South Ribble Roll of Honour - Blackburn to Clarkson
Links to full biographies at the top of page. Please contact us if you have more information or pictures of any of these men
Private Henry Blackburn. Killed in action 27 March 1918 aged 26
#19723, 15th (Service) Battalion (1st Birkenhead), Cheshire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Pozieres Memorial, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 35 and 36.     ​
Notes: Henry was christened at St. Saviour's in Bamber Bridge. Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Second Lieutenant Norman Henry Gersham Blackburn MC. Killed in action 23 October 1918
8th (Service) Battalion, Princess Charlotte of Wales's (Royal Berkshire Regiment)
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Highland Cemetery, Le Cateau, Nord, France. Panel or Grave Reference: VI.A.17.    ​
Notes: Norman's probate record reads as follows "BLACKBURN Norman Henry Gersham of 2 Dove-avenue Penwortham Lancashire second-lieutenant Royal Berkshire regiment died 23 October 1918 in France Administration Lancaster 16 July to Adelin Blackburn widow. Effects £285 5s." This gives his residence as Penwortham, and the census returns show born in Liverpool. Born in LIVERPOOL and lived in PENWORTHAM.
Private Charles Sago Blackhurst. Killed in action 25 September 1915
#17573, 10th (Service) Battalion, Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Loos Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 57 to 59.     ​
Notes: Also known as Charlie Blackhurst, he was the brother of John Morley Blackhurst below. He was born to William and Celia Blackhurst (nee Sago) in Leyland and lived in Leyland. Leyland Parish News January 1916 reads; "Private Charlie Blackhurst. 4th Battalion Scottish Rifles. Scouts Roll of Honour: Scout of the 1st Leyland Troop. Killed in action at the Battle of Loos." HQ Gazette February 1916, pg 33. Enlisted at same time of his fellow scout Harry Dawber - his service number his directly after Dawber's Born and lived in LEYLAND.
Sapper John Morley Blackhurst. Died 18 February 1919
#WR/205113, Royal Engineers     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Leyland (St. Andrews) Churchyard, Lancashire, United Kingdom. Panel or Grave Reference: 5.367.     ​
Notes: John Morley Blackhurst was the brother of Charles Sago Blackhurst above. Born to William and Celia Blackhurst (nee Sago) in Leyland. Initial clue to name came from Medal Rolls, then cross referenced against Bill Waring's original work with the St.Andrew's Parish Registers. Born and lived in LEYLAND.
Private Jonathan Blackhurst. Killed in action 10 April 1918 aged 36
#203012, 9th (Service) Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Croix-Du-Bac British Cemetery, Steenwerck, Nord, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Sp. Mem. A.8. Additional Information: Son of George and the late Margaret Blackhurst, of "Brooklands," Marsh Lane, Longton, Preston, Lancs; husband of Dorothy Blackhurst, of "The Nook," Nook Lane, Hutton, Lancs. Inscription: "UNTIL THE DAY BREAK".     ​
Notes: Jonathan's service record shows that he was living on Marsh Lane in Longton when he signed up. He was also born in Longton - baptismal register found. ​Born and lived in LONGTON.
Sergeant Arthur Bleasdale. Killed in action 25 May 1915 aged 42
#11214, 2nd Battalion, Cheshire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: La Brique Military Cemetery No.2, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: I.F.1.   ​
Notes: Arthur was born in Lostock Hall and was living in Oldham in 1911 with his wife Emily and their young daughter Hilda. Enlisted at Stockport. Born in LOSTOCK HALL and lived in OLDHAM.
Private Fred Blundell. Killed in action 25 April 1915 aged 24
#2010, 1st Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Helles Memorial, Turkey (Inc. Gallipoli). Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 58 to 72 or 218 to 219. Additional Information: Son of Thomas and Ann Blundell, of 24, Herbert St., Leyland, Lancs.     ​
Notes: Born and lived in LEYLAND. 
Guardsman Victor Blundell. Died of wounds 11 December 1917 aged 30
#10188, 1st Battalion, Scots Guards     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Etaples Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: XXXI.C.11A. Additional Information: Son of Robert and Martha Ellen Blundell, of Leyland, Lancs. Native of Leyland. Inscription: "TO MEMORY EVER DEAR".  
Notes: Born and lived in LEYLAND. ​
Private William Rowland Boast. Killed in action 15 November 1915
#19, 1/4th Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Aveluy Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: A.29.     ​
Notes: Born in LEYLAND and lived in PRESTON.
