Dedicated to the memory of all the men and women of the Bridgnorth area who died during the two World Wars.

W S Skelcher (1897 - 1917)

Walter Sampson Skelcher was born at Overley, Warwickshire in 1897 and was baptised at Arrow church on 17th October. He was the son of Charles Laverick Skelcher, a gamekeeper, and his wife, Annie.

The family moved to Badger, Shropshire, about 1900 and were still there in 1911. Charles continued to work as a gamekeeper, possibly on the Apley Estate (or, maybe, at Stableford or Patsull Hall). Walter was educated at Bridgnorth Grammar School.

Walter served with the 51st Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. Although his records show that he was killed in action on 18th October, 1917, he is buried at St. Julien Dressing Station Cemetery so it is possible that he may have died of wounds received on October 12th during the First Battle of Passchendaele.

Acting Bombadier Skelcher, 155179, was awarded the Victory and British medals.

This memorial has mostly been compiled from official sources. It would be good to be able to expand it with more personal material - memories, stories, photos, etc. If you have any suitable material or any corrections please contact Greg. For news of updates follow @BridgnorthHeros on Twitter.