Mexborough and Swinton Times, March 3, 1917

Goldthorpe Officer’s Distinction
Military Cross for Brilliant Ranker

Capt Percy Townend Hough

We understand that captain Percy Townend Hough (Royal Engineers) of 9 Lockwood Rd, Goldthorpe, formerly a mining student at Hickleton Main, is to receive the Military Cross for good work on January 31.

Capt Hough enlisted in the first week of war while on holiday in Scarborough, and joined the Yorkshire Regiment. He quickly rose to the rank of sergeant, and took part in several heavy engagements, including the Battle of Neuve Chappelle, in Flanders in the first stage of the campaign.

He won his commissioned by gallant conduct and other soldiery qualities, and his knowledge of mining engineering secured his transference to a Tunnelling Company of the Royal Engineers, with which he is still serving. He received his “company” some months ago.

Before the war he was a prominent local leader of the Boy Scout movement pattern