Dedicated to the memory of all the men and women of the Bridgnorth area who died during the two World Wars.
Charles Norman Wightman was baptised at St Leonard’s, Bridgnorth, on 20 May, 1894. He was the son of George Wightman, an elementary school teacher, and his wife, Isabella. The family lived in Listley Street.
Charles served with the 1st/8th Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment. He was killed in action on 1st July, 1916 – the first day of the Battle of the Somme. He is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial.
Private Wightman, 305149, was awarded the Victory and British medals.
REPORTED “MISSING” [Bridgnorth Journal 29th July, 1916] Mr. Geo. Wightman, head master, St. Leonard's National Schools, Listley Street, Bridgnorth, has received official notice that his son, 1684 Private Charles Norman Wightman, Royal Warwicks, has been posted " missing " since July 1st.
OLD BOY NOTES [Bridgnorth Grammar School Magazine, December 1916] We regret to report that Sgt. A. J. Johnson, Pte C. N. Wightman and Signaller A Stokes are still among the missing. We sympathise most deeply with their parents who are suffering such terrible and protracted anxiety.
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.