Honouring Warrington’s Heroes: A Remembrance Day Tribute
This Remembrance Day, we pause to honour the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the two World Wars. For Warrington, these are not just names in a history book—they are our players, officials, family members, and friends who answered the call to serve. The legacy of their courage and dedication remains woven into the fabric of our community, echoing through our club’s heritage and our nation’s memory.
More than 90 members of Warrington’s rugby club served during the Great War, and 11 of them gave their lives in the fight for freedom. Many others were wounded, carrying the physical and emotional scars of war long after returning home. The impact of their service went beyond the playing field and into the hearts of their families and communities, leaving an indelible mark on our town.
Stories of Heroism and Sacrifice
These players were more than athletes; they were heroes. Their stories of bravery, loyalty, and resilience continue to resonate, a testament to their commitment to both club and country. From the heroics of Private George Thomas, whose record-breaking feats on the rugby field became legendary, to his sacrifice at the Battle of the Somme, their deeds inspire us to this day. Thomas, a forward known affectionately as “Ponty” for his Welsh roots, famously scored five tries and kicked eight goals in a single game against St. Helens in 1909, setting a record that stood for 90 years. In April 1916, from the Western Front, Thomas wrote home with: “If I should fall, you can tell the boys I fell fighting like a hero should do for his King and country.” A few months later, he was killed in action at just 35 years old.
Other players displayed extraordinary bravery on the front lines. Sergeant-Major James Tilley, a full-back when Warrington won the Challenge Cup in 1907, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for “conspicuous gallantry” after rescuing a buried soldier under intense shellfire. Sergeant Charles Lewis Ashton was recognized with the Military Medal after he captured a German machine gun post and took the occupants prisoner—a feat that underscored the valour he displayed both on and off the field.
Private Arthur “Crack” Naylor, a Challenge Cup winner and survivor of a sniper’s bullet, faced near-death on the battlefield when a bullet passed through his ear, neck, and back. He later wrote home with hope and gratitude: “The doctors say I am a very lucky man to be living.” His determination to survive embodied the spirit that marked both his rugby career and his military service.
Sadly, others did not return. Private John “Johnno” Stuntz, an Australian who joined Warrington as a talented athlete, experienced his first day in combat at the Battle of Bullecourt, which would also be his last. He was last seen alive dodging German machine-gun fire and moving from shell hole to shell hole. His courage in that final battle is remembered by his teammates and countrymen.
The Impact of War on the Club
The impact of the war reached all aspects of life, even in the sporting world. A scheduled match between Warrington and Wigan was postponed because so many players had volunteered to fight, leaving the club unable to field a team. In June 1915, at the Northern Union’s AGM, it was decided to suspend competitive football for all but schoolboys and under-18 intermediates. Warrington chose not to participate in the friendly matches arranged for the 1915-16 season, with some players joining Runcorn’s team to keep the game alive. By November 1917, when Swinton arrived at Warrington’s Wilderspool stadium, they could only field four players, borrowing six Warrington reserves to complete a team. The game finished 33-0 in Warrington’s favour, yet the eerie, semi-dark finish reflected the shadow the war had cast over the sport and the nation.
When peace was declared in November 1918, Warrington looked back on these sacrifices with both pride and sorrow. Half a generation of the town’s young men was lost, and every family felt the impact of the war’s toll. Those who returned to rugby in 1919 were joined by new players and former teammates from Runcorn. Together, they marked the club’s return to competition with a victory against Oldham—a small but significant triumph in the journey to rebuild.
A Legacy Etched in Memory
The stories of these players—George Thomas, James Tilley, Arthur Naylor, Charles Ashton, John Stuntz, and many others—are not just part of our club’s history but serve as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made for future generations. Their words, courage, and resilience continue to inspire us today. The Warrington War Memorial at Bridge Foot stands as a solemn tribute to these brave souls, a reminder of their service, and a symbol of the town’s gratitude. It honours not just the fallen players of Warrington but all from our community who served.
We invite everyone to learn more about this important chapter in our club’s history. On your next visit to the stadium, be sure to visit our Heritage Wall, located in the Jack Fish Corner. This tribute celebrates the men who wore the Warrington colours with pride and those who sacrificed everything on the front lines.
Today, as we remember the fallen, we stand united to honour their legacy. The bravery and sacrifice of those who served will never be forgotten.
Lest We Forget.
