HEATH, William

William Heath lived at 131 Spring Lane, Cradley, and before 1914 became a regular soldier with the 4th Worcesters. He was transferred to the 3rd Battalion which was part of the British Expeditionary Force and was engaged in the dramatic campaign of 1914 which prevented a quick German victory. Early in 1915 the Worcesters moved to St. Eloi near the contested Vimy Ridge. They marched into the city of Ypres in June to take part in the final contest of the second battle of Ypres. On the 16th they moved out along the Menin Road to attack the Germans in the village of Bellewaerde. The enemy defences, however, were too strong and their artillery was devastating. The troops retired after heavy losses including Private William Heath who was killed in action on this day. He was 23 years of age and is commemorated on the Menin Gate, Cradley and Halesowen Memorials. His brother, Alfred, was in the same battalion and died in November 1914.