Robert was born in 1884 in Maryport, Cumbria, to Robert and Grace. Robert was employed as a tailors apprentice in 1901 and the family were living at 25 Crosby St, Netherhall . He married Eliza Wilson in July 1910, and by 1911 they were living at 25 Church Street, Amble, Northumberland, Robert had changed his trade and was then working as a collier’s labourer, they had two children during their marriage.
Although Robert’s service record no longer exists it can be confirmed he served with the 17th Lancers as recorded on his medal card.
Robert arrived in France on the 6th October with the 2nd Life Guards having been mobilised from the reserve. He was killed in action on the 31st October, on his death his widow was shown as a living at 351, Salters Rd., Gosforth, Newcastle-On-Tyne. Robert is remembered on the Menin Gate, panel 5, Ypres.
On the 30th/31st of October 1914 whilst defending Ypres from German attacks the 7th Cavalry Brigade part of the 3rd Cavalry Division comprising the 3 Household Cavalry regiments Royal Horse Guards, 1st and 2nd Lifeguards were heavily shelled.
Sources:
17th Lancers Regimental Magazine ‘The White Lancer’
2nd Life Guards War Diary
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