Pte J Desborough The Argus Newspaper

Died 31st July 1917

Aged 40 years

Commemorated on Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial
Panel 39

Irchester Hero’s Death - Private James Desborough Killed in Action

Pte James Desborough, of Fairholme, Irchester, has been officially reported as killed in action on July 31st. Pte Desborough joined the Forces last March, and was then attached to the --- Norfolks, but was at the time of his death attached to the --- Essex Regt.

Lieut Drake has written expressing sympathy with Mrs Desborough in her great loss, and saying that her husband was shot by a sniper, and that his grave has been notified by his battalion, and is being attended to by his comrades.

Deceased, who was much respected in the district, was the youngest son of Mr Ekin Desborough, of Wymington, but since his marriage 19 years ago, he has resided at Irchester. He was connected with the Wesleyan Church, and on Sunday last the Rev J P Hodgson made feeling and appropriate remarks concerning him, and a special hymn was sung.

Pte Desborough was 40 years of age and was employed by the Wholesale and Export Shoe Co Ltd Irchester. He leaves a widow to mourn his loss.

Irchester Soldiers’ Death

Pte. James Desborough, of Fairholme, Irchester, has been officially reported as killed in action on July 31st. A friend, writing to deceased’s relatives, says: “He went right to the front line without any fear, and whilst holding a trench he gave a wounded chap a drink of water, when a sniper got him through the neck. He was instantly killed, and was buried in the same place.” At the time of his death he was attached to the Essex Regiment.