Randal Bennion was born on 2nd April 1900, and baptised on the 25th April 1900, [1142], to George and Jane Ann Bennion. Father's profession was down as 'Auctioneer' and the family residence address was 12 North Parade, Whitley Bay.
The Evening Chronicle 01/07/1919 carries:
Bennion. - In loving memory of my dear son, Pte. Randel Bennion, aged 16. Killed in action July 1, 1916, youngest son of Mrs. J.A. Bennion, Whitley Bay. Ever remembered by his loving Mother.
Whitley Seaside Chronicle and Visitors' Gazette - Saturday 24/02/1917:
'PRIVATE RANDAL BENNION.
It is with great regret we learn that Mrs Bennion, of 268, Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, has heard from the War Office that her son, Private Randal Bennion, N.F. who was reported as missing in July last, was killed in action on July 1st. Randal was Mrs Bennion's youngest son - the two elder being now in the Navy- and being an exceptionally well grown lad, joined, when only fifteen years of age, the Tyneside Scottish, Northumberland Fusiliers, in October, 1915. The battalion went into training at Alnwick, then were moved to Ponteland, and thence to Darlington, leaving there for France in January, 1916.
Private Bennion, who was thus only 16 years of age, was a native of Whitley Bay, as are his two elder brothers, Mr and Mrs Bennion having taken up their residence in Whitley Bay no less than 28 years ago. Mr Bennion died some eight years ago, and now Mrs Bennion has the further loss of her youngest son to bear, though she will doubtless find some consolation in the sympathy of many friends.
Young Bennion was a Park School boy, and very well known to a large circle of youthful acquaintances, who will all greatly feel his loss.
His name is on the Roll of Honour at both the Church and Park Schools.'
Whitley Seaside Chronicle and Visitors' Gazette Memoriam Notice 18/07/1918:
'IN MEMORIAM.
BENNION.- In loving memory of Private Randal Bennion, N.F., killed in action, July 1st, 1916, aged 16 years, youngest son of J. A. Bennion When alone in my sorrow Bitter tears often flow, There stealeth sweet dreams Of a short time ago. Unknown to the world He stands by my side, and whispers, dear mother, Death cannot divide, Ever remembered by his mother.'
Acknowledgements: Angela Conroy
His Christian name has been spelled differently as Randle, Randal, Randall, Randel on several memorials and in the press.
Randal Bennion is remembered in Whitley Bay on W84.01, W84.02, W84.10 and in W84.01, on page 18
