Appeal for relatives of Private William Brierley

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) is appealing for relatives of Rochdale soldier Private William Brierley, who will soon be commemorated for the first time by the organisation.

Private William Brierley was only 24-years-old when he died on 11 March 1920. He is buried at Rochdale Cemetery and was part of the 475th Home Service Coy, Labour Corps. He would have died back in the UK from either illness or wounds sustained during his active service in the First World War.

William was the son of John and Margaret Brierley of Rochdale.

The CWGC would like to find his direct relatives as they may wish to know that he is to be commemorated and will receive a CWGC headstone in his honour.

Samantha Daynes, media manager for UK Operations at the CWGC, said: “William died whilst serving his country in the First World War and we weren’t alerted to his death at the time, therefore he went unrecognised as war dead.

“However, now his case has been brought to our attention, we can now clarify that William does qualify for commemoration.

“Whether our men and women who served during both World Wars died on the battlefields far from home, or back on British soil, they must all be remembered.

“We would love to be able to find William’s family to share this with.”

If you are a direct relative of William’s, contact the CWGC with your name and details of relationship.

enquiries@cwgc.org