In early 1915 more than 300 young men from Bolton volunteered and joined the 15th Battalion The Welch Regiment (The Carmarthenshires).

They went by train to Kinmel Camp near Rhyl in North Wales, and after training, to France.

My grandfather 20304 Pte Richard Lofthouse was one of these men. He survived the war and resumed his trade as a clogger in Emmanuel Street, Bolton.

Tel: 01524 822419.

harry@learnrite.fsnet.co.uk