World War 1
Search the known records to date of those lost from the wider Alnwick area in World War 1
Generally showing where they are commemorated, when they died and some basic facts about each person. There are gaps, however, so if you can fill in any missing details do please contact us.
Leonard Short
Forename(s):
Leonard
Surname:
Short
Initial(s):
L
Service Number:
27848
Rank:
Private
Regiment:
Northumberland Fusiliers, 12th (Service) Battalion
Died:
13/07/1916
Aged:
23
Buried:
London Cemetery & Extension, High Wood, Longueval
Service History:
Enlisted at Ashington, Northumberland. Sent to France & Flanders early 1916.
In July of that year the 12th (Service) Battalion took part in the First Battle of the Somme, moving into the area of Mametz Wood on 10 July.
On 12 July the battalion advanced, captured the wood, enemy prisoners & several artillery pieces. However German shelling (with high explosive, shrapnel & gas shells) was severe & continued for 3 days & nights. Casualties were substantial, eight officers & over 200 men were killed or wounded. Short was one of those casualties on 13 July.
(Source: 'Felton War Memorial: The Men behind the names'; Eleanor George [formerly Hall]; 2009; p. 13)
Background:
Born about 1893, at Felton, Northumberland, the eldest of four children of William Short (a General Labourer), by his wife Elizabeth Short (née Davidson).
Pre-enlistment occupation: Gardener (previously an Agricultural Labourer).
In 1911 Short was working for William Forsyth on his farm at Shothaugh, Thirston, but by the early days of the war he had begun working in the gardens at Acton, boarding at the 'Old Briton Inn' when his parents moved to Ashington.
He was a member of the local Rifle Club &, with some friends, formed a band which enlivened social gatherings in the village.
(Source: 'Felton War Memorial: The Men behind the names'; Eleanor George [formerly Hall]; 2009; p. 13)
Local Memorial:
Felton War Memorial incorporating Acton, Eshott, Swarland & Thirston