A.B. William Sydney Wooldridge
HMS Phoenix
Leeds Mercury - Tuesday 07 October 1913
NORTH SEA MANOEUVRES. The first, second, and fourth destroyer flotillas left Longhope Sunday evening for Cromarty to take part in the North Sea manoeuvres which began yesterday. Before leaving boat belonging to the destroyer Phoenix capsized, and Able-Seaman Wooldridge, of Portsmouth, was drowned.
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NORTH SEA MANOEUVRES. The first, second, and fourth destroyer flotillas left Longhope Sunday evening for Cromarty to take part in the North Sea manoeuvres which began yesterday. Before leaving boat belonging to the destroyer Phoenix capsized, and Able-Seaman Wooldridge, of Portsmouth, was drowned.
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Hartlepool Northern Daily Mail - Tuesday 07 October 1913.
FOOTBALLER DROWNED. William Sydney Wooldridge was drowned from the destroyer Phoenix at Longhope, on the Orkneys coast Sunday night. He was one of the best-known football players in the Navy, and had also appeared for the Scottish Hibernians, Blackburn Rovers, and other prominent teams. It is stated (says a Portsmouth correspondent) that Blackburn Rovers thought so highly of his form that they offered to purchase Wooldridge’s discharge from the Navy so that he might Join their team, but he refused the offer.
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FOOTBALLER DROWNED. William Sydney Wooldridge was drowned from the destroyer Phoenix at Longhope, on the Orkneys coast Sunday night. He was one of the best-known football players in the Navy, and had also appeared for the Scottish Hibernians, Blackburn Rovers, and other prominent teams. It is stated (says a Portsmouth correspondent) that Blackburn Rovers thought so highly of his form that they offered to purchase Wooldridge’s discharge from the Navy so that he might Join their team, but he refused the offer.
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The Scotsman - Wednesday 08 October 1913
The Fatal Boating Accident at Longhope . — Further details are now to hand regarding the boating accident at Longhope, Orkney, in which a bluejacket belonging to the destroyer Phoenix lost his life: On Sunday eight boats of the first flotilla were sailing in the-bay, that belonging-to the Phoenix being in charge of Sub-Lieutenant Harvey of that vessel. The deceased named William Wooldridge, able seaman, belonging to Portsmouth, was holding the sheet, as the boat was running free. The whaler suddenly gibed, filling to the thwarts, her head, coming into the wind. The officer in charge, whose attention had been taken up with the mizzen sheet saw Wooldridge in the water about twenty yards to windward. Sub-Lieutenant Harvey at once jumped overboard and swam to the man's rescue. Wooldridge, however grasped hold of the officer by the legs and arms and both sank. Lieutenant Harvey, however, managed to get clear and on reaching the surface just saw the seaman's-hand disappearing under water. So far the body has not been recovered
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The Fatal Boating Accident at Longhope . — Further details are now to hand regarding the boating accident at Longhope, Orkney, in which a bluejacket belonging to the destroyer Phoenix lost his life: On Sunday eight boats of the first flotilla were sailing in the-bay, that belonging-to the Phoenix being in charge of Sub-Lieutenant Harvey of that vessel. The deceased named William Wooldridge, able seaman, belonging to Portsmouth, was holding the sheet, as the boat was running free. The whaler suddenly gibed, filling to the thwarts, her head, coming into the wind. The officer in charge, whose attention had been taken up with the mizzen sheet saw Wooldridge in the water about twenty yards to windward. Sub-Lieutenant Harvey at once jumped overboard and swam to the man's rescue. Wooldridge, however grasped hold of the officer by the legs and arms and both sank. Lieutenant Harvey, however, managed to get clear and on reaching the surface just saw the seaman's-hand disappearing under water. So far the body has not been recovered
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Mid-Lothian Journal - Friday 10 October 1913
WILLIAM SIDNEY WOOLDRIDGE (Musselburgh Athletic P.C.). Considerable regret is being expressed in Musselburgh and district at the Ioss sustained by the Musselburgh Athletic Club through the death, by drowning, of their crack centre forward, W. S. Wooldridge. Wooldridge, who was an able-seaman onboard the H.M.S. Phoenix, was taking part in a sailing race near Longhope in the North Sea when his boat capsized. Although an expert swimmer, the lad was handicapped by his oilskin clothing and a heavy running tide quickly carried him out to sea. Wooldridge, although only connected with the Olive Bank Club since July, had made many friends in Musselburgh through his undoubted ability and quiet unassuming nature. His loss to the club at the present time is a most serious one as he was recognised as the best centre forward presently playing in Midlothian League circles. It was anticipated that he would turn out at the Marine Gardens to-morrow after three weeks' absence from the team during naval manoeuvres. As a mark of respect the Musselburgh Athletic Club will wear black armbands during their game with Portobello Thistle.
