Report in the Nantwich Guardian 26th January 1917 regarding the death of Albert Dale
“Official news was received on Tuesday that Private Albert (Bert) Dale of the Manchester Regiment, son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Dale, Frith Farm, Wrenbury, had died on the 16th inst. at a clearing house station after an operation, necessitating the amputation of a leg, following severe wounds received in action the previous day. In 1915 he volunteered for the Army, but was rejected four times, but, nothing deterred, he presented himself at the beginning of 1916 and was accepted for home service, but went to the front the following August. He was 26 years of age, and had four brothers serving. In his earlier days, while attending the Council Schools of the village, he won a County Council scholarship, and later became a pupil teacher in the same school, in which his cheery disposition endeared him to all alike, and where his services were very highly appreciated.
Private Dale was an old boy of the Nantwich and Acton Grammar School, and was there during the headmastership of Mr. S. A. Moor. he was a fine athlete, and twice won the school cup, in one year he carrying off seven first and three second prizes. He was a most popular boy, and the old Grammarians will hear of his death with deep regret.
He had given up the scholastic profession to take up an important appointment with the Alliance Insurance Company when the war broke out. “I am determined to serve my country,” he said, and persisted, in spite of his rejection, in his endeavours to enter the Army, and was eventually passed for service. His letters to his parents were always bright and optimistic, and calculated to hearten the folks at home and make them live for his home-coming. Truly can it be said that he gave his life for his King and country, and his unselfishness made him yield to no danger in any tight corner. In this his parents, sisters, brothers and relations have the consolation of knowing that he sacrificed his fine character at the shrine of duty.”
Nantwich Guardian 26th January 1917