Private Fred Bolton. Died of wounds 1 September 1916 aged 18
#18125, 12th (Service) Battalion, King's (Liverpool Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Corbie Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: II.B.41. Additional Information: Son of Thomas and Ann E. Bolton, of 86, Mill Street. Farington, Preston. Lancashire. Inscription: "HE SAVED OTHERS BUT HIMSELF HE COULD NOT SAVE".    ​
Notes: Fred's brother Thomas also served. Born and lived in FARINGTON. 
Private Benjamin Booth. Died 30 July 1917
#25448, 9th (Service) Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Salonika (Lembet Road) Military Cemetery, Greece. Panel or Grave Reference: 1112.     ​
Notes: Benjamin was born and was christened in Bamber Bridge when his parents lived in the area. They then moved east to Accrington. Original clue came from Soldiers Died in the Great War record which said he was born in Walton-le-Dale. Born in BAMBER BRIDGE and lived in ACCRINGTON.
Private Frank Bowling. Killed in action 20 February 1918 aged 21
#45741, 71st Machine Gun Company, Machine Gun Corps     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Metz-En-Couture Communal Cemetery British Extension, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: II.G.1. Additional Information: Son of Thomas and Mary Bowling, of 43, Union St., Leyland, Preston, Lancs. Inscription: "TOO DEARLY LOVED TO BE FORGOTTEN".     ​
Notes: Frank was born in Leyland and his service record confirms that he was living in Union Street, Leyland at the time of his attestation. Note that the CWGC gives his service number as 45471 - this is incorrect as his attestation and all other military records show 45741. Born and lived in LEYLAND. 
Private Percy Boydell. Killed in action 10 April 1918
#243313, 9th (Service) Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Croix-Du-Bac British Cemetery, Steenwerck, Nord, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Sp. Mem. A.6. Inscription: "THEIR GLORY SHALL NOT BE BLOTTED OUT".    ​
Notes: Born Percy Watmough to Eleanor Watmough in Wigan, domestic servant. Eleanor later married Joshua Boydell and they moved to the Ulnes Walton area. I have relied upon Bill Waring's work amongst the electoral rolls to provide residence details - this confirms home address as 23 Dunkirk Lane, Leyland in 1918. Born in WIGAN and lived in LEYLAND. 
Private (Bugler) Frank Bradley. Died of wounds 4 August 1917 aged 19
#203936, 1/5th Battalion, King's (Liverpool Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Mont Huon Military Cemetery, Le Treport, Seine-Maritime, France. Panel or Grave Reference: III.A.5A. Additional Information: Son of F. and Mary Bradley, of 7, Prospect View, Lostock Hall, Preston. Native of Wigan. Inscription: "A SORROW TOO DEEP FOR HE IS NOT DEAD BUT SLEEPETH".
Notes: Frank was born in PEMBERTON and in 1911 was living on Carrington Terrace in LOSTOCK HALL. 
Sergeant John Bradley. Killed in action 22 April 1918 aged 37
#5992, 12th (Service) Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Doiran Memorial, Greece. Additional Information: Son of John and Mary Bradley, of Lostock Hall, Lancs; Husband of Elizabeth Henrietta Bradley, of 6, Grant St., Accrington, Lancs.     ​
Notes: John was born in Lostock Hall. He was living on Turpin Green Lane in Leyland in 1911 and at the time he enlisted. Brother in law of Harry Cardwell via his wife Bessie Cardwell. Born in LOSTOCK HALL and lived in LEYLAND.
Private John Bradley. Killed in action 9 April 1918
#48260, 2/5th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers    
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Loos Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 45 and 46.    ​
Notes: John was the brother of Richard Bradley below. Some sources say that he was born in Cuerden, and others state Lostock hall, but the family lived on school lane just off Lostock Lane in 1881, so it is likely he was born there. Moved over to Accrington. Born CUERDEN and lived in ACCRINGTON.
Private Richard Bradley. Died 15 August 1916 aged 25
#3022, 4th Battalion, Australian Infantry, AIF     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Villers-Bretonneux Memorial, Somme, France. Additional Information: Son of John and Mary Bradley; husband of Monica Bradley, of Lombard St., Balgowlah, Manly, Sydney. Born at Lostock Hall, England.     ​
Notes: Richard was the brother of John Bradley. He was born in Lostock Hall and moved to Scone, New South Wales after 1911. He married Mary Monica Eller - most probably in the UK before his move. Was living at Scone when he enlisted. Born in LOSTOCK HALL and lived at SCONE, NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA.
