Old Ledbury - World War One in Ledbury - A T BURSTON

World War One in Ledbury - A T BURSTON

World War One in Ledbury - Corporal A T BURSTON R.F.A.

Kington / Newent Reporter Newspaper 15 08 1914
LEDBURY COUNCIL SCHOOLS - MEETING OF MANAGERS.
A letter was read from Mr A H BURSTON, uncertificated assistant at the 'boys' school, stating that he would be unable to fulfil his duties as he had been called up to serve with the Royal Field Artillery.



Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 21 11 1914
LEDBURY WAR ITEMS
We are informed that Driver A. T. BURSTON of the R.F.A. (formerly uncertificated teacher at the Ledbury Boys School), who went to France with the British Expeditionary Force, has been injured. Mr BURSTON was in the retreat from Mons, and also took part in the Battles of Marne and Aisne. When the movement of British troops from the Aisne to North Belgium took place he had the misfortune to be jolted off a gun carriage, and to be run over. He sustained injuries to his left hand and chest, and was sent to Cardiff Hospital, where he now lies. At present he is progressing as well as can be expected.



Ledbury Guardian Newspaper 28 11 1914
LEDBURY MAN WITH THE GUNS
TEACHER'S EXPERIENCES AT THE FRONT
Driver A. T. BURSTON, of the Royal Field Artillery, formerly uncertificated teacher at the Ledbury Boys School, has returned from the front as the result of injuries received through being jolted off a gun carriage. After having spent a week or two in Cardiff Hospital, Driver BURSTON is now nearly recovered and this week he was able to visit Ledbury, where he has many friends.

In a chat with a " Guardian" representative, Driver BURSTON said the British Expeditionary Force was given a flattering reception by the people of Boulogne when they landed in August. It was not long before the British were in action and Driver BURSTON's battery was in the famous retreat at The Battle of Mons. Needless to say, they saw a great deal of fighting and took part in the battles of the Aisne, Marne and Dise. The German Artillery fire was very fierce, and the men of his battery were kept almost continually at their guns. The marching was done at night and consequently there were few opportunities for sleep.

Asked his opinion of the German Artillery fire, Driver BURSTON said their fire was fairly accurate but he did not think the German guns were superior to the British. Proceeding, Driver BURSTON said his battery was close to the famous L Battery of the Royal Horse Artillery which made such a gallant stand at the Battle of the Marne. Gunner C. J. BEVAN, of Newtown Ledbury, took part in that battle, he added.

Describing how he came to be injured, Driver BURSTON said it happened when the British troops were moved from the Aisne to North Belgium. He was about to get off a waggon in order that a comrade might ride, when the waggon jolted, and he was thrown under the wheels, one of which, passed over his chest and left hand. He was severely injured, and removed to England. Driver BURSTON will report himself at Woolwich next month fit for service again, and his friends in Ledbury will wish him a safe and speedy return.



Sources
1914 - 1919 Ledbury Guardian Newspaper - Herefordshire History

Ledbury Reporter

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