Born: c1875, Bradford

Died: 2 March 1916

Buried:

Address: Dale Street, Shipley

Parents:

Spouse: Yes

Siblings:

Occupation: worked for Charlestown Combing Co

Organisations/clubs: Shipley Victoria RFC

Military

Rank: Drummer Sgt

Medals/awards:

Rolls of Honour: St Paul’s, Shipley

Children: Two

Regiment: West Riding

Charles Henry Haigh

The many friends of Sgt-Drummer Charles Henry Haigh of the Duke of Wellington’s Regt., will regret to hear that he has been killed in action. Sgt Haigh was 42 years of age and his home was at 21 Dale Street, Shipley. Sgt-Major J Coxon, writing to the deceased’s widow, says: ‘It is with regret that I have to announce to you the death of your husband, who was killed by shell fire. Side by side ‘We fought side by side all through the South African war and during the present campaign we have been closely in touch with each other. ‘I can assure you that we shall feel his loss as he was thought a great deal about all through the Battalion. I and my brother sergeants of the Battalion all join in expressing our deepest sympathy with you in your

sad bereavement.’ An officer of the deceased’s regiment, Captain S Danby, writes: ‘He died the death of a brave and honourable man fighting for his country. I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of such a man who after long and valuable service, volunteered and gave his life for his country in its hour of need. ‘He was known and beloved by all ranks and his sad death has caused everyone to feel that they have lost a real comrade and a man they could ill spare. ‘The Commanding Officer wishes me to express his deep and heartfelt sympathy to you. I wish to

do likewise and to say that from my own knowledge he has shown time after time what a brave and gallant man he was. The whole Battalion joins me in its expression of deep regret.’ A brother in law of the deceased, Pte Walter Bancroft of Idle, saw Sgt Haigh killed and had a narrow escape himself, he being buried with the same shell that killed Haigh. Challenge Cup The late soldier had served sixteen years in the army and rejoined the colours in September 1914. As previously stated he served in the

South African campaign and was the proud possessor of a medal awarded for distinguished service. In December 1903-4 he was vice- captain of the Shipley Victoria Football Club when they won the Bradford and District Competition and also the challenge cup. During that season, when Mr T Lund was president of the club, he scored 73 points. He had a good turn of speed and could play in any back position. Prior to the war he was employed by the Charlestown Combing Co. A widow and two children mourn his loss. A memorial service is to be held on Sunday evening at the Shipley Parish Church. The Rev W Bowker, senior curate, will officiate. Report in the Shipley Times & Express 17 March 1916