Mexborough and Swinton Times, September 15 1917
Gallant Officer’s End
Lt J Dickinson
We regret to have to announced that Lt J Dickinson, the only son of Mr George Dickinson of Westholme, Bolton on Dearne has been killed.
The news was received in a letter from Capt A Gardner, of the 45th Trench Mortar Battery who wrote as follows:
“Dear Mr Dickinson
I deeply regret to inform you that your son, second Lt John Dickinson, attached 45th Trench Mortar Battery, was killed last night. He was coming out of the trenches to rest, when a shell came and killed him and some of his men.
Death was instantaneous from the account of the men who escaped, death was probably due to shock, as the only mark on his body was a cut on his wrist. His body was taken back about half a mile and buried there, where a cross will shortly be erected.
Previous to this he had had a very hard time in the line, and had done splendid work. It is tragic to think that he was within a minute or so of safety and rest when he was killed.
I, the other officers and men of the battery, unite in sending you our deepest sympathy. We have lost a pal, but you have probably lost your all. Again assuring you of my heartfelt sympathy.
P.S.: later on, when I have time, I shall send you his belongings.”
Lt John Dickinson entered Sheffield University Officers Training Corps in July 1915 and trained at Trinity College Cambridge completed at Glencorse Edinburgh. He was granted a commission in the 13th Battalion Royal Scots in September 1917, and proceeded to France the same month. Later, on his own application, he was attached to the 45th Trench Mortar Battery in connection with his old regiment.
His first leave was in June of the present year. He was 23 years of age. This he was educated at Penistone Grammar School; was article to Messrs Potter and Sanford, architects and surveyors, Sheffield, remaining with that firm until he joined the Army.
From C.W.G.C.:
Second Lieutenant
DICKINSON, JOHN
Died 28/08/1917
Aged 23
3rd Bn.
Royal Scots
Adopted son of George Dickinson, of Westholme, Bolton-on-Dearne, Rotherham
Aeroplane Cemetery