Ephraim George BARKER

Buried in Anneux British Cemetery, France. Previously served as Pte 4795. North Staffs Regt. He is or was commemorated on a Poppy Cross Memorial at the Bucknall War Memorial, Staffordshire, November 2014. Some notes from what remains of his army record. He enlisted on the 3rd December 1915 aged 19 years and 11 months . His occupation was a farm labourer and he was living at 40, Derby Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. His next of kin was his brother, Thomas of 32, Eastbourne Street, Hanley. His father, William of 40, Derby Street was his original next of kin. He was called to the colours on the 31st February 1916 was posted to the 6th North Staffordshire Regiment Depot as private 4795. He was posted to France, embarking at Folkestone on the 3rd September and disembarking at Boulogne on the same day. On the 21st September 1916 he was transferred to 2/5th The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment as private 27309 and joined his regiment in the field. On the 11th November 1916 he was admitted to No 19, D.R.S. suffering from Impetigo, then at No 19, Casualty Clearing Station all the same day. On the 14th November he was admitted No 5 General Hospital, Rouen and finally to No.2 Convalescent Depot, Rouen. On the 21st December 1916 he rejoined his regiment in the field at Etaples. His skin condition re-appeared and he was admitted to 57th Field Ambulance on the 28th March 1917 and the same day transferred to No.10 Stationary Hospital, St Omar wher on the 31st March he was now suffering from scabies. On the 13th April 1917 he was discharged from hospital fit for service and he re-joined his regiment in the field. He was killed in action on the 1st October 1918. His medals were sent to his brother, Thomas.