William Henry's Story.
Birkenhead News 02 February
Death of L. Cpl. Overington
We deeply regret to announce the death of Lance-Corporal William Henry (Harry) Overington, Royal Fusiliers, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas I. Overington of Glenalbyn, Warren Drive, New Brighton. He was taken ill with pneumonia, and passed away on January 24 at the York Military Hospital. The deceased youth, who was only 18 years of age, joined the colours on May 2, 1917. He was educated at Calday Grange Grammar School, West Kirby, where he was a boarder for nearly seven years, and left in 1916, after passing the Oxford senior local examination. He took the keenest interest in everything connected with the school, both as a pupil, and during his short life as an old boy. He was a sergeant in the Cadet Corps and will be remembered as one of the most useful members of exceptionally strong cricket and football elevens. He was a sturdy and reliable back in the football team, and in his last year earned two presentation bats for scores of more than 50 in the 1st. XI cricket matches. He was a good all-round sport, and the news of his death was received with great sorrow at his old school.
Widespread sympathy has been extended to the parents in the irreparable loss they have sustained. Previous to coming to Wallasey Mr Overington was a member of the Birkenhead Council for three years.
THE FUNERAL
The interment took place on Wednesday at Flaybrick Hill Cemetery, the last rites being conducted by the Rev. W Hollowell of Calday Grange Grammar School. The coffin was draped with the Union Jack and carried on a gun carriage. About seventy members of the School Cadet Corps with their officers attended the funeral. The firing party consisted of a detachment of the Border Regt. and a bugler sounded the “Last Post.”
