Morpeth Herald 21/01/1916 carries a brief obituary:
MORPETH SOLDIER KILLED IN FRANCE.
Mrs George Sproates, High Church Cottages, Morpeth, has received information of the death of her husband in France.
He was attached to the 3rd East Yorks. His captain sent her the following kindly letter:
Dear Madam.- It is with the very deepest regret that I write to inform you of the death of your husband, who was in my company. He was – and I think this may be some comfort to you – instantaneously killed, shot through the head, and could have suffered no pain.
I send a few letters and a notebook, which were all the articles in his possession. His pay-book has been handed over to the authorities and will be forwarded by them to you.
Your husband was buried in a cemetery here. I regret I am unable to tell you the name of the town at present, and a cross will be placed over his grave. The name of the cemetery is St Joseph’s.
Your husband died like a brave man doing his duty for his country. I hope that this may be some consolation to you, and in future years a matter of pride to the children whom he leaves behind him.
If at any time you should wish for any further information do not hesitate to write to me, and, if possible, I will try and let you know what you want to find out.>p> I must close, believe me, with the greatest sympathy both for yourself and your family, yours truly,
H.R. Saunders, Captain.
He is not remembered on any war memorial in Morpeth.
