BANKS, Albert W

Albert Banks was born in Stourbridge and was the youngest son of Oliver Banks, butcher, of Coventry Street. He volunteered early in 1915 and was sent to the Gloucestershire Regiment before being transferred to the 2nd Suffolks in the 3rd Division. This battalion had fought in the Battles of the Somme during 1916 and had been engaged at Bazentin Ridge, Delville Wood and the Ancre. In 1917 it was very closely involved in the battles of Arras. On 9th April the troops attacked in the First Battle of the Scarpe and made some striking gains. On the 3rd May they attacked again, but the German defences were stronger and casualties were heavy. They included Private Albert Banks who died on the 7th May. He is buried at Feuchy Chapel Cemetery, Wancourt, (1 E 14). He was 19 years of age and is commemorated on Stourbridge, St. John's church, St. Thomas's church, Methodist church and St. Joseph's RC school Memorials.