Rushden Soldier Drowned - Sad End of Rushden AB Thomas - A Local Footballer

We regret to report that official news has been received by Mr Alfred Thomas, of 14 Pemberton-street, Rushden, that his brother, Able Seaman William Thomas, was drowned as a result of a collision between two destroyers in the North Sea on December 21st, 1916, as recently reported.

The late Seaman Thomas was 22 years of age, had been in the Navy six years, and prior to joining worked for Messrs. John Cave and Sons Ltd, Rushden. When in Rushden he resided with his grandmother Mrs Daniel Wright, who formerly lived in Cromwell-road. He went through the Mission Hall Sunday School and was a member of the Sunday School Football Club. He was home about a moth ago and spent part of his fortnight with his brother in Rushden.

His parents, Mr and Mrs John George Thomas, formerly lived in Rushden and now reside in Wellingborough.

Four more brothers are in His Majesty's Forces, viz., Bandsman J Thomas, and Ptes Philip, Harry and Charles Thomas, all of the Northants Regt. Joseph went all through the Dardanelles campaign and is now in France. Harry and Philip have both been wounded and have not yet returned to the front.