Harrogate Herald - 27th January 1915

Private Bentley, B Squadron, 6692, 2nd Dragoon Guards, 1st Cavalry Brigade, British Expeditionary Force, writes :

Sear Sir, Please excuse me for not writing to thank you for your kindness. I have received at least six papers from you, and I enjoy reading them very much, especially your letter to us. It is rather strange that I have not seen anything of any Harrogate chaps, as there are several out here whom I knew in civil life. We are having a quiet time at present, but ever ready to move, as we always seem to be called for when we least expect it. I would very much like to give you some of my experiences, but cannot do so, as all letters are examined; that is why letter writing is rather difficult. I was very sorry to read of Mr Hammond's death some time ago; he was a splendid man. It would have been nice to have heard the bells of St Mary's on New Year's Eve, but still I hope to be able to hear them next year. I must close now as it is stable time.

Yours sincerely, Private Bentley

Harrogate Herald - 2nd January 1918

W H Breare letter

I asked last week for the names of soldiers at present alive who were at Mons. The first one I received was Private Percy Bentley, 6692, Headquarters, 2nd Dragoon Guards, BEF, France. He is the son of Mr and Mrs Bentley, 56 Otley Road. [Charles Bentley] Now, boys, I want to get the name of every living district soldier who was at Mons, so if you get a chance then let me know of any? I have also received the name of Private Richard Baxter, son of Mr and Mrs Baxter, of Knox, Bilton. He was the first Harrogate winner of the Military Medal.