Mexborough and Swinton Times July 21, 1917

Private Joseph Angus Nicholson
Coldstream Guards

5 Herbert St, Mexborough, has been killed in action.

His wife has received the following letter from his captain:

“It is my sad duty to have to inform you that your husband was killed on the evening of July 8. It will probably some consolation to you to know that he was killed instantaneously.

I can give you no details, as he has been away from my company ever since November, doing police duty. He was given this work in consideration of his length of service, and also because he was a man who is respected and trusted.

Please accept my deepest sympathy.”

Another letter has been received from the senior chaplain to the Guards Division as follows:

“I am afraid I am the bearer of very sad news about your husband. I hope that you will be given strength to bear it. He was killed instantaneously by a shell while on military police duty on the evening of July 8 and I bury him the next evening at the military Cemetery at —. I can understand how severe blow this must be, yet I hope that you may be able to realise that even in sorrow ‘all things work together for good to them that love God.’

Your husband battalion are erected a cross on his grave. May God comfort you now and always, because of the sacrifice you have made.”

Private Nicholson was a reservist, and was mobilised on the outbreak of war. He went to France in October 1914 and was wounded the following month. He returned to France in September 1915, and served continuously for 21 months. He was then given a month’s leave, and return three weeks ago. Yet 17 year service to his credit, and served in the South African campaign.

Previous to the war he was employed at the Manvers Main Coke ovens.

He leaves a widow and four children.

From C.W.G.C.:

Private
NICHOLSON, JOSEPH ANGUS
Service Number 3424
Died 08/07/1917
Aged 37
4th Bn.
Coldstream Guards

Husband of Matilda Nicholson, of 5, Herbert St., Mexborough, Yorks.

CANADA FARM CEMETERY