Matthew Brooks's Story.
Lost his life when the Hampshire was sunk by a mine off the Orkneys. There were only 12 survivors. Among the lost was Lord Kitchener, Secretary of State for War. Son of Matthew and Mary Hobson of Crewe and husband of Rose Miriam Hobson of 8, Gatefield Street, Crewe. A former pupil of Hightown LNWR Boys School. On the day of his death, his wife was staying with her sister at 26, Richard Moon Street, Crewe and received a letter informing her that her husband was safe and well, and the Hampshire had escaped the Jutland battle with hardly a scratch. Previously attended the Mechanics Institute in Crewe, along with Cuthbert Fincken, who was also lost on the Hampshire. Employed in the Copper Shop, Crewe Works. Joined the Navy in 1903 (from a position in Doncaster) and served for four years on submarines. Also served in China aboard HMS Triumph.
Service record available.
Uploaded by Mark A. Potts on January 20, 2018.