Harrogate Herald - 7th March 1917

W H Breare letter

Now I can tell you more cheerful news. We have been anxious about soldier George Thompson, son of Mr George Thompson, of Victoria Hall. You will remember that he had a bad hurt in his leg. he has been in hospital a long time. We all feared that he might have to have his leg amputated. I saw his father yesterday and enquired as to his son's condition, and was delighted to hear that he is going on satisfactorily. Of late he was so much on the improve that he attempted perhaps a little more than he was able, and was compelled to go back to his couch. he is progressing now quite satisfactorily, and we need have no anxiety on his account. happily, he will not lose his leg. I have heard that he would never have the free use of it, but I understand from his father that in course of time the limb will regain its normal activity, it is hoped and believed, in about twelve months.

Harrogate Herald - 18th July 1917

W H Breare letter

The other day I was told that someone desired to see me in my office. I went down and found a smart young officer whose face was very familiar. It was Second Lieutenant A R Thompson, son of Mr George Thompson, of Victoria Hall, James Street. Reginald has been in an officers' training school since the 1st of January. I was sorry to hear from him that his brother, George Thompson, who had been eight months in bed, on his back, is only making very slow progress so far as the wound in his leg is concerned. The calf of his leg was carried away, and the surgeons are spending much skill and time in trying to save that limb. We hope they'll succeed, don't we? I think Lieutenant Reginald is hoping to become attached to the Flying Corps. It really is astonishing how these single young men all seem so keen on this service. From what I have heard, however, flying is very exhilarating, so much so that nothing in their minds can be compared to it. As for myself I prefer mother earth; but it shows bravery and spirit on the part of our boys when they yearn thus for a chance to fly.