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WILLIAM SIDNEY WOOLDRIDGE (Musselburgh Athletic P.C.). Considerable regret is being expressed in Musselburgh and district at the Ioss sustained by the Musselburgh Athletic Club through the death, by drowning, of their crack centre forward, W. S. Wooldridge. Wooldridge, who was an able-seaman onboard the H.M.S. Phoenix, was taking part in a sailing race near Longhope in the North Sea when his boat capsized. Although an expert swimmer, the lad was handicapped by his oilskin clothing and a heavy running tide quickly carried him out to sea. Wooldridge, although only connected with the Olive Bank Club since July, had made many friends in Musselburgh through his undoubted ability and quiet unassuming nature. His loss to the club at the present time is a most serious one as he was recognised as the best centre forward presently playing in Midlothian League circles. It was anticipated that he would turn out at the Marine Gardens to-morrow after three weeks' absence from the team during naval manoeuvres. As a mark of respect the Musselburgh Athletic Club will wear black armbands during their game with Portobello Thistle.
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Hampshire Telegraph - Friday 10 October 1913
NAVAL FATALITIES.
PORTSMOUTH FOOTBALL PLAYER DROWNED.
DESTROYER BOAT ACCIDENT.
During some rowing races at Longhope, Orkney, on the Northern Scottish coast, in which the vessels of the First Second, and Fourth Destroyer Flotillas took part, a sad accident has occurred, involving the death of well-known Portsmouth bluejacket named William Sydney Wooldridge. The deceased, who was 22 years of age, was with five other men in boat belonging to the destroyer Phoenix. There was a strong north-easterly breeze at time, and the little vessel capsized, all the occupants being thrown into the sea. The other five men were rescued, but though a sub Lieutenant dived overboard after him, Wooldridge was not seen again, and his body was not recovered before the flotillas of destroyers left for Cromarty to take part in the North Sea manoeuvres. Wooldridge, an able seaman, was a native of Portsmouth, his mother keeping the Manor House, Kingston-road. He formerly served at Whale Island (H.M.S. Excellent, gunnery School at Portsmouth) and was one of the best football players of the Excellent’s team, his position being outside left.
AS A FOOTBALLER.
The sad news of Wooldridge's death will come great shock to his many friends and admirers in local and Service football circles. While his correct position was outside right, he was almost as brilliant on the other extreme wing, and frequently played there. He was a very steady youngster, and had the reputation of being one the most sportsmanlike Service players. He was extremely fast, had fine control of the ball even when travelling at full speed, was very tricky, always dangerous when in possession. On September 1st he played at outside left for United Services against Portsmouth Fratton Park, and was unquestionably the best forward on view that day. Wooldridge learned his football while at St. Mary’s-road, School, and began playing for H.M.S. Excellent in 1909. Although he was never selected for the Navy, he frequently played in the inter-port matches. Since joining the Phoenix he had been playing for Glasgow Hibernians and had created a favourable impression.
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NAVAL FATALITIES.
PORTSMOUTH FOOTBALL PLAYER DROWNED.
DESTROYER BOAT ACCIDENT.
During some rowing races at Longhope, Orkney, on the Northern Scottish coast, in which the vessels of the First Second, and Fourth Destroyer Flotillas took part, a sad accident has occurred, involving the death of well-known Portsmouth bluejacket named William Sydney Wooldridge. The deceased, who was 22 years of age, was with five other men in boat belonging to the destroyer Phoenix. There was a strong north-easterly breeze at time, and the little vessel capsized, all the occupants being thrown into the sea. The other five men were rescued, but though a sub Lieutenant dived overboard after him, Wooldridge was not seen again, and his body was not recovered before the flotillas of destroyers left for Cromarty to take part in the North Sea manoeuvres. Wooldridge, an able seaman, was a native of Portsmouth, his mother keeping the Manor House, Kingston-road. He formerly served at Whale Island (H.M.S. Excellent, gunnery School at Portsmouth) and was one of the best football players of the Excellent’s team, his position being outside left.
