Preece Family Tree

MILITARY FUNERAL FOR WAR VETERAN

Men of the South African Veteran's Association preceded the flag-draped coffin when Mr. William Baddeley, of Napier Street, Oldham, was buried at Chadderton Cemetery on Thursday. He was 85 years of age and a war veteran. Mr. Baddeley joined the Royal Horse Artillery over 65 years ago and was probably the oldest surviving member of the regiment.

He served in the Zulu War (1878-9) and in the first Boer War (1880-1). For some years he had lived with his son and he died in Oldham Municipal Hospital on Saturday.

A sergeant, a bugler and six men of the 1st Manchester Regiment stationed at Ashton Depot marched to the cemetery and the six soldiers were bearers.

The Rev. C. E. Binns, of Manchester Street Methodist Church, conducted the funeral service at the graveside and the Rev. J. Ford, of the Holiness Tabernacle, was also present.

A crowd followed the funeral procession and several ex-servicemen were among the friends present.

Included among the fourteen members of the South African Veterans' Association was Mr. E. Holden (chairman) and Mr. J. B. Wild (secretary). Ex-sergeant C. E. Miller was also present. The British Legion was represented by Mr. M. Lalley.

The mourners were: Mr. and Mrs. Davis, Mr. and Mrs. Howarth, Miss Howarth, Miss Marianne Howarth, Miss Mary Davis, Miss Nora Baddeley, Mr. A. Baddeley, Mr. W. Hartington, the Rev. C. E. Binns.

Among many beautiful floral tributes were wreaths from the South African Veterans Association (Oldham branch) and from the Oldham branch of the British Legion.

The funeral was directed by Messrs S. Pegler and Sons, Oldham.