Memorial tribute to soldier

THE name of soldier Pte Sidney Turner, who was killed in action in North Africa in WWII, is to be added to a local war memorial.

The work will be carried out by West Lancashire Borough Council after a call by Lathom and Burscough Branch of the Royal British Legion.

Pte Turner was born on June 30, 1915 and lived his early life in Square Lane, Burscough.

His mother, Ruth, died in 1928 and his father, David, in 1936.

At some time – possibly after his parents had died – he lived with his sister, Hilda, in Ravenscroft Avenue, Ormskirk.

He enlisted in May 1940 into the Kings Own Territorial Army and was on active service in Tunisia, North Africa when, according to official records he was killed in action, on November 28 1942.

He is buried alongside his family at St John the Baptist Church in Burscough.

Under its protocol for war memorials, the council has to hold a public consultation when it is suggested that a name is added.

Groups and individuals came forward in support of having Pte Turner’s name added to Lathom and Burscough War Memorial.

His name will be carved alongside those of others who lost their lives in the World Wars.

John Harrison, director of development and regeneration, said: “The council understands it is very important to properly remember the fallen servicemen and women who have given their lives serving their country.

“In doing so, we want to make sure that the existing names honoured on our war memorial are correct.

“We are very grateful to all those who took part in the consultation.

“We have listened to their views and Pte Turner’s name will now be added to the memorial in the next few months.”

For more information on war memorials in West Lancashire, visit the website www.westlancs.gov. uk/heritage and click on the war memorials link.