Private Alfred Bradshaw. Killed in action 24 March 1918 aged 27
#L/18293, B Battery, CLXX (170) Brigade, Royal Field Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Bay 1. Additional Information: Son of James and Lucy E. Bradshaw, of 23 Station Road, Bamber Bridge, Preston, Lancs.     ​
Notes: Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Private James Bradshaw. Killed in action 10 June 1917 aged 20
#242200, 2/5th Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Gorre British And Indian Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: IV.D.4. Additional Information: Son of James and Harriet Bradshaw, of 4, Havelock Terrace, Bamber Bridge, Preston. Inscription: "PEACE PERFECT PEACE".
Notes: James's brothers Alfred and Amos also served and cousin Alfred Bradshaw was a stoker in the Royal Navy. Born in Bamber Bridge and lived on Havelock Terrace in Bamber Bridge. Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Gunner Robert Braithwaite. Killed in action 1 August 1916 aged 30
#69942, 116th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Dantzig Alley British Cemetery, Mametz, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: IV.S.2. Additional Information: Son of Mrs. Braithwaite, of 4, Turpin Green, Leyland, Lancs. Inscription: "THY WILL BE DONE".     
Notes: Born and lived in LEYLAND.​ 
Private Robert Breakell. Killed in action 31 July 1917
#203145, 1/4th Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: New Irish Farm Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: IV.A.15.     ​
Notes: Robert was born in Preston. His service record and Soldiers Died in the Great War shows that he was living at Longton Bridge and in 1911 he lived on Chapel Lane in Longton. Born and lived in LONGTON.
Air Mechanic 1st Class Jack Bretherton. Died 30 December 1917
#16851, Royal Flying Corps     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Chatby Memorial, Egypt.     ​
Notes: The RAF Muster Roll shows that Jack's trade was carpenter and that he joined on 23 December 1915. His last promotion was on the 1 August 1916 and he was paid 4 Shillings. RFC service record now held. This confirms that he lived at Moss Lane in Leyland. Born and lived in LEYLAND. 
Private John Brewer MM & Bar. Died of wounds 4 June 1918
#17490, 1st Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Pernes British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: II.F.11.    ​
Notes: Born in BAMBER BRIDGE and lived in PRESTON.
Private Albert Brierley. Killed in action 22 July 1917 aged 29
#203593, 10th (Service) Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Torreken Farm Cemetery No.1, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: B.6. Additional Information: Son of Thomas and Sarah Brierley, of Walton-le-Dale, Preston, Lancs; husband of Gladys Brierley, of Station Rd., Great Longstone, Bakewell, Derbyshire. Inscription: "THY WILL BE DONE".     ​
Notes: Born in Walton-le-Dale and his attestation record shows that he was living at 118 Victoria Road, Walton-le-Dale when he joined up. His brother Burdett Barrett Brierley served in the Military Mounted Police. Born and lived in WALTON-LE-DALE.
Gunner John Brierley. Died 17 April 1919 aged 29
#680852, 21st Battery, II (2) Brigade, Royal Field Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Cologne Southern Cemetery, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. Panel or Grave Reference: IX.A.9. Additional Information: Husband of Mary Anne Brierley, of 1, James St., Bamber Bridge, Preston. Inscription: "HAVE MERCY UPON HIM LORD AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON HIM".
Notes: Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Corporal Matthew Brierley. Died of wounds 11 August 1918 aged 23
#7963, 1st Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Pernes British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: III.B.32.     ​
Notes: Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Private Fred Norris Briggs. Killed in action 8 August 1916 aged 23
#201005, 1st/4th Battalion, King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Pier and Face 5D and 12B.     ​
Notes: Born and lived in WALTON-LE-DALE.
Gunner Richard Briggs. Killed in action 7 August 1917 aged 19
#123696, 297th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Dickebusch New Military Cemetery Extension, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: II.G.11. Additional Information: Son of Elizabeth Ellen Forshaw, of 21, Walmer Cottages, Gill Lane, Longton, Preston. Inscription: "AT REST".     ​
Notes: Richard lived most of his life with his grandparents. His mother lived down the road with her husband James Forshaw (not Richards' father). All other records including baptismal register shows he was born at Little Hoole. Born and lived at LITTLE HOOLE.
Private Robert Briggs. Killed in action 25 September 1915 aged 39
#2211, 2nd Battalion, The Prince of Wales's Volunteers (South Lancashire Regiment)
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 37. Additional Information: Son of the late Robert and Alice Briggs. 
