Mexborough and Swinton Times April 27, 1918

Private George Kettlewell
(Northumberland Fusiliers)

Private Kettlewell, Cortworth View, Newhill, Wath upon-Dearne, died in a Canadian hospital France on April 15 of gas poisoning.

On April 11, the sister at the hospital wrote ,

“I think you have already had a telegram to tell you that your son, Pte. G. Kettlewell, is in our hospital and is very ill. He was gassed some days ago, and as you know, that is a serious thing. He has been thinking of you and of his  father and of all at home to-day, and he has asked me to write to you. He said I was to give you all his love and to tell you that he is getting on all right, and you most not worry.

I am giving you his message as he gave it, but I am more sorry than I can say to have to tell you that he is not getting on all right, but is in danger. He is having everything done for him that the doctors can think of, and there are nurses always with him, so you must take that much comfort. He is taking everything we give him, and he is so good and so patient.

This is a terrible time for the fathers and mothers of England, and the sisters think of you and suffer with you in your trouble.”

An F-15 the Reverend GB Naylor (hospital chaplain) wrote:

“I regret to inform you of the death of your son, died in this hospital today. His condition gave little hope of recovery from the first. However, you will be glad to know that he rode his affliction with great fortitude. He was a brave boy, and never complained.

In your great sorrow you have my sympathy and prayers. There is consolation of the Resurrection hope be granted to you.”

Private Kettlewell was 19 years of age, was formerly a clerk at the Wath Main colliery.