Amongst others who will never come back from the “Great Adventure” is Private Ralph Ernest Thorn, son of Mr T. Thorn of Newtown Road, who was killed on April 7th in France.  He served in the Berks Yeomanry and in the Fire Brigade, and joined up in September last, going abroad in December, taking part in some hard fighting with the Royal Berks Regiment.  He was in the recent great attacks, but unfortunately was killed while resting behind the lines.  A letter which Mrs Thorn has received from his officer states that  “He was a good fellow, always did his best for his officers, and was well liked by his comrades.  He suffered no pain whatever, being instantly killed in his sleep.  A shell fell into his tent door and the shock killed him instantaneously.  He was not mutilated and received a proper burial.”  The letter concluded with sympathy for Mrs Thorn and family.