Rushden Soldier's Death - Private Ernest Knight - News from Officer

We regret to report that unofficial news has been received this week by Mrs Knight, of 6, Gordon-terrace, Higham-road, Rushden, that one her soldier sons, Pte Ernest Knight, - Queen's Royal West Surreys, has died in action. The news is contained in a letter from an officer as follows:- "Dear Mrs Knight - It is with great sorrow and personal regret that I write to inform you of the death of your son in action. I know no words of mine can comfort you in your great loss, but I want you to know that he died a noble death and that this was a personal loss to us all. The officers and men of the -- Queen's join with me in extending sympathy to you in your great loss."

The news came as a great surprise and shock to Mrs Knight, for she understood for some time past that her son Ernest was behind the lines with some ear trouble from which he had previously suffered for 20 years, and he had not written to say he had returned to the trenches.

Pte Ernest Knight was 36 years of age, and formerly worked at Mr Duncan's Shoe factory, Rushden. He joined the forces on April 11th, 1916, and went out to France seven months ago.

Two brothers of the deceased soldier, William M Knight, and Harvey Knight (Beds. Yeomanry) are serving in France and the remaining brother, who has been rejected, is training himself in the volunteers.

Rushden Soldier's Death - Private Ernest Knight - Official News

Mr and Mrs John Knight, of 6 Gordon Terrace, Higham Road, Rushden, received an official notice on Friday last regarding their son, Pte. Ernest Knight, 10712, Royal West Surrey Regiment, who had been officially reported missing since April 9th last. The Army Council, having received no further news concerning Pte. Knight, state that they are regretfully constrained to conclude that he is dead, and that he died on or since April 9th.

The sympathy of the King and Queen was extended to Mr. and Mrs. Knight in their sorrow.

The deceased soldier was 37 years of age. He formerly worked for Mr Duncan, boot manufacturer, Rushden. He joined the Colours on April 11th 1916, and went to France in the autumn of that year. The Red Cross Society have been making enquiries as to Pte. Knight, but have received no further information.

Mr. and Mrs Knight and family desire to return their sincere thanks to all kind friends for their expressions of sympathy in this time of anxiety and bereavement.