Born Hull, 10/01/1891. Only son of William James (1857-1947) and Emily Wright (1861-1922), of Thwaite Villas, Cottingham, East Yorks. He had five sisters. His father was a Secretary in the Timber Trade, William worked as an apprentice in the Hull Corn Trade (1911 Census).
After five years’ service in the Territorial Cyclist Force, he joined the 1st Sportsman’s Bn. (23rd (Service) Bn.) Royal Fusiliers at its inception. Transferred to 20th Sqdn. Royal Flying Corps and Royal Garrison Artillery. Died of wounds, on 05/06/1917, aged 26.
His CWGC Grave inscription, reads “ONLY SON OF W.J. & E. SAWDEN OF COTTINGHAM, EAST YORKS”
HIS NAME IS RECORDED ON THE HYMERS SCHOOL MEMORIAL. THERE IS A PLAQUE TO HIM, ON THE WALL, INSIDE ST MARY THE VIRGIN CHURCH, COTTINGHAM.
