My grandfather, Colin Colgrave, was injured by rifle fire at the battle at Mouquet Farm. He suffered a septic compound fracture of his right thigh and was taken to No.3 Canadian General Hospital at Boulogne but sadly died there from gas gangrene at 0515 on 26th September 1916. He was 24 years old and left a widow Mary (neé Willoughby) and 2 children Olga Mary and Colin, aged 5 and 3.

My mother never talked about her father but after her death we found his medals and other mementos including a rosary from Lourdes, many photographs and silk postcards, and his cigarette case still containing 6 cigarettes.

Through research and family history websites I have gathered much information and copies of documents regarding Colin.  His letters tell of loneliness and other relatives’ grief.  Sadly we have no-one to pass these treasures on to, so they will be given to the Yorkshire Regiment

Colin was born on 12 March 1892 and died 29th September 1916.  He was awarded the Victory Medal, The 1914-1915 Star and the British War Medal. He is buried at the Boulogne Eastern Cemetery. May he Rest In Peace.

Mal Beckly