War veteran could be honoured with new memorial

4 January 2026

Dawn Limbuand

Daisy Bodkin,West of England

News image — Bill Clements, a World War Two Veteran, was a well-known figure in Barton

Supplied A black and white photo of Bill Clements sitting on the pavement next to a wall. He is wearing a long black coat, dark trousers and leather shoes. His hands are clasped together and there is a teacup on the floor next to him. — Bill Clements, a World War Two Veteran, was a well-known figure in Barton

A campaign has been launched to create a memorial for a "well-known" war veteran who died 30 years ago.

Bill Clements, known locally as Barton Billy, slept rough around Gloucester's All Saints Church and Victoria Street in the Barton area of the city when he returned from World War Two.

While researching a book, author Paul James discovered how well-loved Mr Clements was and now hopes to raise £1,000 to create a memorial in his honour.

Mr James said: "Because he was a figure held in such affection, there are a lot of people that would like to pay tribute to him."

Mr Clements was a prisoner of war, captured by the Japanese, and after his release became fearful of enclosed spaces, even in his own home.

The "well-known" man was looked after by residents in Gloucester, who gave him food and clothing, Mr James explained.

Paul James Image shows Tredworth Cemetery. There is a white X on the spot where Bill's ashes have been scattered. There are rows of gravestones and hedges in the background. — The white X marks the spot where Bill's ashes were scattered at Tredworth Cemetary

During his time in Japan, Mr Clements was "very badly treated".

"There were stories that we've read about prisoners including Billy being forced to lie down on the ground and be threatened with having a steam roller run over them," Mr James added.

Mr Clements, who joined the 3rd The King's Own Hussars before the war, returned to Gloucester in 1945 an emaciated shadow of his former self.

"People say that he kept himself to himself, I think that was down to his experiences, but he was certainly friendly and harmless," said Mr James.

The author said he was inspired to campaign for the memorial after realising how affectionate local people felt about Mr Clements.

It will be placed where Mr Clements' ashes are scattered at the old cemetery in Tredworth.

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