SHAKESPEARE, John

John Shakespeare was married to Blanch and lived at 20 Hill Street, Dudley. He volunteered for the Regular Army and joined the 3rd Battalion of the Worcesers. They had suffered many losses in the last six months, especially in March when they suffered heavily in the diversionary attack at Spanbroek Mill south of Ypres. Further German attacks brought them close to Ypres during April and May and the Worcesters in the 3rd Division were moved to defend the vital city and push the enemy off the Bellewaerde Ridge. A determined attack took place on the 15th June but only a short distance was gained. Among the 60 men who were killed was John Shakespeare . He was 32 years of age and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial and also on the Dudley and St. James' church, Dudley, Memorials,