On the memorial cross at Shildon S122.05 which was in All Saint’s Churchyard is the name of Joseph Leng aged 7 who was ‘drowned while visiting his father in France’.

The Auckland Chronicle 16/10/1919 reports:
Drowning tragedy in France.
Much sympathy is felt for Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Leng, of Crozier-terrace, New Shildon, whose only child, Joseph, aged 7, was accidentally drowned at Audricq, France, on 2 October. The little fellow had been playing, and unfortunately fell into the canal. Help was forthcoming, but the shock had been too much and death ensued shortly afterwards. Mrs. Leng went out to Audrecq a few months ago to join her husband, who has been doing clerical work in the Army there for some time and this tragic event has come as a great shock. Mr. and Mrs. Leng came home on Thursday night.

The Northern Echo 24/11/1998 tells the story.
He was the son of Sapper and Mrs. J. Leng of New Shildon, County Durham. He is listed as having drowned at Audruiq, France, whilst visiting his father on October 22nd 1919. It was a civilian ‘non world war death’ but he is buried at Les. Barraques Military Cemetery, Sangatty, France, Plot 19, Row A, Grave 9.

Joseph Leng is remembered at Shildon on S122.03.