Harrogate Herald - 16th May 1917

W H Breare letter

We have a linotype machine standing idle, because we have lost the man who worked it before he was called up for the Army. That same man is now Gunner W Wiley, of the RGA, stationed with a battery in Scotland. He went there after a fortnight at Ripon. Wiley came in to see me this morning, and I was glad to hear him say he was "never better" and enjoying the life. His comrades include H Gill, who was formerly employed at Mr A Preston's picture frame shop in Oxford Street; A Bell, of New Park, who worked at Standing's; and Wood, Oatlands Mount, formerly employed at the Post Office, West Park; Robson, another Harrogate lad, was with Wiley in another battery. Wiley's military experience has certainly improved his physical appearance. He is as straight as a die, and looks the picture of health. It is gratifying when the boys take to it like that, isn't it? his linotype machine is still idle, for it is impossible to get a new hand. That machine standing idle is costing us £300 a year; still we do not grumble. We have all to do our bit, in our various ways.

Harrogate Herald - 13th June 1917

W H Breare letter

You Herald Office boys will be glad to know that Wiley, who worked one of those linos in our office, is with me just at this minute, whilst I am talking to you. He is home on leave and looks very well. perhaps you will meet him some day, when I know you will be glad to see him. He is in the artillery.

A H G Gill, who worked at Preston's picture frame shop, a pal of Wiley's, is also here on leave. Harry Wiley, brother of above, has been "out" a fortnight. He worked with us on the Monotype - the machine that casts the new typo. Herald boys will know Crawford, who works on the same machine. He is off work, not being very well.

Harrogate Herald - 2nd January 1918

The following are men who have sent us the Army post-card briefly stating that they are well and have received papers and parcels, or whose letters contain views that have repeatedly been expressed by other correspondents, but show their friends that they are all right :

Gunner W Wiley

Harrogate Herald – 15th January 1919

Gunner W Wiley writes : 

Am in receipt of your kind wishes and gift, and I wish to express my gratitude and thanks for your generosity. The festive season is about over, yet considering that we are living under trying conditions, I consider that we did not do so badly. On Xmas Day one officer dined with us, and a sumptuous dinner was served, to which we did ample justice. Afterwards cigars and cigarettes were handed round. During this meal speeches were made by the officer and NCO's and a toast proposed "To those at Home", which I thought very appropriate. There were no musical honours, but judging from the hearty cheers which followed I should say there was music for all time. On Boxing Day our boys were entertained to a splendid tea at the YMCA in the town, after which animated pictures were shown and enjoyed by all present. Tired though we all were on retiring to bed, yet everyone was cheerful and happy., for the future seemed brighter and the days of war at an end. Again thanking you, Sir, for your kindness. Best wishes to all.