Dedicated to the memory of all the men and women of the Bridgnorth area who died during the two World Wars.

Ernest Pugh (1886 - 1917)

Ernest Edward Pugh was born towards the end of 1886. He was baptised at Worfield on the 30th January, 1887. He was the son of Thomas Pugh, an agricultural labourer, and his wife, Jane. The family lived at Chesterton before moving to Hilton. After leaving school, Ernest worked as a gardener but by the time of his enlistment he was employed as a groom at Apley Park.

Ernest attested at Ironbridge on 6th December, 1915. He was put on the reserve until 3rd March, 1916 when he was mobilized to join the Royal Garrison Artillery. He went to France on 19th June, 1916, probably already attached to the 116th Siege Battery - the unit with which he was serving when he died.

The siege batteries operated heavy artillery pieces and were usually tasked with destroying the enemy's artillery positions. They were also used to bombard other key targets behind the enemy lines such as ammunition dumps and transport links. Although they usually operated from behind their own lines, they were dangerous to operate and attracted fire from the Enemy's artillery. Ernest died of wounds at No. 2 Anzac Main Dressing Station on 4th October, 1917. He was buried at Ypres Reservoir Cemetery.

Bombardier Pugh, 70071, RGA, was awarded the Victory and British Medals.

This memorial has mostly been compiled from official sources. It would be good to be able to expand it with more personal material - memories, stories, photos, etc. If you have any suitable material or any corrections please contact Greg. For news of updates follow @BridgnorthHeros on Twitter.