AS A FOOTBALLER.
The sad news of Wooldridge's death will come great shock to his many friends and admirers in local and Service football circles. While his correct position was outside right, he was almost as brilliant on the other extreme wing, and frequently played there. He was a very steady youngster, and had the reputation of being one the most sportsmanlike Service players. He was extremely fast, had fine control of the ball even when travelling at full speed, was very tricky, always dangerous when in possession. On September 1st he played at outside left for United Services against Portsmouth Fratton Park, and was unquestionably the best forward on view that day. Wooldridge learned his football while at St. Mary’s-road, School, and began playing for H.M.S. Excellent in 1909. Although he was never selected for the Navy, he frequently played in the inter-port matches. Since joining the Phoenix he had been playing for Glasgow Hibernians and had created a favourable impression.
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The Scotsman - Friday 10 October 1913
Body Recovered. —The body of the Bluejacket Wm Wooldridge, belonging to Portsmouth, of H.M. destroyer Phoenix, who was drowned in Longhope Bay on Sunday afternoon was yesterday recovered.
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Body Recovered. —The body of the Bluejacket Wm Wooldridge, belonging to Portsmouth, of H.M. destroyer Phoenix, who was drowned in Longhope Bay on Sunday afternoon was yesterday recovered.
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St Mary's Road gate to Kingston Cemetery, Portsmouth. Photo: Hassocks5489
Hampshire Telegraph - Friday 17 October 1913
NAVAL FOOTBALLER'S FUNERAL. TOUCHING SCENES AT KINGSTON. Amid every token of respect the remains of William Wooldridge, the young seaman, late of H.M.S. Excellent, and serving on H.M.S. Phoenix, who lost his life under tragic circumstances last week in Longhope, were interred on Tuesday at Kingston Cemetery.
The cortege left the deceased house in Fratton Road shortly after 2.30, headed by the band of H.M.S Excellent and a firing party from H.M.S. Venus, and wended its way to the Mary's-road entrance of the Cemetery. Here an immense concourse of friends of the deceased, and sympathisers, numbering several thousands, joined mourners, who included the deceased mother, brother, sister. Mr. and Mrs. Smith (uncle and Aunt). Mr. and Mrs McDermott (uncle and aunt), Sid McDermott and Messrs. Calloway, G. Wroe, S.H. Todd, and A. E. Hammond (the latter two representing the United Service Football League )The burial service was impressively conducted by the Rev. P. T. B. Clayton, curate at the Portsea Parish Church, the deceased having been member St. Mary company. The coffin was completely covered with floral tributes, while the deceased old football conference, acted as pall bearers. During the committal sentences many those assembled, including the sailor's shed tears, and at the conclusion of the ceremony, when the three volleys were fired and the "Last Post" sounded, the scene was a most touching one. The hymn Rock of Age. was feelingly sung.
The wreaths included a broken harp from deceased mother, and others from his sister Emmie, his grandmother, Percy and Ada, Alice and Charlie, Ada and Sld. Uncle Jim and Aunt Maggie. Aunt Harriet and Uncle Alf, from his old chum Charlie White. Mr. and Mrs. Johns. Mr. and Mrs C. Bennett, Mr. and Mrs Wells .Mr and Mrs. Todd. Mr. and Mr. Scadden, Mrs. Suett, Mr and Mrs Edney shipmates and friends, Mr. and Mrs. Brown, St. Mary's Co.. Officers H.M.S. Phoenix , former shipmates H.M.S. Phoenix, H.M.S. Excellent Football Club, ship’s company H.M.S. Excellent, ship’s company H.M.S. Goshawk, United Service League, ships company H.M.S. Venus. Harry May and several others from old friends. The coffin was of polished oak with brass fittings and bore the following inscription; . William Wooldridge, died October, 6th, 1913, aged 21 years. The funeral arrangements were in the hands of Mr. F. Roberts, Arundel-street. Landport.
NAVAL FOOTBALLER'S FUNERAL. TOUCHING SCENES AT KINGSTON. Amid every token of respect the remains of William Wooldridge, the young seaman, late of H.M.S. Excellent, and serving on H.M.S. Phoenix, who lost his life under tragic circumstances last week in Longhope, were interred on Tuesday at Kingston Cemetery.
