Harrogate Herald – 17th October 1917

W H Breare letter

When I sent some playing cards to Private W Parkinson, of the 2-5th, who was in hospital at Keighley wounded, I hardly expected to see him very soon, but I am glad to say that he looked in on me on Monday morning, having been discharged, otherwise granted sick leave, at the conclusion of which he will report to his depot. Parkinson was wounded on the 3rd of may - a memorable day for the boys of the 2-5th - in the left leg and foot. He lay out two days and found himself in hospital May 5th, where he has been until last Thursday. He is the son of Mrs John Parkinson, 13 Pearl Street, Starbeck. A bullet went through his helmet and, as he puts it, he was then "within two inches of death". Private Samuel Abbott, of Oatlands, was missing at the same time and Sergeant Wharton taken prisoner. There was talk of amputating the leg, but happily that has not been necessary, though it is still troublesome. He does not look as if you will see him out where you are very soon, if at all. You may be sure, boys, that there is someone in Harrogate pleased to see Parkinson home and that is his mother, who has borne his illness so long and patiently. he is her only son and child. Just those two! May good fortune attend them both henceforth.