Brenda McMahon has submitted the following :-
Ernest was born to parents John (Jack) and Mary Jane (nee Culley) c1896 at Coundon Grange, Co Durham. He came from a very large family which included his full blood siblings, his step brothers and even grandchildren. The family lived at 11 William Street Coundon Grange (1901 census) in only 4 rooms. They included Alfred, George, Joshua, Albert, Fred, Arthur, Emily, Ethel and Emily. His step brothers to his mother’s previous husband were James Shaw, Thomas, Henry, Joseph and George.
Several family members including Ernest, his father and some brothers were all working in the pit. His father was a coal hewer. Their religion was Church of England.
Ernest enlisted at Bishop Auckland 10th October 1915 but stayed posted at home until the 9th January 1917. He had previously been examined 24th August 1916 and was declared fit after being checked by a Special Medical Board. They confirmed he was Category A and fit for service overseas so joined his unit (R.A.M.C.) the following day.
On the 9th January 1917 he embarked on H.M.T. Shropshire at Devonport, disembarking at Salonika on the 30th January. He joined for duty 9th February.
Only 3 months after arriving to serve he received a gunshot wound to the left leg. He was admitted to hospital on the 12th May but medics then reported he had also received injuries to his face and hands.
He was put on to an ambulance train to be treated at the 28 Salonika General Hospital. He later died of his wounds on the 26th May 1917 aged 20 years.
His personal property was returned to his father. They included a cloth bag, 2 note books, scissors, strop, strap, wallet, photos, cards, aid to sick and injured, letters, testament, wallet, purse, 2 rings, watch, belt, disc and 3 keys.
Ernest is buried at Salonika (Lembet Road) Cemetery.
He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
Ernest Clark is remembered at Auckland Park on A42.01 and at Bishop Auckland on B140.12 and B140.03
