Campaign secures official recognition for Burslem First World War hero after 108 years

A Burslem First World War soldier is set to receive official commemoration more than a century after his death.

It follows a successful campaign that overturned an earlier decision by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).

More than 108 years after he died from wounds sustained during one of the bloodiest battles of the war, Private Alfred Holdcroft is set to finally be recognised with an official war grave headstone by CWGC.

On 1 July 1916, Alfred’s battalion – the 1/5th North Staffordshire Regiment – went over the top on the opening day of the Somme offensive.

Although he survived the battlefield, he suffered severe wounds and later died in 1918 while recovering from his injuries.

He was laid to rest in Burslem Cemetery, but for many years his grave remained unmarked and he was not officially commemorated as a Commonwealth war casualty.

His story came to light through research carried out as part of the Royal Doulton Burslem Memorial project. In September last year, his grave was rededicated and a new cross laid, followed by a civic flag presentation ceremony attended by his family.

An application seeking official recognition was submitted to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in June 2025.

Although it was initially refused, the decision was challenged through a formal appeal.

Following a review of the evidence, the Commission overturned its original decision. Alfred has now been accepted for commemoration and will receive a Commonwealth War Graves Commission headstone, subject to verification of his grave and the necessary permissions.

At Alfred’s flag presentation ceremony, his grandson, also called Alfred, said:

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for bringing Grandad home.”

Councillor Steve Watkins, who was Lord Mayor at the time of the rededication and flag presentation and serves as Armed Forces Champion at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said:

“This is an important moment for Alfred’s family and for our city.

“For more than a century, Alfred’s sacrifice was not officially recognised and it has been an honour to help ensure his sacrifice is not forgotten.

“It was also a privilege to act as custodian of Alfred’s memorial flag and to welcome his family to the Civic Chamber.

This decision is a testament to the determination of all those who refused to let his story be forgotten.”

Joan Walley, honorary secretary on behalf of Burslem Remembers, said:

“It is right and fitting that as the War Graves Commission honours the memory of the fallen on the occasion of the 110-year anniversary of the Battle of the Somme , so in Burslem our painstaking efforts to make the case for a commemorative headstone in Burslem cemetery for Alfred Holdcroft have been accepted by the War Graves Commission.

“The Burslem Remembers Steering Group is working to make sure that we never forget the sacrifices made. Through our outreach work this week with Borderlines at the new Victoria Theatre a new generation will understand how much we owe to Alfred Holdcroft and all who gave their lives.”

Ruth Butler, researcher with the Kilngate Memorial Project, said:

“This decision corrects a long-standing omission.

“More than 108 years after his death, Alfred Holdcroft has finally received the recognition he deserves.

“His service to King and Country is now formally honoured, ensuring his sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

For more information, visit: https://www.honouringtheroyaldoultonfallen.co.uk/