From the Accrington Observer & Times of 26th November 1916

PTE. BEN DUCKWORTH - Comrade Sees Him Killed

Although no official news has yet been received, fears are entertained that Private Ben Duckworth, who, before joining the army resided with his wife and two young children at 4, Manor-street, Accrington, has been killed while gallantly fighting in France. An Accrington comrade in a letter home to relatives in Owen-street, states that he saw Duckworth fall as the result of being hit by a bursting shell, and that another soldier was killed and four wounded by the same shell.

Pte. Duckworth, who was in his 31st year, was well known in Accrington, especially in the neighbourhood of the market, where he was employed as a carter by Mr. T. Entwistle, wholesale fruit dealer. His mother resides at 33, Frederick-street, Accrington. A smartly built young fellow, he was one of the Derby recruits, and on being called up about six months ago joined the East Lancashire Regiment. He had served in France about two months. Pte. Duckworth attended St John's church, Accrington. Much sympathy is felt for the family. His mother, who has been a widow for eighteen years, has still three sons in the army, and her youngest son is expecting the call shortly.

Chloe Wells