Kenneth Robinson

Kenneth was born in Dunscar, near Turton, Bolton in 1883, where his family had been doctors for four generations. He entered Manchester University as a research student in Public Health in 1900. Over 6` tall and powerfully built he was a keen sportsman and was a Rugby forward for the University which he went on to captain. On graduation he went into practise as a G.P in Llandudno, Wales.

Kenneth enlisted into the Royal Army Medical Corps in early 1915 and after just three weeks training in Torquay he was sent to France. He served initially with the 53rd Field Ambulance before transferring as Medical Officer to the 1/12th Manchester Regiment. The C.O of the unit would write that in action he “…. knew no fear….” . He was killed in action near Ypres on the 25th September 1915 while going to the aid of a wounded man, struck in the heart by a rifle shot.  The following was in the Bolton Journal and Guardian of October 1st 1915: “In communicating with Dr. Robinson’s parents, Major E. McFarlane, second in command of the 12th Manchester’s, says:- “I regret to inform you that Lieut. Robinson, R.A.M.C., was killed about 9 p.m. yesterday (Sept. 25th), as he was proceeding from the Headquarters dug-out to dress a wounded man. All ranks in the battalion will feel the loss of this gallant officer, who had the interests of the unit so much at heart. It will, I hope, ease your distress, to know that he died at once and had no pain. He was a loyal and splendid officer, and was adored by every officer, N.C.O., and man in the regiment. He was very unselfish, and had no sense of fear. Indeed, he was about the best type of officer I have ever seen.” Major McFarlane added that the deceased was buried at 4 p.m. the following day.”

Kenneth had four brothers who all graduated from Manchester University; one of whom, Marshall, was wounded at Loos in 1915 serving as a Captain in the Royal Welsh Fusiliers.