Rather than Private 11914 James Maurice Noble of Blackburn serving in the Dorset Regiment, this casualty is believed to be James Maurison Noble who the Army recorded living at Wanstead when he enlisted at Stratford.
This man was born 7th May 1890 at Fraserburgh, son of John (Fish Curer) and Charlotte Nobel. 1891: With his parents at 19 Charlotte Street, Fraserburgh. 1901: With his parents at 57 School Street, Fraserburgh.
The Battle of Broodseinde began on 4th October 1917, part of the costly but effective final offensive of the Third Ypres Campaign. This completed the capture of Gheluvelt Plateau and occupation of Broodseinde Ridge. The attackers included 4 Division which contained 3/10 Middlesex as part of 10 Brigade. They moved into the line at dusk on 3rd October 1916, and endured overnight blustery rain. British shelling from 27th September culminated at 06.00 on 4th October with a heavy “hurricane” bombardment along an 8 mile attack line. The British moved forward and most of the main objectives were realised by noon, but this was a limited advance (10 Brigade reaching the East of Poelcappelle) which was achieved at a cost in casualties.
10 Brigade fought in the Poelcappelle area, taking Kangaroo Trench, but were prevented from going further by German fire emanating from Lemnos House. From 06.20 two Companies of 3/10 Middlesex had advanced to secure Eagle trench on the German third line of trenches. Later in the day severe casualties were sustained when the Middlesex men moved to reinforce 19 Metre Hill which under German attack.
James Noble was killed during this Battle, and his remains were not recovered.
He is also remembered at Fraserburgh (Kirkton) Cemetery.
Memorial: Roll of Honour: Woodford United Free Church.
Research by Adrian Lee, Local Historian
Sources:
Ancestry.com
Scottish War Memorials Project
Commonwealth War Graves Commission