The flag is flying at half mast at Parr Conservative Club (No 2), in memory of  Serjt John Taylor reported as killed in action on 1 July 1916, 19 years of age.  He enlisted in September 1915 and was previously employed as a miner.  John was well known as a member of Parr St Peter’s football club.  His parents have received the following letter:

7 July 1916

Dear Mrs Taylor with deep regret I write to inform you that Sergt J Taylor lost his life on 1 July in an attack by us on the German line.  He is reported as “killed”.

I knew him very well for many weeks, he came to me as a candidate in preparation for confirmation, the xxxxx to have taken place today.  He will have his confirmation in another word.

He was a splendid fellow clean and trim and brave and always friendly and I shall miss him greatly, as you all do.  I feel so sure that all is very well with him.  He has left us an example that we may well try to ?maintain?  For you the loss is very great.  May god help you to bear it. I have no details as yet of his death; if I get any I will write again.  Please accept my deep sympathy.   Xxxx    xxxx     xxxx   sorrow for the loss of a friend    C MAYER CF

article St Helens Rolls of Honour/St Helens Reporter

St Helens Rolls of Honour from St Helens Reporter

Wendy Hill