Born in Chorley on the 17th April 1893, being a twin and one of eight children of Alfred and Elizabeth Ann (nee Robinson). Enlisted on the 21st September 1914, going with the Pals Company to Caernarvon in 1915 and serving in Egypt and on the Somme in France during 1916; not known if he was at Serre on the 1st July 1916. Records show he transferred to the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment at sometime during the war, being given the number of 58205.