GUNNER 465 WILLIAM ARTHUR NUNNS, 11(H) BATTERY 4th WEST RIDING BRIGADE RFA(T)


GUNNER 465 WILLIAM ARTHUR NUNNS, 11(H) BATTERY 4th WEST RIDING BRIGADE, ROYAL HORSE ARTILLERY.DIED FROM ILLNESS, 17Th SEPTEMBER 1915, AGED 22 YEARS.




Before the war William Nunns lived with his family at 13 East Parade, Ilkley. The 22 year old worked as a joiner/carpenter for H M Pease and Co. who had premises in Cunliffe Road and was also a member of the Territorial Army. The 4th (West Riding) Howitzer Battery Royal Field Artillery recruited from across the district and had bases in Otley, Burley-in-Wharfedale as well as at the Drill Hall on Leeds Road. Corporal Arthur Nunns along with the rest of the battery was mobilised for war at the beginning of August 1914. Territorial soldiers could opt not to serve overseas, but in reality few would do so. Arthur was one of those who chose to fight abroad. The 4th Battery reached the Western Front on 14th April 1915 and was stationed in the Ypres area. In mid-August that year Arthur suddenly became very ill. Initially thought to be suffering from hepatitis he was removed to the base hospital at Boulogne. Closer examination revealed a diagnosis of nephritis, inflammation of the kidneys. Arthur's condition began to deteriorate and his parents were sent a telegram advising them that their son was now dangerously ill. His mother, Elizabeth, decided to travel to France to be with her son. Arthur was now in great pain, bleeding from his gums and vomiting and at 6.15pm on 17th September he passed away. Arthur Nunns is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery and is remembered on Ilkley War Memorial

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