Sheffield Daily Telegraph – Tuesday 04 October 1904

Wath Youth’s Fatal Gallantry.

Drowned While Rescuing A Lady.

Holiday makers and residents in Bournemouth and district have been thrilled by a conspicuous act of gallantry, which has resulted in the death of a young Yorkshireman, named William Waddington, a native of Wath-on-Dearne.

On Sunday morning a young lady named Ellis, residing at 1, Charteris Bowers, Branksome Park, was bathing in the sea near Branksome Chine. She got into difficulties, and shouted for help. Her screams attracted the attention of Waddington, who was cycling on the shore not far from the spot. He at once swam the lady’s assistance, and was bringing her ashore, when he suddenly released his hold and disappeared.

The occurrence was witnessed by Dr. Beaver, who went to the rescue and brought Miss Ellis safely the beach, but Waddington was not seen again.

The brave young fellow, who was an apprentice to a firm of ironmongers at Westbourne, was an expert swimmer, the supposition is that he was seized with cramp, or sudden illness. He was about 19 years age, and leaves a widowed mother. His relatives were immediately telegraphed for, and uncle arrived Bournemouth yesterday.

Dragging operations have been carried without success.