I was born at 15 Ashcroft St Bootle, Lancashire and baptised 15th July in St Marys Church. I am the only son, and eldest child, of William and Elizabeth. My sisters are Mary, Elizabeth, and Violet. In 1911 I registered in the Census as being a carter, general carrier. I worked mostly at the docks for the P.S.N. Co.. When not at work I was a member of the Marsh Lane PSA Brotherhood and, being a trumpeter, also a member of Colonel Sandys Prize Band. I joined the RFA in September 1914 and posted to the front on 14th July 1915.

christine hollingsworth