Soldier – Whittaker, Thomas – Killed (picture)

January 1917

Mexborough and Swinton Times January 27, 1917

Private Thomas Whittaker
(York & Lancs)

Mr and Mrs Whittaker, Glassworks Lane, Denaby Main, were notified on Friday that their son private Thomas Whitaker (York and Lance) has been killed on January 7.

Private J R Cooper, Conisborough, was killed at the same time under similar conditions, and both soldiers were buried in the same place and at the same time.

The chaplain writes: “Your son died a hero’s death, doing his duty as a brave soldier, and you will always find some consolation in remembering that.”

Private Whittaker was 36 years of age, and enlisted 16 months ago. He previously worked at Messrs Kilner brothers works for 21 years.

He was well known in local football circles and played a good many years for Conisborough St Peter’s.

He went out to France with the Denaby territorials, and was wounded at Hooge. Some months later he was discharged, having contracted a trench disease.

Private T Whittaker had been on active service 11 months when he was killed.

From C.W.G.C.:

Rank: Private
Service No: 23212
Date of Death: 07/01/1917
Regiment/Service: York and Lancaster Regiment 9th Bn.

Grave Reference: VII. D. 5.
Cemetery:  RAILWAY DUGOUTS BURIAL GROUND (TRANSPORT FARM)
Additional Information:
Son of Mrs. Jane Whittaker, of 65, Clifton St., Denaby Main, Rotherham.