IN THE Stroud News on August 21, 1914, the announcement of the German entry into Brussels on the previous day was made.

On Friday, August 28 the Stroud Journal observed: “The present week has been one of anxiety in mid-Gloucestershire, anxiety which it has shared with the rest of the country.”

By September 4 some 40 recruits had been enrolled from the Cainscross area, 30 in Painswick and 40 in Amberley and by the Tuesday, another 45 in Minchinhampton.

Sept – Dec 1914 the first casualty from France reported, Private W Hankins of the 1st Gloucestershire Regiment, whose parent resides at Bell St, Painswick. He was taken to Aldershot hospital with a wound in the leg sustained while fighting in France.

September 25, the successful attack on British cruisers by German submarines and the consequent sinking of three cruisers posted on the window of the Stroud News.

Oct 2 it was reported that letters which relatives were receiving go to prove the spirits of the men fighting were “excellent”.

October 30 Captain A H Capel of Eastington was reported wounded. Also Capt F Lewis, son of Mr and Mrs Lewis Lloyd of Cooper’s Hill.