WORRALL, Charles

Charles Worrall was a pre-war regular soldier. He possibly served in the Boer War and was called up as a reservist in August 1914. He joined the 3rd Battalion, which crossed to France on the 12th August, to take part in the battle of Mons and the subsequent retreat. The battle of the Marne in early September frustrated the German advance and the Worcesters were able to move back as far as the Aisne. After this success they moved north to stop the next German attack in Flanders. After the Battle of La Bassée they moved on to Ploegsteert Wood for yet another defensive battle on the 7th November. This was the last German attack of the Autumn and one which they hoped would drive the British back on the Channel. The Worcesters fought with great courage and helped to halt the German advance. However, casualties were high. Private Charles Worrall was among those killed in action and he is commemorated on the Menin Gate, Stourbridge, St. Thomas's church and Methodist church Memorials..