Shields Gazette 23/10/1915

Shields Gazette 23/10/1915

9th Battalion History page 134 entry for Laidler

Frederick Charles Laidler was born on the 1st July 1893 at Harton village, South Shields the son of Frederick Charles and Margaret Simon Laidler.

They moved to West View, still in Harton in 1904.

He was educated at Westoe Secondary School from the 26th August 1907, leaving 16 months later to be a clerk, although intending to go to sea. Frederick Charles was employed as an apprentice draughtsman in the shipyards.

Frederick had enlisted in 'B' Company (Quayside Company) of the 9th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers in September 1914.

He was stationed at Bovington camp in October 1914 whilst training.

Fred Laidler died of his wounds on the 7th July 1916. He was 23 years old.

The Newcastle Journal reported his death 13/07/1916:

"News has been received by Mr and Mrs F. C. Laidler, of Harton village, South Shields, that their son, Sergeant F. C. Laidler. Northumberland Fusiliers (Machine Gun section) has been killed in action."

The photo shows the occupants of B4 tent at Bovington Camp in October 1914. Fred Laidler is in the back row on the left.

On the bottom front row, at the far right is Lieut A.H. Darling, a fellow Shieldsman.

In the War History of the 9th (Service) Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers Frederick Charles is listed as a sergeant.

Source: Newcastle Journal 13/07/1916

Frederick Charles Laidler is remembered at Harton on H104.03 and in the Battalion History page 134.

South Shields Grammar School
The CWGC entry for Corporal Laidler