The Wolverton Express, April 16th 1915

DAVIDGE, Private [Hayden John] 1st Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Before the outbreak of war, lived at Castlethorpe. Leaves a widow and baby boy. He had served seven years in the army, and for nearly two years was a labourer in the Wolverton Railway Carriage Works before being called up as a Reservist. His age was 24. A letter conveying the sad news was sent by Lieutenant H. Corton Michin, to Mrs. Davidge, in which he stated that Davidge was killed whilst on duty, being sniped through the head. “He was a good soldier always willing, and always cheerful, and he is a great loss to his platoon, and I need hardly say, to his commander. Death was instantaneous. He did not undergo any pain. The officers, N.C.O.’s and men of his platoon all join in sending their deepest sympathy. You will probably be pleased to hear that the men of his section saw that he had a good grave and that the illeg. held a full burial service.”

Private Davidge is the first Castlethorpe man to lay down his life for his King and country, and much sympathy is felt for Mrs. Davidge. Private M. Goulston, in a letter to her, says, “I am proud to say that he died like a soldier, doing his duty. I can tell you that there was not a nicer chap in the service. He met his death whilst he was on day sentry. He went on duty about 12.30 p.m., and when he was looking through a loophole with a pair of field-glasses a bullet struck him just below the left eye.”