Born: c1893, Idle
Died: 25 May 1917, Arras
Buried: HAC Cemetery, Ecoust St Mein
Address: Bradford Road, Idle
Parents: Alfred and Annie Elizabeth
Spouse:
Siblings: Clarice, Lilian, Evelyn
Occupation: Weaver, Castle Mills
Organisations/clubs: Rugby player
Military
Rank: Bombadier
Medals/awards:
Rolls of Honour: Holy Trinity, Idle; Arras Memorial
Children:
Regiment: Royal Field Artillery
Frank Hardaker
A smart soldier in the person of Bombadier Frank Hardaker, only son of
Mr Alfred Hardaker of Bradford Road, Idle, the old rugby footballer, has
laid down his life for his country.
Bombadier Hardaker, who was 24 years of age, joined the forces on May
27th, 1915 and, by a strange coincidence, met his death on May 27th this
year.
Three of his comrades – Driver Luty, Gunner Pratt and Gunner Walton,
write: “We have lost one of our very best pals.
“Ever since we enlisted at Otley, we have been together and we deeply
feel the loss of him. He was one of the most respected amongst his
comrades.”
The chaplain to the battery says in a sympathetic communication to Mr
Hardaker: “I know you must feel his loss but try to think that he died that
you might live in safety and peace.
“It will be a comfort to you to know that he died doing a gallant action
and is laid to rest close to the guns he worked so well.”
Before enlisting, Bombadier Hardaker was employed at Castle Mills.
.
Photo courtesy Tracey Jenkinson
