MANY thanks for publishing my letter in the Journal about me trying to trace relatives of Private George Nowell, who was from Atherton and died in the First World War aged 18.

Two people responded, who after research proved to be relatives of George.

I was able to put them in touch with each other and help with their family history, which was great.

He worked at the Fletcher Burrows & Co colliery and enlisted in 1914 when he was only 15.

He was killed in France on May 2, 1917.

I have found a Leigh Journal report of his death, which includes a photograph of him.

I have also obtained a photograph of his grave in a Commonwealth war graves cemetery in France.

His name is recorded on the colliery roll of honour board and also on Atherton War Memorial.

Alongside him on the war memorial is his uncle Harry Nowell, who was killed in action just a few months after George died.

With the 100th anniversary of his death coming next year, I think it is fitting that we should never forget the sacrifice he and others made.

Les Ward

Liverpool