Peter Wise and Brenda McMahon have submitted the following:-
Robert (known by the nickname Kelly) was born at Barnard Castle in 1884.His parents were William and Elizabeth (nee Young). His father died in 1901 then his mother in 1916. His siblings included Mary, Thomas, Jane, Sarah, Elizabeth, John and Edward.
In 1901 William (father) worked as a labourer at the gas works but died that same year after the census.
Robert married Barbara Ann Harrison at Teesdale in 1902. The couple went on to have 5 children namely William September 16th 1903, Margaret October 15th 1904, Thomas February 1st 1911 died April 9th 1915, Elizabeth October 1st 1907 and Eva February 3rd 1914.
Robert was in the Barnard Castle Volunteers and although quickly discharged in 1902 when he enlisted, early embarkation to France on December 4th 1914 suggests he was a Reservist. He served with the 2nd Durham Light Infantry. His records show a very career in the four months from August 1914.
He was shot whilst working in his trench at the front. Robert’s commanding officer despatched his private belonging to his wife including a box of cigarettes, photo, Christmas card from Princess Mary, along with a button from his tunic and photos of his 5 children he carried with him.
Barbara married William Wilson, a labourer, April 5th 1916 and lived at Cappy's Yard, Bridgegate, Barnard Castle.
Robert Walker is remembered at Barnard Castle on B135.02, B135.23 and B135.25
He is also remembered in The DLI Book of Remembrance page 4
