we are going to France later in the year and can stop off at Loos memorial and take a photo of his name on the memorial if you like.

[Old Cruser]

Thank you Poppy that is so thoughtful and kind of you. 

Pete has the information to share about it.
I emailed it today as I was struggling as you wil have read.
I'm sure he will do his best to post it when he gets time.