William was born in Hampshire on the 17 December 1895. His parents were Albert and Francis Norton and his father worked as a carpenter. They moved often during William’s childhood years, as many had to in search of employment. The family lived in Gosport, Portsmouth and Bosham, before settling in Felpham. At age 16 William was living in Bosham and was employed by his father as a carpenter apprentice.
William enlisted in Bognor in 1915, and joined the Third Battalion, Coldstream Guards which was involved in heavy fighting in France. He suffered injuries during a heavy bombardment during September and October 1915, and was sent home. He died on the 15th of December 1915 and is buried in St Mary’s Church Felpham.
William is listed on the Felpham War Memorial, and on the roll of honour at Bosham Church. Buried along with him is his brother, Edward Horace Norton, who died in 1917 age, just 13.
Census
Medals
Memories Project
Grave Marker in St Mary's Church Felpham
Memorial
