Mexborough and Swinton Times, August 8, 1916

Private Charles Fred Howarth
(Machine-Gun Section, York and Lancs)

is missing. After many weeks of painful suspense, his mother, Mrs William Randerson, of School Street, Great Houghton, has received official intimation that he took part in the recent advance, and was reported missing after a particularly severe charge.

Many local lads took part in fighting close by, but have written home that they are safe and sound. Prior to receipt of the official news a comrade sent word home that he saw private Howarth run-up to the barbed wire entanglements and back again, and then fall down, but he was not able to see whether he was wounded or not, and so far it has not been possible to ascertain exactly what has befallen him.

It is believed that he had been taken prisoner, and in all probability he will be heard of before long.

Private Howarth was previously employed at the Houghton main colliery, and joined the Barnsley Battalion in October 1914.

From C.W.G.C.:

Service Number 14/157
Date of Death: 01/07/1916
Age:21
Regiment/Service: York and Lancaster Regiment 14th Bn.
Panel Reference: Pier and Face 14 A and 14 B.
Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
Additional Information:
Son of Mary Jane Randerson, of 6, School St., Great Houghton, Barnsley.