PERKS, Francis

Francis Perks came from Halesowen and volunteered for the Worcesters. He was sent to the 2nd Battalion which was involved in the Artois battles of Festubert and Loos. In 1916 they came to the Somme for the struggle around High Wood in July. In August they moved to Delville Wood, taking the front line in the attack of the 24th August which led to a considerable advance towards Flers. Finally, they were involved in the attacks on the Transloy Ridges. On November 1st the heavy rain frustrated the attack; on the 4th they tried a different angle of attack and failed again. On the 5th at 11 a.m., led on by the super-human efforts of Lt E.P. Bennett, who was awarded the Victoria Cross, the target was won. Private Francis Perks was killed in action on the 2nd November and is commemorated on the Thiepval and Halesowen Memorials.