Help needed to trace Deddington war soldier's relatives

Sergeant Frank Jarrett was born in Philcote Street in the village in 1885, becoming a butcher and marrying Ada Irons of Summertown in 1909. Together they emigrated to Canada in 1913 and he enlisted in the Canadian Army on the outbreak of war but died of pneumonia in March 1916 just as his battalion was due to sail to France.

But because his birthplace was incorrectly recorded as Chipping Norton, Sgt Jarrett’s name was not put on Deddington’s war memorial when it was unveiled in June 2013.

But now Rob Forsyth, who was part of a parish project to research names on the war memorial, is working with by Dan Mackay from Bicester after he uncovered dog tags which was inscribed ‘F Jarrett’ while searching an old army camp.

The pair are anxious to get in touch with any relatives of Sgt Jarrett in the hope they can be present when his name gets added to the memorial.

Mr Forsyth said: “This research led to the discovery of 21 Deddington men who should rightfully be named on the memorial but were not. The Canadian Army error meant that Frank Jarrett’s name was missed.”

If you can help call Mr Forsyth on 01869 338384.