Albert Edward's Story.
“W” Coy, 15Bn Cheshire Regiment.
The Battalion was raised in Birkenhead by Alfred Bigland MP as a ‘Bantam’ regiment. It was posted to France in January 1916, where it became part of 105 Brigade, 35th Division, and remained for the duration. The 15th Battalion were in the Ypres Salient when the German Spring offensive began on the Somme, and after a forced march, were thrown straight into the action with a spirited counter-attack on the 24th March, against the higher ground known as Clery Ridge, which they recaptured, suffering serious casualties. The Germans attacked again, and Z and X Companies of the 15th, though completely surrounded, held up the German advance all day. The following day, despite heavy fighting, the 15th held its ground, but eventually received orders to retire to the Bray-Meaulte road, where they were again attacked suffering heavy loss. The Battalion lost 3 officers and 52 others killed, and 15 officers and 385 others wounded or missing during this period.
Died aged 35 on 26th March 1918.
Born in Ireland, the son of Edward and Margaret Hargrove of 132 St Anne Street, Chester. Brother to Robert, Mary, Margaret, Edward, Thomas, William, Ruth and Catherine.
He is buried at Beacon Cemetery, Sailly-Laurette.
Made Freeman of Chester on 7th July 1906 by indenture.
Cheshire County Memorial Project would like to thank Chris Pate for this information on Albert.