In Memory of

Private Alexander Wylie Hunter

1228
1st/4th Prince of Wales’ Volunteers (South Lancashire Regiment)
Killed in Action 29th May 1915 Age 22

Pte Alex Hunter was the son of Mr and Mrs Hunter of 61, Birley Street, Newton-le-Willows. His brother, Jack, was also fighting in France. Alex had served four years with the South Lancashire Territorials. He was educated at St. Peter's School, and was a member of the Bible Class. Before the War, he was employed in the boiler yard at the Vulcan Foundry, where he served his apprenticeship of seven years.

He is buried in Dickesbusch New Military Cemetery, which is a few kilometres south-west of Ieper. The cemetery was begun in February 1915, in succession to the Old Military Cemetery near the Church. It was used until May 1917 by the units and Field Ambulances in the neighbourhood.

Private Joseph Roberts (1403) of "C" Company, 4th South Lancashire wrote to Mr G. Roberts at the Vulcan Foundry. He said:-

"Just a few lines to let you know I have not forgotten you, and am still in the land of the living. I regret to inform you that one of your workmen - A. Hunter - has been killed. He was shot through the stomach on Friday night, and died on Saturday afternoon about 1-30 p.m. We had just been relieved from the firing trench after three days and were in the reserve trench. Alex was put on guard at the end of a communication trench, when he was hit by a cross shot through the muscles of his stomach, the bullet finally lodging in his elbow.

He was buried by the side of a few more British heroes in a little cemetery.

We have not been in any of the heavy fighting yet, but are about to go to _________ where the Germans are making their bold efforts for Calais.

I don't think there is anything more at present, so remember me to all the old hands."

Private Hunter was one of the first casualties from Newton-le-Willows, so was commemorated in a poem published in the local newspaper