The account below shares some of his research prior to his trip, and photographs during it:

Teddy was born in 1896 and went on to become a student at Sidcot School, who then like millions went to war in 1914 – Teddy at a mere 18 years old. His father was Joseph Hocking, a published author and a Methodist minister, working in Burnley.

Media reporting shows Teddy joined the Loyal Lancashire Regiment in September 1914 as Private Soldier assigned to the 4th Battalion. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lt in December, the same year joining the 5th Battalion.

Teddy was wounded during the Battle of the Somme, which ran between 1st July and 18th November 1916 (possibly twice). Following this (and recuperation), he was appointed ADC (Aide de Campe) to a General Johnson (possibly Brigadier General Charles Bulkeley-Johnson who died 11th April 1917 during the Battle of Arras).

Imperial War Museum Archives show Teddy as being a member of Royal Field Artillery (RFA)/Royal Flying Corps (RFC)/Royal Air Force (RAF). As you see from the photos, Royal Field Artillery is carved onto his headstone. At the time of his death, Teddy was a member of 151 Squadron Royal Air Force flying Sopwith Camels - having transferred to the RAF June 1918. This was essentially a night flying squadron and it is possible Teddy's role was a spotter for RFA units. 

Teddy was killed on 28th October 1918 in the village of Bourlon, west of Cambrai, France whilst trying to land. The site is described as being 'between a cottage and a tree', but I have been unable to progress this - even visiting Bourlon to no avail.

His final resting place is Queant Road Cemetery, Buissy, France, where I was pleased to honour him on behalf of the School.

Students looking at the School memorial today (in its prominent position in our Refectory) will see that Teddy was one of 32 Sidcot Scholars who died in World War I. Our thanks to Al for helping to bring his story to life for us.