I'm myself was born and lived in Oldham in greater Manchester, although as far as I'm aware Michael is not related to me however we share the same surname. I have visited France several times over the last few years, to pursue my interest of Fishing, however this being the hundred year anniversary I felt impelled to pay my respects to the fallen of the First World War. I found Michael's details on one of the various websites available. I chose Michael not only because he had my surname but his Street still existed although unfortunately his house had long gone. I decided to go up to the street and take a small tin of soil and take it to France with me, has Michael is obviously not had contact with English soil since he was killed on that fateful day. I paid my respects to Michael and scattered the soil at his graveside. Michael was laid to rest in a beautiful little cemetery, down a little dirt track, it is slightly on the hillside and has beautiful views of the surrounding area. It is impossible to imagine the horrors that would have taken place in the area nearly 100 years ago. Rest in peace Michael, lest we never forget all the brave souls that fought for our freedom. Tony Connolly

Tony Connolly