Private Harold Cheetham
306821 2/5th Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment)
Harold was born abt. 1893 at Blackwell, Derbyshire, son of William Henry Cheetham from Besthorpe, Notts and his wife Martha (nee Longden). Harold was one of five children, siblings were:- Henry (b. 1882 Yorkshire), Ruth (b. 1884 Yorkshire), Ethel (b. 1887 Tibshelf) and John (b. 1890 Blackwell). In 1901 the family was living at Hanstubbin, Selston but by 1911 had moved to Franklin Road, Jacksdale, possibly number 2 and set up a greengrocery business. Harold assisted in the family business and his sister Ruth worked from home as a self-employed dressmaker.
Harold is recorded on the ‘Absent Voters List 1918/19’ as absent from Franklin Road, Jacksdale. He served alongside Horace Cartledge, who was killed in action and is named on the Jacksdale War Memorial. Harold witnessed Horace’s death and wrote a letter to Horace’s parents giving details of the tragic event.
Harold was recipient of the British & Victory Medals. He was also issued with a Silver War Badge number B201004.
Harold’s parents are buried at St. Mary’s Church, Westwood, his father died in 1932, aged 73 place of residence given at Franklin Rd. His mother Martha died in 1951 residence given as Eastwood, aged 88.