The cortege left the deceased house in Fratton Road shortly after 2.30, headed by the band of H.M.S Excellent and a firing party from H.M.S. Venus, and wended its way to the Mary's-road entrance of the Cemetery. Here an immense concourse of friends of the deceased, and sympathisers, numbering several thousands, joined mourners, who included the deceased mother, brother, sister. Mr. and Mrs. Smith (uncle and Aunt). Mr. and Mrs McDermott (uncle and aunt), Sid McDermott and Messrs. Calloway, G. Wroe, S.H. Todd, and A. E. Hammond (the latter two representing the United Service Football League )The burial service was impressively conducted by the Rev. P. T. B. Clayton, curate at the Portsea Parish Church, the deceased having been member St. Mary company. The coffin was completely covered with floral tributes, while the deceased old football conference, acted as pall bearers. During the committal sentences many those assembled, including the sailor's shed tears, and at the conclusion of the ceremony, when the three volleys were fired and the "Last Post" sounded, the scene was a most touching one. The hymn Rock of Age. was feelingly sung.
The wreaths included a broken harp from deceased mother, and others from his sister Emmie, his grandmother, Percy and Ada, Alice and Charlie, Ada and Sld. Uncle Jim and Aunt Maggie. Aunt Harriet and Uncle Alf, from his old chum Charlie White. Mr. and Mrs. Johns. Mr. and Mrs C. Bennett, Mr. and Mrs Wells .Mr and Mrs. Todd. Mr. and Mr. Scadden, Mrs. Suett, Mr and Mrs Edney shipmates and friends, Mr. and Mrs. Brown, St. Mary's Co.. Officers H.M.S. Phoenix , former shipmates H.M.S. Phoenix, H.M.S. Excellent Football Club, ship’s company H.M.S. Excellent, ship’s company H.M.S. Goshawk, United Service League, ships company H.M.S. Venus. Harry May and several others from old friends. The coffin was of polished oak with brass fittings and bore the following inscription; . William Wooldridge, died October, 6th, 1913, aged 21 years. The funeral arrangements were in the hands of Mr. F. Roberts, Arundel-street. Landport.
Headstone in St Mary's, Kingston Cemetery, Portsmouth. Photo Mick Fisher
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Orkney Herald, and Weekly Advertiser and Gazette for the Orkney & Zetland Islands - Wednesday 22 October 1913
THE DROWNING ACCIDENT AT LONGHOPE.
FUNERAL OF VICTIM.
TOUCHING SCENES AT KINGSTON.
Amid every token of respect, the remains of William Wooldridge, the young able seaman, late of H.M.S. Excellent, and serving on H.M.S. Phoenix, who lost his life under tragic circumstances on the 5th inst. at Longhope, were interred on Tuesday the 14th inst. at Kingston Cemetery.
The cortege left deceased's house in Fratton Road shortly after 2.30, headed by the band of H.M.S. Excellent, and a firing party from H.M.S. Venus, and wended its way to the St Mary's Road entrance of the cemetery.
Here an immense concourse of friends of the deceased, and sympathisers, numbering several thousands, joined the mourners, who included the deceased's mother, brother, sister, Mr and Mrs Smith (uncle and aunt), Mr and Mrs McDermott (uncle and aunt), Sid McDermott, and Messrs Calloway, G. Wroe, S.H. Todd, and A.E. Hammond (the latter two representing the United Services Football League).
The burial service was impressively conducted by the Rev. P.T B. Clayton, curate at the Portsea Parish Church, the deceased having been a member of St Mary's Company. The coffin was completely covered with floral tributes, while the deceased's old football conferences acted as pallbearers. During the committal sentences many of those assembled, including the sailors, shed tears, and at the conclusion of the ceremony, when the three volleys were fired and the " Last Post" sounded, the scene was a most touching one.
On Saturday a benefit football match on behalf of the widowed mother of Wooldridge was played at Olive Bank, Musselburgh. £l5 was taken at the gates, and 2000 tickets were sold. It is believed that fully £5O will be handed over to the bereaved parent. Wooldridge was a signed player for Musselburgh Athletic. The team who opposed the Musselburgh Athletic were English without exception. Musselburgh won by 4 goals to 2.
THE DROWNING ACCIDENT AT LONGHOPE.
FUNERAL OF VICTIM.
