Pte 31040 William Henry Nelson

[Tim Bell]

Pte Nelson was a Trolley Boy for Manchester Corporation when he enlisted in 26th (Reserve) Bttn, at Heaton Park, on 7/10/1915, claiming to be 20y 4m. He was posted to 19th Bttn, when he joined the BEF on 16/3/1916 and arrived with 19th Bttn in the field on 27/3/1916. William returned home and was posted back to 26th Bttn on 21/6/1916, with a note William was underage.
William was discharged from 26th Bttn at Altcar Camp on 8/7/1916, having made a miss-statement as to age on enlistment. He was 16y 14d old and had joined the BEF aged 15. Born 8/7/1900.
William died from Pulmonary TB on 6/5/1917, aged 16.  His death was registered in Bucklow, which would be consistent with William dying at Baguley Sanatorium.  There is no evidence TB related to service.
Son of Harry & Mary Ann Nelson, 38 Eggington St, Rochdale Road. Roman Catholic (Poss Moston Burial). Pension Awarded. £5 War Gratuity.