AN ELDERLY couple laid a wreath for a Crewe war hero on the 100th anniversary of his death.

On March 30, Joyce and Graham Rawlings, from Crewe, laid a wreath for Harry Burnadine-Rawlings on the 100th anniversary of his death in the First World War.

Harry was born in Crewe and at one time lived in Rigg Street with his brother Walter before departing to fight for his country in the war.

Joyce, 78, commemorated Harry, who is of no relation, as part of the British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Joyce said: “I have supported the British Legion Poppy Appeal for many years, having a cross and poppy laid outside Westminster Abbey to commemorate my Granddad, George O’Brien, who was killed two months before mam was born.

“We have commemorated Granddad, Lewis Albert Payne from Tasmania, and Harry Burnadine. We have pledged to three more – one each year until 2018.

“Lewis Albert was no relation but we were asked to commemorate him, which we did, and we made contact with his relatives in Tasmania and New South Wales.

“It’s a pity we could not find any relatives of Harry Burnadine-Rawlings.

“I wouldn’t be stood here today if it wasn’t for his sacrifice.”

Brian Silvester, UKIP candidate for Willaston and Rope ward, praised Joyce and Graham for keeping the memory of heroes such as Harry alive.

Mr Silvester said: “It is wonderful that a war hero can be remembered in this way, 100 years after his death. I attended the service and it was a very moving occasion.

“I would like to thank Joyce and Graham for arranging this tribute to a Crewe war hero who gave his life, so we could be free to live our lives.

“The ultimate sacrifice.”