William Mason

William Henry Mason was a native of Stockton-on-Tees, the son of a metal worker and plater. He served in the military for 22 years, and was a Regimental Sergeant Major of the 18th Hussars during World War I. Mason was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for “gallantry and ability” through his actions during an event on 2 March 1915, in which he “made a reconnaissance of the enemy’s position near Zillebeke, under a heavy fire, and obtained information of great value”. Following the war, Mason served at the Army Physical Training School at Aldershot as a physical training instructor where he was also an active swimmer and wrestler in Army competitions. It was during this time that he was selected as a member of the 1920 Great Britain wrestling squad to compete at the Antwerpen Olympics in the heavyweight freestyle category. Unfortunately, he lasted just 6:41 of his opening bout against the American bronze medalist Fred Meyer.

Mason retired from the military in 1930 and joined the staff at Heswall Nautical Training School at Heswall as a physical training instructor, working until his retirement in 1954 at age 65. He also served in the Home Guard during World War II as a lieutenant. Also an examiner for the Royal Life Saving Society and active member of the Sandon Arms Bowling Club, Mason resided in Heswall until his death in 1961, aged 71.