William (Willie) Ainley

Private 241832. Duke of Wellington's West Riding Regiment.

Born: 1893.

Son of Clarence and Helena.

Address: 36 Third Ave, Myrtle Road, Golcar.

Occupation: Weaver at Titus Calverly & Sons, Milnsbridge.

Enlisted: March 1916.

Embarked for France on 10th January 1917.

Killed in action: 27th November 1917. Aged 24.

Commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial to the Missing.

Willie was killed by a shell in the Battle of Cambrai. His parents received a letter from Lance Corporal J. Armitage on behalf of the Company saying "It is with sincere regret I have to inform you of the death of your son, who was killed instantly by a shell on 27th November, during a very hot engagement. All the section to which he belonged join me in expressing to you our heartfelt sympathy, for we have lost a true pal and we shall never be able to replace him."

They also received letters from his chums.

He attended Golcar Church and Golcar Central Liberal Club and is on the Roll of Honour in St. John's Church Golcar and Huddersfield Drill Hall.