Notes: Robert's nephews through his brother Walter - Percy Briggs, Archie Browning Briggs & Eric Alan Briggs all served. His brother Cornelius Arthur Briggs served in South Africa with Robert. He was living in Penwortham at the time that he re-signed on. Born at Withnell. Born in WITHNELL and lived in PENWORTHAM.
Private Albert Brindle. Died of wounds 20 September 1918
#34853, 9th (Service) Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Sarigol Military Cemetery, Kriston, Greece. Panel or Grave Reference: B.306.     ​
Notes: Born in CHORLEY and lived in LEYLAND. 
Private Francis Brindle. Killed in action 2 July 1916 aged 20
#15159, 11th (Service) Battalion (Accrington), East Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Pier and Face 6C. Additional Information: Son of Robert and Emma Brindle, of II, Froom St., Chorley. Lancs.     ​
Notes: Francis's brother William (born and lived in Chorley) also served and died of disease 1 December 1918 at the Etaples field hospital. Francis seems to have spent most of his life in the Chorley area and all records agree born that he was born in Bamber Bridge. The service number on CWGC shows as 15359 - this is incorrect - all other documents including SDGW, Register of Soldier's Effects and the Pension Cards (available via the Western Front Association) say 15159. Born in BAMBER BRIDGE and lived in CHORLEY.
Private Robert Brindle. Died 15/10/1918 aged 33
35324, 2nd Garrison Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Delhi Memorial (India Gate), India. Panel or Grave Reference: Face 1. Additional Information: (Buried Karachi Cem. A/E. B.8.).    Notes: Born in CHORLEY and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Private John Brogan. Died 21 September 1915
#3482, 3rd Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Walton-le-Dale (Our Lady and St. Patrick) R.C. Churchyard, Lancashire, United Kingdom. Panel or Grave Reference: B.19.     ​
Notes: The census returns (with the exception of 1911) says Walton-le-Dale for John's birth as does his service record and Soldiers Died in the Great War. Service record confirms he was LNL 3rd Bn, then Cheshire Regt. 1st Garrison Bn, then back to LNL 3rd Bn. Saw only brief service abroad and died at the Royal Infirmary in Preston. He had been suffering from Rheumatic Fever and problems with his chest, possibly asthma and in despair cut his own throat - although medical reports state that this was not cause of death and that he was dying already when he took the action. John was suffering with a blood clot in his heart. Born in WALTON-LE-DALE and lived in HIGHER WALTON.
​Private Benjamin Brown. Killed in action 4 June 1915 aged 27
#2517, 1/8th (Ardwick) Battalion, Manchester Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Helles Memorial, Turkey (inc. Gallipoli). Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 158 to 170. Additional Information: Husband of Mrs. E. Brown, of 28, Mill St., Farington, Preston.
Notes: Born in LEYLAND and lived in MANCHESTER. 
Private Robert Brown. Killed on action 23 October 1917
#9808, 20th (Service) Battalion (4th Salford), Lancashire Fusiliers     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Poelcapelle British Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: IX.C.7.     ​
Notes: The Farington Garden Memorial gives different service number 28708 - this is incorrect - they have confused this Robert Brown with a soldier from the Lancashire Fusiliers in Manchester - he also wasn't 19, he was about 39. Married Margery Bamber of Penwortham in 1900. Born in FARINGTON and lived in LOSTOCK HALL. 
Driver William Henry Brown. Killed in action 24 September 1918 aged 25
#680288, A Battery, XXVI (26) Brigade, Royal Field Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Vis-en-Artois Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 3 and 4. Additional Information: Husband of Hetty Livesey (formerly Brown), of 99, Victoria Rd., Walton-le-Dale, Preston.     ​
​Notes: William is listed as Gunner on the Penwortham Civic Memorial. William is mentioned in the Penwortham Parish News in November 1918 as Harry Brown and he was married to Hetty Latham from Walton-le-Dale, so it is likely he was living in the Walton-le-Dale area at the time of joining up. Born in LANCASTER and lived in WALTON-LE-DALE.
Private Henry Brundrett. Killed in action 21 March 1918 aged 20
#12787, 9th (Service) Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Bay 7. Additional Information: Son of Elizabeth Brundrett, of 25, Fairfield St., Lostock Hall, Preston, Lancs, and the late John Brundrett.     ​
Notes: Also known as Harry Brundrett. LCC Red Rose Collections has a citation from the Preston Guardian dated 20 April 1918 that gives James Knights next of kin as above, but living at Station Road, Bamber Bridge. Born and lived in LOSTOCK HALL. 
