James Arrowsmith

James Arrowsmith who served as a Colour Sergeant with the 5th (Territorial) Battalion DLI.

James and his twin brother, George, were born 5th August 1876 in Stockton, sons of James and Mary Edith (nee Bulmer) his wife, of Barnard Castle. As a Territorial, James had been called to serve on the 4th August 1914, but was killed in a motor cycle accident at Hartlepool on the 11th August 1914. Capt Arrowsmith had just received his commission in the Northern Cyclists Battalion

In his private life Capt. James Arrowsmith was a chief bailiff of Stockton County Court. He also was an excellent marksman, having won awards locally.

The motorbike accident occurred in Hartlepool on the morning of 11th August 1914 as Capt. Arrowsmith was on his way to Seaton Carew, to visit a picket. A steam engine motor-rolley turned right in to a street and collided with Capt Arrowsmith's motorbike. The rear wheels of the heavily-laden rolley went over Capt Arrowsmith crushing him beneath the vehicle. He died not long afterwards from his severe injuries in hospital.

In the nave of All Saints, Eaglescliff is a brass plaque with crown, laurel leaves and the emblem of the Northern Cyclists Battalion. The inscription reads:

"Dedicated to Captain James Arrowsmith, licensed Lay Reader in the Diocese of Durham 1876-1914

- placed by friends and members of the congregation."

It was designed by F.Osborne Ltd, London.

His name also features on the granite memorial cross 1914-18 at the Eaglescliffe road junction. It was unveiled on September 25th 1920, the cost having been covered by public subscription.

"Arrowsmith, J. Capt. 6th D.L.I."

James was survived by his wife Eleanor Mary, his daughter Christine Mary and his sons George and James Michael.

This biography has been kindly provided by the family of James Arrowsmith.