HEATH, Charles


No.27722, Private, Charles HEATH
Aged 43


2nd Battalion, Essex Regiment
Killed in Action on Thursday, 18th April 1918


Charles Heath was born Weston Colville (Linton Q3-1875 3B:528), son of John and Eliza HEATH (née COLLINS).

1881 census...Aged 5, he was at Weston Green, Weston Colville with his father John HEATH [32] farm labourer; his mother Eliza [28]; sister Ellen [9]; brothers William [7], Cornelius [4] and James [2]. All were born in Weston Colville.

1891 census...Aged 15, a farm labourer, he was at The Green, Weston Colville with his parents, brothers William, Cornelius and James (all farm labourers) and John [6 months}; sisters Elizabeth [10], Ethel [8], Agnes [6] and Lily [3]. All the new siblings were born in Weston Colville.

1901 census...Aged 26, farm labourer, he was at still at The Green with his parents, brothers William and James (farm labourers), John and Frank [6] born Weston Colville; sister Lily.

1911 census...Aged 34, single, a farm labourer, he was still at Weston Colville with his parents (father now a shepherd); brothers William (farm labourer), James (shepherd), John and Frank (both farm labourers). All 11 siblings survive.


He enlisted in Newmarket in April 1916.
The 2nd Essex on 18th April 1918, according to the war diary, were in the support area near BELLERIVE. Hostile attack. Barrage commenced at 1:00 am. Actual attack materialised at 3 am. Not heavy losses. 1st Bn Kings Own Regt attacked the village of RIEZ-du-VINAGE at 9 pm and the battalion relieved them on the east side of village. Casualties..Capt L.M.WINN wounded.

CWGC records have 12 men of the battalion killed on 18thApril 1918



photo: Rodney Gibson




photo:Rodney Gibson



Charles Heath is buried in Chocques Military Cemetery, grave 3:D:5

click here to go to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website for full cemetery/memorial details


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