Guardsman Fred Buck. Killed in action 16 May 1915 aged 22
#10646, 2nd Battalion, Scots Guards     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Le Touret Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 3 and 4. Additional Information: Son of George and Elizabeth Buck, of 10, South View, Lostock Hall, Preston.     ​
​Notes: Brother of George & James Buck. Born in CUERDEN and lived in LOSTOCK HALL.
Guardsman George Buck. Died of wounds 4 November 1917
#10647, 1st Battalion, Scots Guards     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Etaples Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: XXX.J.10A.     ​
​Notes: Brother of Fred & James Buck. Born in CUERDEN and lived in LOSTOCK HALL.
Gunner James Buck. Died of wounds 5 June 1917 aged 32
#334654, 353rd Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Berks Cemetery Extension, Hainaut, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: II.D.58.   ​
​Notes: Brother of Fred & George Buck. Born in LONGTON and lived in LOSTOCK HALL.
Sergeant Robert Buck. Killed in action 7 July 1916
#15327, 9th (Service) Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Pier and Face 11A.     ​
Notes: Robert was possibly a distant relative of the Lostock Hall Bucks as they originated in the Hoole / Longton region too. Born in LONGTON and living in PRESTON at the time of his attestation. 
Gunner Joseph Alfred Burscough. Died 26 July 1916 aged 19
#L/13699, D Battery, CCLVI (256) Brigade, Royal Field Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Flatiron Copse Cemetery, Mametz, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: I.C.21. Additional Information: Son of Matthew and Mary Burscough, of 251, Hoghton Lane, Preston, Lancs.  ​
​Notes: The 'L' at the start of the service number denotes a local enlistment for RFA batteries. Lived on The Straits in Hoghton which is outside SR Boundary. Born in HIGHER WALTON or WALTON-LE-DALE and lived in HOGHTON.
Gunner Frank Gordon Butcher. Died of wounds 2 August 1917 aged 26
#98322, 146th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Henin Communal Cemetery Extension, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: II.B.4.     
Notes: Born in LEYLAND and lived in OPENSHAW. 
Driver John Cafferty. Died 10 February 1915 aged 19 (CWGC official age), actual age 15
#T/36219, No.1 Company, Royal Army Service Corps     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Aldershot Military Cemetery, Hampshire, United Kingdom. Panel or Grave Reference: R.301. Additional Information: Son of Michael and Mary Cafferty, of 14, Gillibrand St., Walton-le-Dale, Preston, Lancs. Inscription: "WITH FOND LOVING MEMORY FROM FATHER, MOTHER & SISTERS MARY, ELLEN & BRIDGET".
Notes: In the Preston Guardian article 'War Records of the Local Towns', John's name is given as 'Caffetie'. The St. Patrick's Memorial  in Walton-le-Dale says that he died 5 February 1915, however the Commonwealth War Graves Commission clearly states 10 February 1915 which is the date used here. It is clear from the snippets of information found on some service record documents that John enlisted under age and was discharged to 'Home Defence' after 10 days in service. The 1911 census showed his age as 11 - therefore he must have attested when he was 15 years old and was found out shortly afterwards. Little is known about his death in camp at Aldershot. I visited his resting place in Aldershot in February 2018, 103 years after his death. John was born in KIRKHAM and lived in Gillibrand Street, BAMBER BRIDGE. The T prefix to service number means Territorial.
Private Thomas Callaghan. Killed in action 12 April 1918
#235246, 1st Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Ploegsteert Memorial, Hainaut, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 4.   ​
Notes: Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Private Joseph Campbell. Died of wounds 7 November 1918 aged 27
#7893, Machine Gun Corps       ​
Notes: Born and lived in LEYLAND.
Gunner Thomas Cuthbert Cank. Died 24 January 1917 aged 20
#116532, B Battery, 188 Brigade, Royal Field Artillery     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: St.Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen, Seine-Maritime, France. Panel or Grave Reference: O.IV.D.9. Additional Information: Only son of John and Louise Isabel Cank, of 7, Balderstone Rd., Preston, Lancs. Inscription: "LEST WE FORGET".    ​
Notes: In his research, Bill Waring does not include the Balshaws School memorial in his list of monuments, yet Thomas's name appears on this. The St.Paul's memorial on Farington Moss shows rank his rank as 'Private'. Born in LEYLAND and lived in FARINGTON. 
