WHEN Janet Alker read about John Archibald Fayne in Looking Back it was fascinating to her.

That is because her uncle, Pte Peter Marsden, also served in Salonika.

Peter served with the Kings Own Royal Lancs No16411.

He enlisted in Atherton on December 8 1914 aged 19 years and 69 days.

“I have his soldier’s small book,” she explains.

He was in the 9th battalion attached to the 65th brigade in 22 division.

“I have not been able to find out about his actions in Salonika. The next thing I know that he was killed by shrapnel on September 14 1916.

“I have a letter about his death sent to my grandparents, who lived in Bolton Road, Westhoughton. The letter was written by a Thomas Morris of White Horse, Westhoughton. I do not know of the family, or what happened to Thomas,” she says.

After doing some research Janet discovered Peter was buried in the Karasouli Military Cemetery, 56 km from the city of Thessaloniki. “I managed to visit this place when my husband and I booked on a cruise ship which docked in Thessaloniki. It was very emotional, as my dad, Peter’s brother, always wanted to visit his grave but never did.”

Janet would love to find out more about her uncle. “I do have his medals, death penny and prayer book he had when he died.”

If anyone can help Janet, please get in touch with Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 or email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk