William Kirby and Brenda McMahon have submitted the following:-
Thomas was born at Seaham Harbour in 1898. His parents were Robert and his mother London born Clara Smith (nee Fisher). They married in 1895.
Clara had illegitimate daughter, Cecilia Fisher, who was born on August 1st 1891.
Other Ayre siblings were Dora Freda, Robert, Mary, Elizabeth (Lizzie).
In 1901 the family was living at 48 Adolphus Street, Dawdon. Robert was working as a bricklayer’s labourer
1911 Life seems to be going along as usual except the family are now living at 34 Frances Street, Seaham Harbour. Most of the children are at school.
Thomas enlisted at Seaham Harbour. He served in several battalions with the Northumberland Fusiliers including 1st, 16th, 19th and 12/13th.
Thomas died of wounds October 8th 1918.
Monies due to Thomas were allocated to his father Robert. His mother later received a weekly pension of 10/0d at 10 Mariah Street Seaham Harbour.
Medals: British War Medal and Victory Medal
Thomas Ayre has yet to be identified on a local war Memorial