Private Harry Cardwell. Killed in action 9 March 1917
#23131, 6th (Service) Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Basra Memorial, Iraq. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 27.    ​
Notes: His brother-in-law was John Bradley via sister Bessie Cardwell. Born and lived in LEYLAND. 
Corporal Ernest Carline. Killed in action 20 September 1917 aged 32
#241781, 1/6th Battalion (Rifles), King's (Liverpool Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Tyne Cot Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 31 to 34 and 162 and 162A and 163A. Additional Information: Son of John and Margaret Carline, of 66, Garrick St., Smithdown Rd., Liverpool.     ​
Notes: A probate record confirmed Ernest was living at 7 Chapel-brow in Leyland at time of death, as follows: "CARLINE Ernest of 7 Chapel-brow Leyland Lancashire corporal 6th Liverpool regiment died 20 September 1917 in France killed in action Administration (with Will) Lancaster 8 February to Herbert Carline fish merchant's salesman. Effects £175 6s. 8d." The family originated in Liverpool, the older children having been born there. Born in LIVERPOOL and lived in LEYLAND. 
Private William Carlton. Died of wounds 4 May 1917 aged 24
#37401, 18th (Labour) Battalion, Cheshire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: St. Nicolas British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: I.E.29. Additional Information: Son of William and Ellen Carlton, of 37, East St., Farington, Leyland, Preston. Inscription: "LOVED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM".
Notes: William was living at 37 East Street, LEYLAND at Attestation and was born in FARINGTON. 
Private James Garstang Carnson. Killed in action 22 April 1916
#S/4235, 2nd Battalion, Royal Highlanders (Black Watch)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Basra Memorial, Iraq. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 25 and 63.   ​
Notes: A probate record for James reads: "CARNSON James Garstang of Oakleigh Chapel-lane New Longton Lancashire private Black Watch regiment died 22 April 1916 in Mesopotamia Probate Lancaster 5 July to Andrew Thomas Carnson gentleman. Effects £93 4s. 8d." S prefix on service number means "General Service". Born in DARWEN and lived in NEW LONGTON.
Private James Carr. Died of wounds 5 September 1916 aged 19
#18105, 61st Brigade, King's (Liverpool Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Dartmoor Cemetery, Becordel-Becourt, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: I.A.30. Additional Information: Son of James and Dorothy Carr, of 17, King St., Lostock Hall, Preston, Lancs. Native of New Longton, Preston. Inscription: "GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN HE DIED SAVING OTHERS".     ​
Notes: James's brother Sam Carr also served as #159867 in the Royal Field Artillery. The family moved from Manchester and Sam was born there, but James was born in LONGTON. He was living in LOSTOCK HALL when he attested, probably underage. 
Private James Carr. Killed in action 16 August 1916
#242306, 1/5th Battalion, King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Pier and Face 5D and 12B.     ​
​Notes: James was the uncle of 10687 Thomas Carr below. Born and lived in LEYLAND. 
Lance Corporal Thomas Carr. Died 30/9/1915 aged 20
#10687, 1st Battalion, Scots Guards     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Bethune Town Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: IV.E.62. Additional Information: Son of Zacharias and Agnes Carr, of "Lansdowne House," Dunkirk Lanes, Leyland, Preston, Lancs. Inscription: "UNTIL THE DAY DAWNS AND THE SHADOWS FLEE AWAY".
Notes: Thomas was the Nephew of #242306 James Carr above. The Register of Soldiers Effects shows credits of £4 15s. 9d., authorised 6 December 1915 to mother Agnes and £0 2s. 2d., authorised 27 December 1915 to same. A War Gratuity of £3 10s. 0d. was authorised 9 July 1919 and paid to Agnes. Born and lived in LEYLAND. 
Private William Carr. Killed in action 1 July 1916 aged 22
#13210, 1st Battalion, King's Own Scottish Borderers     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: Pier and Face 4A and 4D. Additional Information: Son of Silvester and Catherine Carr, of 419, Bolton Rd., Blackburn.     ​
Notes: William's brother Robert was also born in Bamber Bridge and served as #203512, Border Regiment. William attested when the family had moved to Barrow-in-Furness. Born in BAMBER BRIDGE and spent most of his life in BLACKBURN. 
Lance Corporal James Caton. Killed in action 28 June 1916 aged 28
#42, 1/4th Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Le Fermont Military Cemetery, Riviere, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: II.C.3.
Additional Information: Son of William and Jane Caton, of 3, St. Mary's Rd., Bamber Bridge, Preston.
