John's Story.
The Stalybridge Reporter. Saturday, December 2, 1916.
Stalybridge Youth’s Death from Wounds in France.
The death from wounds has taken place in France of Private John Flint, the eldest son of Mrs Martin, of Windy Harbour, Ridge Hill, Stalybridge. Private Flint enlisted in the Bantam battalion of the Cheshire regiment on October 2nd, 1915, then being only 17 years of age. He went to France in April last and was seriously wounded on the 12th of November and died in the early hours of the following day.
In a letter dated 13th of November the reverend Arthur E Ross, Church of England chaplain, wrote to Mrs Martin that private Flint was seriously wounded on the previous day and died a few hours after admission to hospital. He added may I say how much I sympathise with you in your great sorrow, but the lives that are being laid down are not in vain. No cause has ever better worth fighting for.
Prior to enlistment Private Flint was employed as a piecer at the Britannia Spinning Company mill, Mossley. He was only 18 years of age. He was a quiet and intelligent young fellow and was much respected by his many friends. He was associated with the Albion mission church at Hazelhurst, and on Sunday night a service in memory of him was held and was very well attended.
The war diary for the period states.
Battalion still occupied sector J1 trenches Arras. Weather much broken and cold at night. Trenches in many parts collapse owing to the soft nature off the ground, poor revetments done by the previous occupants and inclement weather. Much labour and time is expended in redeeming line and making the trenches more serviceable. Daily minor strafes are engaged in by which we suffer little retaliation.
The chief weapon of the enemy retaliation is the trench mortar which we effectively engage and silence on all occasions. The enemy indulges in little rifle and machine gun fire. Captured prisoners inform brigade of nights of usual relief when all arms are engaged in bringing fire to bear upon enemy trenches and roads leading to the line.
No man's land is seldom occupied by hostile patrols, ascendancy previously gained maintained. Sniping practically nil.
Battalion strength officers 17, other ranks 727. Casualties 1 officer killed, 1 officer wounded. 2 other ranks killed 3 wounded.
