Born:
Died: 19 July 1918
Buried:
Address: 34 Barrett Street, Shipley
Parents:
Spouse:
Siblings:
Occupation: Driver, fish and fruit merchant
Organisations/clubs:
Military
Rank: Sgt
Medals/awards:
Rolls of Honour: St Paul’s. Shipley; Ploegsteert Memorial
Children:
Regiment: Durham Light Infantry
William Beecroft
It is said that the courageous manner in which Sgt William Beecroft, Durham Light Infantry, of
34 Barrett Street, Shipley, met his death in action on 19th July, was an inspiration to all the
troops who saw him fall.
In civilian life he was a driver for a fish and fruit merchant at Manningham Lane and joining up
on 28th June 1916, he went to the front in the following November.
He attended the Shipley Parish Church.
His wife has received two letters relating the circumstances of his death. In one, the lieut-colonel
describes the deceased as a very gallant soldier who was killed during an attack. He was
wounded in the body and then shot through the head.
“He was a most excellent and smart sergeant,” the letter runs, “and he died fighting bravely and
doing his level best.”
The officer in command of the deceased’s company wrote: “He was always one of the most
cheerful of the N.C.O.s. He was killed while leading his men in an attack upon the enemy’s
trenches and he fell facing the enemy – an inspiration to all who saw his coolness and courage.
“He gave his life for his friends and, in the eyes of God, no man can do more.”
Shipley Times & Express 9 August 1918
