58748: Postcard of German prisoners at Frimley

This is a postcard of German prisoners of war sent in 1915 by Thomas Nicholson who was training with the Royal Field Artillery, probably in the Aldershot area. Thomas Nicholson, service number 18311, was born in Easington Lane, Co Durham to Thomas Scott Nicholson and Ruth nee Stewart. He was educated at the Johnston Technical School in Durham City. After learning to ride and completing his military training, He arrived in France on the 20th of July, 1915 and served as a gunner, then bombardier. The post card was sent to his sweetheart, Mary Cross, born in Gateshead in 1893. The handwriting is now partly illegible but it is possible to read:

...'I am like a jockey now. I was out on horseback again this morning again & it was grand. I will write again soon dear. I miss you very much lass ...'

Thomas and Mary married in Tudhoe, Co Durham in 1919, Thomas worked at various pits in Durham to support his family of six children: May, Rene, Rose, Peggie, Joan and Joseph. Mary died in 1964, and Thomas in 1969, both in Spennymoor, Co Durham.

Editor's Comment:
Caption on card: 'German Prisoners at Frimley en route for Frith Hill'.