World War One Soldier’s Memorial Granted Listed Status

A monument commemorating a World War One soldier, described as “remarkable” and a recipient of the Victoria Cross, has been granted Grade II listed status. Private James Miller VC, born in 1890 near Hoghton, Lancashire, was shot in 1916 during the Battle of the Somme while delivering a message. He persevered to ensure the message reached its destination before succumbing to his injuries at the feet of the recipient. Historic England stated that the Cornish granite monument, located in St Paul’s churchyard in Withnell, Lancashire, which honors him, has been listed due to its historical and architectural significance. Sir Chris Bryant, the Heritage Minister, remarked that Private Miller’s deeds “should never be forgotten”. According to the Imperial War Museum, the Battle of the Somme, which took place from 1 July to 18 November 1916, represented one of the most brutal confrontations of the war, with British forces sustaining over 57,000 casualties on its opening day. Private Miller, formerly employed at a paper mill in Withnell Fold, joined the 7th Battalion, the King’s Own Royal Lancaster Regiment, in September 1914 and was killed on 30 July 1916. The London Gazette reported at the time that his unit required reinforcements to maintain ground secured during an assault. He was chosen to convey a critical message requesting assistance “under heavy shell and rifle fire, and to bring back a reply at all costs”. Nevertheless, as the 26-year-old departed the trench to enter No Man’s Land, he was shot in the back. The Gazette report indicated that the bullet penetrated his abdomen, but “in spite of this, with heroic courage and self-sacrifice, he compressed the gaping wound… delivered his message, staggered back with his answer, and fell dead at the feet of the officer to whom he delivered it”. The report further stated, “He gave his life with a supreme devotion to duty.” His actions facilitated the arrival of reinforcements, thereby saving the lives of numerous soldiers. His likeness was featured in a collection of cigarette cards commemorating Victoria Cross recipients from World War One. A 6.5ft (2m) memorial, financed through public subscription, was erected in St Paul’s churchyard in 1917. His name is additionally inscribed on a family gravestone within the churchyard, alongside those of his brothers, Alex and George, who also perished later in the conflict. In 1989, his family members visited his gravestone in Becordel-Becourt, northern France, where they photographed it with his medal. This medal was subsequently donated to the regimental museum in Lancaster, which also houses his shaving mirror and case, both damaged by the fatal bullet. Heritage Minister Sir Chris Bryant said his actions “should never be forgotten”. Bob Flood, chairman of Withnell Parish Council, further commented: “The story of his courage and self-sacrifice is an inspiration to all who hear it.” Historic England has extended an invitation for individuals to share their accounts concerning this local war memorial. The official listing is accessible here, enabling individuals to contribute stories, information, and photographs to Historic England’s Missing Pieces Project. Listeners can access the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas may also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.