Alfred's Story.
Birkenhead News 17 April 1915
HEROIC ROCK FERRY "TERRIER."
LOSES HIS LIFE IN FRANCE.
We deeply regret to announce that news has reached his parents, who reside at 17, Chatham Road, Rock Ferry, that Private Alfred Dewhurst, of the 5th Cheshires, has been killed in action in France. The sad intelligence was conveyed to Mr. and Mrs. Dewhurst in a letter which had been sent by a chum of the deceased to another son of the bereaved parents, who is now with the 4th Cheshires in training. The letter, which is dated April 6th, and is from Private Eastwood, says :- “I suppose you have heard the sad news about your brother Alf. I can tell you I am very sorry for your people and also for yourself. I was next to him when he was killed. He died without any pain. I was lucky by being only slightly wounded in the back, but I am all right now. I will miss him very much, for I have been with him all the time. Hope to see you some day, then I will explain how he met his death.”
Private Dewhurst, who was only 19 years of age, joined the 4th Cheshires (Territorials) some six months prior to the outbreak of war. He was one of the first to volunteer for active service and had been at the front since February. He received his education at St. Peter’s School, and followed the occupation of assistant butcher to Mr. P Worsley, butcher, New Chester Road, New Ferry. His death has caused widespread sympathy with his relatives, and his employer laments his loss very sincerely.