Inscription: "FOR KING, COUNTRY LIBERTY AND TRUTH HE SACRIFICED HIS GLORIOUS YOUTH".
Notes: James was baptized at St. Saviour's, Manchester Road, PRESTON and census entries also give the same birthplace. He has put on the attestation record St. Saviour's in Bamber Bridge, but I believe he was mistaken as the family moved to Bamber Bridge, perhaps he was under the impression he was baptised at that church in Bamber Bridge. Living on St.Mary's Road, BAMBER BRIDGE at attestation. ​
Private Fred Catterall. Killed in action 12 January 1917 aged 23 
#26779, 1st Battalion, King’s Shropshire Light Infantry     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Vermelles British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: V.E.40. Additional Information: Son of James and Ellen Catterall, of 46, Cooper St., Nelson, Lancs. ​Inscription: "OURS AND MEMORY THOUGHT AND LOVE".
Notes: Born in FARINGTON and lived in NELSON. 
Lance Corporal James Henry Catterall. Killed in action 16 September 1916
#19322, 12th (Service) Battalion, King's (Liverpool Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: London Cemetery and Extension, Longueval, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: 9.H.11.     ​
Notes: James was initially put down as James Richard Catterall as Richard is the middle name he was christened with. After looking through the full family tree again and taking a couple of cues from Bill Brierley, we have changed to James Henry Catterall. He has been positively identified through a newspaper article transcribed by Bill that shows Grace Catterall as his sister. Then tracing Grace in the 1911 Census shows that the family lived at Bretherton Terrace in 1911 as in the newspaper report of his death. He was known as James Henry throughout his life. Born and lived in LEYLAND. 
Private Victor Catterall. Died 13 April 1920 aged 22
#203939, 12th (Service) Battalion, King's (Liverpool Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Bamber Bridge (St. Saviour) Churchyard, Lancashire, United Kingdom. Panel or Grave Reference: North-West of Church. Additional Information: Son of Edmund and Agnes Catterall, of 264, Station Rd., Bamber Bridge.     ​
Notes: In 1911 Victor was living at 324 Station Road, Bamber Bridge with his grandmother Mary Ann Catterall (70) who was a widow born in Clayton-le-Woods, his father Edmund, son of Mary (36), a boiler plate maker for a boiler manufacturer and born in Leyland and his mother Agnes Catterall (39) who was a Cotton Rover / Cardroom hand born in Preston. Edmund and Agnes had been married 13 years and 3 of their 4 children had survived. Victor also had two siblings at home, Herbert (11), a scholar born in Bamber Bridge and Edmund (2). Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Private George Caunce. Killed in action 2 November 1918 aged 22
#64919, 16th (Service) Battalion (2nd Salford), Lancashire Fusiliers     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Ors British Cemetery, Nord, France. Panel or Grave Reference: C.24. Additional Information: Son of Richard and Anne Caunce, of Smithy Houses, Sollom, Tarleton, Preston. Inscription: "CHRIST SHALL CLASP THE BROKEN CHAIN CLOSER WHEN WE MEET AGAIN".
Notes: Born in LONGTON and lived in TARLETON
Private John Moran Cavanagh. Died 4 November 1918 aged 42
#268398, Labour Corps. Formerly #11031 Loyal North Lancashire Regiment.
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Walton-Le-Dale (St. Patrick) R.C. Churchyard, Lancashire, United Kingdom. Panel or Grave Reference: E.2. Additional Information: Husband of Sarah Alice Cavanagh, of 32, Fitzgerald St., Preston.     ​​
Notes: On the new slate boards at St. Patrick's War Memorial in Walton-le-Dale, John's name is spelled 'Kavanagh'. There are no records civil or military that have this spelling. It is therefore unknown how this spelling was arrived at. John died of tuberculosis. He was discharged with this disease earlier in 1918 for treatment at a sanitorium. He was born in Warrington and before his Army service he was a sailor in the Royal Navy. He lived in Bamber Bridge in 1891 with his sister and her new in-laws - this is the only time I can place him there. He was living with his first wife Catherine at Bournes Row, Brindle in 1911 (this is probable connection with St. Patrick's, although St. Joseph's, Brindle is nearer). This location is just outside the South Ribble boundaries. After this he lived in Preston with his second wife Sarah Alice Friars. Born in WARRINGTON and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Private Alfred Chamberlain. Killed in action 12 May 1916 aged 34 (CWGC). Actual age 37.
