His commanding officer wrote to his widow with the news of his death, the letter was published in the Mansfield Reporter and Sutton Times on 22nd November 1918
“France, Oct. 29th, 1918.
“My dear Mrs. Scotney,
It is with a feeling of very deep regret that I write you concerning the death of your husband, H.L. Scotney, who was killed in action on September 29th, just a month ago. I am very sorry I have been so tardy in writing to you, but we have been so occupied and had moved about so much, I have hardly had a chance. Then, too, it was difficult to get definite news, and I felt I had better wait until I had the correct news before writing. He was killed about five minutes past eight on the morning of Sept. 29th, whilst attacking the outposts of the Hindenburg line. I regret to add that his officer and five others of his crew were killed as well. On October 22nd I went out personally with a party and erected a substantial cross over the resting place. The grave is beautifully situated in a quiet little valley, and I made a sketch of it, which I will send you a copy as soon as it is done. I have the exact map reference of the spot, and as soon as I can send you a map you shall have one. I am sorry I can’t send you any of his personal belongings as the Tank was burnt up, and all their kit destroyed. We lost some good men that day, but none better than your husband. I can assure you that we miss him very much. Personally I was very fond of him, and considered him one of the best drivers of my section. Apart from the map I spoke of, if there is anything I can do for you please let me know. Please accept my deep sympathy in your loss.
“Very sincerely,
“JOHN S. HALL,
“Captain, 16th Battn., Tank Corps,
“B.E.F.”
Above article is courtesy of Jim Grundy and his facebook pages Small Town Great Wat Hucknall 1914-1918. Note: it appears that the writer of the letter, Captain Hall, survived the war.