TOUCHING SCENES AT KINGSTON.
Amid every token of respect, the remains of William Wooldridge, the young able seaman, late of H.M.S. Excellent, and serving on H.M.S. Phoenix, who lost his life under tragic circumstances on the 5th inst. at Longhope, were interred on Tuesday the 14th inst. at Kingston Cemetery.
The cortege left deceased's house in Fratton Road shortly after 2.30, headed by the band of H.M.S. Excellent, and a firing party from H.M.S. Venus, and wended its way to the St Mary's Road entrance of the cemetery.
Here an immense concourse of friends of the deceased, and sympathisers, numbering several thousands, joined the mourners, who included the deceased's mother, brother, sister, Mr and Mrs Smith (uncle and aunt), Mr and Mrs McDermott (uncle and aunt), Sid McDermott, and Messrs Calloway, G. Wroe, S.H. Todd, and A.E. Hammond (the latter two representing the United Services Football League).
The burial service was impressively conducted by the Rev. P.T B. Clayton, curate at the Portsea Parish Church, the deceased having been a member of St Mary's Company. The coffin was completely covered with floral tributes, while the deceased's old football conferences acted as pallbearers. During the committal sentences many of those assembled, including the sailors, shed tears, and at the conclusion of the ceremony, when the three volleys were fired and the " Last Post" sounded, the scene was a most touching one.
On Saturday a benefit football match on behalf of the widowed mother of Wooldridge was played at Olive Bank, Musselburgh. £l5 was taken at the gates, and 2000 tickets were sold. It is believed that fully £5O will be handed over to the bereaved parent. Wooldridge was a signed player for Musselburgh Athletic. The team who opposed the Musselburgh Athletic were English without exception. Musselburgh won by 4 goals to 2.
Hampshire Telegraph - Friday 23 January 1914
OFFICERS AND MAN REWARDED.
Bronze medal to Sub-Lieutenant John D. Harvey, H.M.S. Phoenix, for his attempt to save a seaman belonging to the ship who was drowned at Longhope, Orkney, on October 5th.
OFFICERS AND MAN REWARDED.
Bronze medal to Sub-Lieutenant John D. Harvey, H.M.S. Phoenix, for his attempt to save a seaman belonging to the ship who was drowned at Longhope, Orkney, on October 5th.
Case number: 40557
RHS Report: 1914
On the 5th October 1913, a seaman accidentally fell overboard from a boat some 200 yards from shore at Longhope, Orkney. Harvey at once plunged in but being clutched and dragged under was unable to save the man, who was drowned.
On the 5th October 1913, a seaman accidentally fell overboard from a boat some 200 yards from shore at Longhope, Orkney. Harvey at once plunged in but being clutched and dragged under was unable to save the man, who was drowned.
Portsmouth Evening News - Tuesday 05 October 1914
WOOLDRIDGE—In ever loving memory of my dear son. William Sydney Wooldridge, accidentally drowned off Longhope. Scotland. Oct. 5th, 1913. In the midst of life are in death.
WOOLDRIDGE—In ever fond remembrance of my dear brother. William Sydney Wooldridge, accidentally drowned off Longhope, Scotland, Oct. 5th. 1913.—May.
WOOLDRIDGE—In over loving memory of dear grandson. William Sydney Wooldridge, who was drowned at Longhope. Oct. sth. 1313.—Gramma.
WOOLDRIDGE—In ever loving memory of my dear son. William Sydney Wooldridge, accidentally drowned off Longhope. Scotland. Oct. 5th, 1913. In the midst of life are in death.
WOOLDRIDGE—In ever fond remembrance of my dear brother. William Sydney Wooldridge, accidentally drowned off Longhope, Scotland, Oct. 5th. 1913.—May.
WOOLDRIDGE—In over loving memory of dear grandson. William Sydney Wooldridge, who was drowned at Longhope. Oct. sth. 1313.—Gramma.
Portsmouth Evening News - Saturday 07 October 1916
WOOLDRIDGE—In loving memory of my dear son, William Sydney, who was accidentally drowned off Longhope, Oct. 5th, 1913. In the midst of life we are in death.
Portsmouth Evening News - Saturday 07 October 1916
WOOLDRIDGE—In loving memory of my dear son, William Sydney, who was accidentally drowned off Longhope, Oct. 5th, 1913. In the midst of life we are in death.
