Roll of Honour

Private Arthur Bannister

Private Bannister
Linked to: Bicester
Bicester

Service Number: 8807

Regiment: Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry (2nd)

Conflict: World War One

Date of Death: 16th May 1915

Age at Death: 33

Burial/Memorial Location: Le Touret Memorial, Pas de Calais, France

Address: 82 Chapel Street, Bicester

Son of Joseph & Sarah Ann Bannister, of 5 Banbury Road, Bicester.

"Private Arthur Bannister, of the Oxon and Bucks Light Infantry, also met his end at the same time. For several days past Mrs Joseph Bannister (the deceased private’s mother), who resides in Crockwell, has been anxiously awaiting news of her son, nothing having been heard of him for some time. The sad tidings were received early this week. Pte. Bannister, who had finished his time as a special reservist of the Oxon and Bucks Light Infantry, volunteered for service in the early stages of the war, and at once joined his regiment, being quickly ordered to the scene of the action. He was 33 years of age, but was unmarried. He served twelve years with his regiment in the regular army, being called for service in the South African War; he was not sent out, however. Always of a jovial disposition, he often livened up his “mates” in the trenches by tunes on the mouth-organ." Bicester Advertiser 11/06/1915

"A communication received from the War Office on Monday, in answer to an inquiry, revealed the news that Pte. Arthur Bannister (O. & B.L.I.), of Bicester, had been killed in action on May 16th. The place where this occurred is stated to be Richebourg L’Avoene. Pte. Bannister, who went to the front at the commencement of the war, has fought by the side of Pte. J.G. Baughan, who is now reported as being killed on May 16th. He was 33 years old, and had completed several years’ service in the forces. The utmost sympathy is felt with the relatives of both Ptes. Hunt and Bannister in this sacrifice on behalf of King and Country." Bicester Herald 11/06/1915