SOLDIER DEATHS AT KINGSTHORPE HOLLOW - Oct 19, 1918

An intense feeling exists concerning the epidemic of bronchial pneumonia and influenza among the troops

in the town which has already resulted in 12 deaths out of over 300 cases.  Most of the victims are boys of

18 or 19 who have been exposed to the rigours of a most unsuitable open-air camp in Kingsthorpe Hollow.

The site is near a river, not from a clay pit and an old rubbish dump over made up ground.  Mists

hover around the spot on the warmest nights.  The result was that during the recent heavy rains,

particularly the storms on Sunday, Sept. 29, the camp was converted into a swamp.  The rain penetrated

the tents and the soldiers were left to sleep on the damp ground.  Need we wonder that so many boys

of 18 taken from comfortable homes or warm factories collapsed under their needless sufferings. 

The camp has now been closed down.  Much more is likely to be heard of the whole affair, for at the

Northampton Town Council meeting a week next Monday Councillor A. E. Catt, will move the following

special resolution :-

"That this Council views with alarm the loss in the Borough of many young soldiers, and recommends the

War Office to make strict enquiries as to the cause."