Military Tribunals – William Henry BATES

Messrs Brewer Bros & Sons, bakers, of Badsey, appealed for William H Bates (21), grocer’s manager, of Cow Honeybourne, passed B1. Mr Roberts appeared for appellants. Bates had been manager for two years and in the firm’s employ for seven or eight years. Mr A J Brewer said he formerly managed the Honeybourne shop, and when his brother joined the army he had to go and manage the Badsey business.

Messrs Brewer & Sons, bakers and grocers, Badsey, appealed for William Henry Bates, single, grocer’s manager at the Honeybourne branch. Mr A H Cross (Messrs Smith & Roberts) appeared for the applicant. It was claimed that Bates was a man of very weak physique and quite incapable of making an efficient soldier. His (Mr Brewer’s) two brothers had joined the army. Mr Brewer said Bates was passed B1, and was absolutely essential to his carrying on the old established business (over 60 years), which they had had ten years. Applicants had lost five men, including two brothers. If Bates went they would have to close down the Honeybourne business.