#15088, 24th (Service) Battalion (Oldham), Manchester Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Citadel New Military Cemetery, Fricourt, Somme, France. Panel or Grave Reference: II.A.15. Additional Information: Son of Christopher and Elizabeth Chamberlain, of 7, Newsome St., Leyland, Preston, Lancs. Inscription: "HE DIED THAT WE MIGHT LIVE".     ​
Notes: Alfred's age at death is not 34 as stated on his Commonwealth War Graves Record. He was born and baptised in 1879 at FARINGTON and was living in LEYLAND at enlistment according to Soldiers Died in the Great War. 
Private Jackson Chapman. Died 12 December 1917 aged 39
#44524, 75th Company, Labour Corps     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Duhallow A.D.S. Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel or Grave Reference: III.D.6. Additional Information: Son of Jane Winder, of 152, Eaves Lane, Chorley, Lancs. Inscription: "THY WILL BE DONE FROM MOTHER & SISTER".     ​
Notes: Jackson died of carbon monoxide poisoning. Soldiers Died in the Great War shows his surname as 'Winder'. He was born to Jane Chapman who then later married Mark Winder. Born in BROUGH, WESTMORLAND and lived in LEYLAND. 
Private John Charnley. Died of wounds 19 October 1917 aged 20
#23804, 6th (Service) Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Basra Memorial, Iraq. Panel or Grave Reference: Panel 27. Additional Information: Son of Mary Alice Charnley, of 8, Ward's New Row, Lostock Hall, Preston, Lancs., and the late William Charnley.    ​
Notes: John's brother George served in the Scots Guards. Born in Farington and lived in LOSTOCK HALL.
Lance Sergeant Ralph Cheetham. Killed in action 12 July 1918 aged 24
#13174, 2nd Battalion, Scots Guards     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Berles New Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Panel or Grave Reference: III.C.6. Additional Information: Son of James William and Ellen Cheetham, of 22, Dewhursts Row, Bamber Bridge, Preston, Lancs. Inscription: "THY WILL BE DONE".
Notes: Ralph lived on Dewhurst Row, Cuerden and was probably born in this general area as well. 1911 Census shows born in Cuerden as does 1901. Cuerden is treated as part of South Ribble for these purposes, as it covers an area between Bamber Bridge and Lostock Hall along Lostock Lane, not that part of Cuerden which is in Chorley borough. Born and lived in CUERDEN.
Rifleman Joseph Chester. Died 17 June 1919 aged 34
#305716, 1/6th Battalion (Rifles), King's (Liverpool Regiment)     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Preston (New Hall Lane) Cemetery, Lancashire, United Kingdom. Panel or Grave Reference: D.RC.521. Additional Information: Husband of Lydia May Chester, of 5, Ribble Crescent, Walton-le-Dale, Preston.    ​
Notes: Joseph lived at 5 Ribble Terrace, Walton-le-Dale when he attested and all records show that he was born in Preston. The service record shows that he was tried for desertion and sentenced to 12 months Imprisonment with Hard Labour, which was later commuted due to 'impeccable behaviour'. Brother John George Chester also served in the Royal Engineers and he was discharged with 'Melancholia' - i.e. depression. Born in PRESTON and lived in WALTON-LE-DALE.
Able Seaman Cyril Clarkson. Died 14 June 1920 aged 20
#J/83539, H.M.S. Minotaur, Royal Navy     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: ​Bamber Bridge (St. Saviour) Churchyard, Lancashire, United Kingdom. Panel or Grave Reference: North-West of Church. Additional Information: Son of Henry and Mary Jane Clarkson, of 15, Mounsey Rd., Bamber Bridge. Inscription: "AT REST".
Notes: "J" on the service number denotes long service seaman / communications (signed on for 12 years or more). Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Private Robert Henry Clarkson. Died 15 May 1919
#M2/193451, Advanced M. T. Depot, Royal Army Service Corps     
Commonwealth War Graves Information: Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery, Iraq. Panel or Grave Reference: VII.D.10.     ​
Notes: M2 as part of service number denotes Mechanical Transport, Army Service Corps. Born and lived in BAMBER BRIDGE.
Preston & Central Lancashire WFA
© Preston & Central Lancashire Western Front Association 2020
The WFA was formed in 1980 to maintain interest in the First World War (1914-1918). We work to perpetuate the memory, courage and comradeship of all, from all sides, on all Fronts: on land, at sea, in the air and on the Home Front. The WFA is non-political and does not seek to glorify war.