Sudden Death of an Ex-soldier – A War Victim

It is with much regret that we record the death, which took place under very sad circumstances on Wednesday evening, of Mr. Arthur George Clifton, aged 24, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Clifton, of 43 Victoria-road, Rushden.

Mr. Clifton had started out from home about 5p.m. to see his fiancée and, when reaching the lower part of Victoria-road, he was seized with a fit of coughing. Mrs. Webb, of 11, Victoria-road, with assistance, got Mr. Clifton into her house, as he was seen to cough up some blood. Dr Baker was sent for with all speed, and meantime Mrs. Webb (an Ambulance nurse) did everything possible for the sufferer, but he passed away before the doctor could arrive. Dr. Baker certified that an inquest was not necessary as the deceased died as a result of haemorrhage. He had been a sufferer from pulmonary tuberculosis contracted on war service.

Mr. Clifton joined the Bedfords in January 1916, and in July of the same year was dangerously wounded at Fricourt on the Somme, a bullet entering his body and another missile shattering his left hand. He was invalided home, given several months’ training at Clark’s College, London, and, about three years ago, was appointed on the staff of the Victoria Leather Company, Higham Ferrers. For a considerable period up to the time of his death he was secretary to the company. He was held in the highest esteem both in business and religious circles. He was a teacher in St. Peter’s (Rushden) Sunday school and had been a sidesman of St. Peter’s. Much sympathy is felt with the bereaved relatives and friends.