ASTLEY, Sidney

Sidney Astley was the son of Arthur and Katherine Astley of 54 Occupation Street, Dudley, and he attended the Claughton school. He volunteered for the Ox and Bucks and served in the 5th (Service) Battalion which went to the Western Front in the 14th (Light) Division in May 1915. It fought in the Second Battle of Ypres at Hooge and Bellewaerde Ridge. In 1916 it was sent to the Somme after the opening phases and fought at Delville Wood. This was long struggle and before it had ended Private Sidney Astley had been killed in action. He was 21 years of age and is commemorated on the Thiepval, Dudley, St. James' church and Claughton school Memorials.