The West Riding Royal Garrison Artillery Volunteers were, like all volunteer units, not designed to serve abroad and could only be called for full time service in UK in the event of invasion. In 1900, as one of the consequences of the Boer War, a category called Special Service Section was introduced which would allow men who so wished to serve anywhere in the world. Volunteering for that category didn't necessarily mean he went abroad, only that he would be able to do so.
Can't find his name in any Boer War era lists. You'll note his record has no detail of service abroad only that he volunteered for the Special Services Section. He bought himself out in Feb 1901.
MaxD
