Irlam & Cadishead The Great War .....NEW BOOK

'After many years of research by Neil Drum and Pete Thomas a book telling the story of Irlam & Cadishead's part in the 'Great War' is soon to be published.

This book tells the story of nearly 1,000 men from the district who served in the Armed Forces during 1914-1918, many returned psychologically and physically scarred and 170 are known to have lost their lives. It is timely that we remember the sacrifices made as, with the death of the last 3 First World War veterans living in the UK this year, the living link with that generation has now passed. 

Furthermore the tragic death of Cadishead soldier, Simon Annis, who was killed in action in Afghanistan in August this year, reminds us all that many from the district continue to serve their country today and the need to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and those service personnel who return scarred, mentally and physically, from their service.

The book is crammed with information on those who gave their lives but also those who served and returned, won awards, were captured and wounded, as well as covering the part played by those at home supporting the war effort. There are numerous stories of devotion to duty, bravery, honour and sacrifice, none more tragic than Mr. and Mrs. Mears, of Cadishead, who lost their 3 sons in France within 12 months. It is well illustrated with hundreds of photographs. The authors are proud that the book, with the support of the Hamilton Davies Trust, will soon become a reality.

The authors make a final appeal to anyone with information or photographs on local men who served in the First World War to get in touch. They are also currently researching Irlam & Cadishead's part in the Second World War 1939-45, which cost the district a further 104 lives, and are keen to hear from anyone, and importantly veterans and residents who lived through those times, who would be willing to help with any information.'

 

Pictured........... Mears Brothers    Stanley, just 22 when he was killed in action 14th July 1916 and 4 days later his brother,  25 year old Thomas died of wounds on the 18th July 1916. The third brother, 34 year old John was killed in action on 4th June 1917.

Contact Neil Drum
07734 9245845

drum.n @ sky.com (no spaces)