The War Graves of Ystradgynlais

William John Woodward served with the Royal Field Artillery on the Western Front, and was killed in action in November 1916. He died of his wounds at the 2nd/2nd London Casualty Clearing Station, Méaulte

The information on William John Woodward has been compiled from a number of sources, including the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, from the Labour Voice newspaper, and the Parish Burial Register (courtesy of the Swansea Archives).

From the Labour Voice newspaper, 9th December 1916 :-

Mrs. W. J. Woodward, residing with her parents Mr. and Mrs. R. J. Thomas, 4 Wind Road, Glanrhyd, has received the sad intelligence of the death in hospital in France of her husband Gunner W. J. Woodward R.F.A., as the result of wounds received in action. The deceased came to this district from Stroud some years ago and worked at Yniscedwyn Works until the outbreak of war, when being a Reservist he was recalled to the colours. He was 28 years old and leaves a widow and one little child to mourn their loss.

From the Labour Voice newspaper, 6th January 1917:-

GLANRHYD CHAPEL YSTRADGYNLAIS

Mrs Woodward, widow of the late Private Woodward Wind Road, who died of wounds at a hospital in France a few weeks ago, was presented with a gift by the Ystradgynlais and District Reception Committee. The chair was taken by the Rev D J Davies, pastor of Ainon Chapel, and the presentation was made by the Rev E Vaughan Ystradgynlais. A pianoforte selection was given by Mrs Samuel, Gurnos, who also ably accompanied throughout the meeting.
The following artistes also took part: Recitation, Miss Lizzie Blakeley; Duet, Miss Rebecca and May Williams; solos, Mrs J H Edwards, Miss Doreen Lewis, and Master Lewis Evans; Recitation by Miss Vera Green and Miss Valma Hopkins; Violin solo, Master Don Jones; Recitation by May Davies (Eithin-ferch); Cornet solo, Mr G Kendrick.
The well known veteran tenor, Mr E Telorydd Nicholas, Ystalyfera, rendered two solos in his usual dramatic and appreciable manner. After the above artistes had taken part the presentation took place, and Miss Adelaide James concluded with "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau."
This was one of the best meetings that has yet been held in connection with the presentation of our local lads.

Edwin Telorydd Nicholas is one of the local individuals celebrated in our Ystalyfera Interesting Lives section.