Yorkshire Evening Post – Monday 15 November 1948

Man Dies as Wife Has Baby

Fifteen minutes after Fred Wesley (26), lock keeper, Forge House, Kilnhurst had fallen into the canal lock and drowned, his wife, alone in their home, gave birth to a daughter.

After Nurse Parker, of Swinton, had visited Mrs. Wesley, the husband escorted the nurse home and returned the lock-house. His wife heard him unlock the door, but before going to her room went out empty a pall.

Apparently he missed his footing and fell into the lock. He is a non-swimmer.

Mrs. Wesley was alone for more six hours, then the nurse returned. Mother and child were taken Rotherham Hospital. They are reported fairly well.

Wesley’s body was recovered from the canal 30ft. from his front door