Friday 1 May 2015

Westwell, Albert - Corporal (M2/150786)

(No soldier photo available)
Army Service Corps
Died: 26th January 1917
Age 29

St. Johns, Stonefold

Newspaper Report:

On Tuesday afternoon, at St. John's Church, Stonefold, the funeral, which was of a military character, took place of Corporal Albert Westwell, whose home was at 658, Rising Bridge, Baxenden.  He died on January 26th, in his 29th year.  He enlisted twelve months ago last October, and was in the motor transport department of the Army Service Corps. He was billeted in London.  At the recent explosion in London he was called out in order to convey a rescue party.  He went without coat; received a chill which resulted in pneumonia, and died.  He was second son of Mr. Wilkinson Westwell, an overlooker at Industrial Mill, and was himself at one time chauffer for Dr. J. Peterson.  The Rev. B.S. Ainley vicar of Stonefold, officiated at the funeral.  There were present, in addition to the mourners: The Mayor of Haslingden (Councillor Russell); bearers from the two military hospitals; a few men from each hospital, and also a few soldiers on furlough.  The Haslingden Patriotic Fund Committee sent a wreath, in accordance with the usual custom at a funeral at Haslingden of any soldier belonging to the town.  The funeral was witnessed by quite a large number of people.

Newspaper Memorials:

In loving remembrance of Corporal Albert Westwell, M.T., who died serving his King and country, January 26th 1917.

"Far beyond this world of changes,
Far beyond this world of care,
We shall find our missing loved one
In our Father's mansion there.

Time may heal the broken hearts,
Time may make the wound less sore;
But time can never heal the longing,
For the loved one gone before.

From his loving Father and Mother and Brothers, 658 Rising Bridge; Harry (in France), and Jim (in Mesopotamia)

"The face we loved is now laid low,
His fond true heart is still;
The hand we clasped when we said good-bye,
Lies low in Death's cold chill.

His pleasant face and kindly ways,
Are pleasant to recall,
He had a loving word for all,
And died beloved by all.

From Mr. and Mrs. James Ratcliffe, 658 Rising Bridge.