David's Story.
David Outten was a native of London, being the son of Stephen and Lydia Outten of Greenwich, but had lived in Runcorn for the last few years with his wife, Maria,at 5 Bridge Street.Prior to joining the Army he worked at the United Alkali Companys works.
His death was described in a letter written to his wife from the commanding officer.
"As commanding officer of the company in which your husband served, I very much regret to have to tell you that he was killed in action aboout 10.30am on Sunday, May 6th. I offer you my deepest sympathy over your great loss. I cannot speak to highly of him, he was always readt to do anything and go anywhere. For a time, as you perhaps know, he was one of the companys stretcher bearers. He is a great loss to the company, and is missed by all his individual friends. I know you would like to know that he could have suffered no pain, being killed instantaneously by a shell. He was buried next day in a military cemetery. Again offering you my sincere sympathy".
Compiled by Graeme Ainsworth