HELL LET LOOSE

The 1/7th (Salford) Bn Lancashire Fusiliers 1914-15

By Neil Drum & Roger Dowson

Neil Richardson Publishing 2005 - ISBN 1 85216 162 0 - A4 size paperback - 91pp - £x

The 1/7th Territorial Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers were raised in Salford, and had been in existence since 1908 - in many ways they were the original 'Salford Pals' being recruited specifically in that area prior to 1914. On the outbreak of war they were almost up to strength with 30 officers and 990 men, and were part of the 42nd (East Lancashire) Division. They immediately set sail for Egypt, being part of the first Territorial Infantry Division to see overseas service in the Great War. In May 1915 they moved to Gallipoli, landing at Cape Helles on 4th May. They were thrown into the battlefield at Krithia, where they remained for the rest of the campaign.

The fascinating and engaging book follows the fortunes of these Salford lads, and tackles their story chronologically. As with their previous publication 'Gods Own - 1st Salford Pals' the authors place a heavy emphasis on providing details of those killed and wounded, in most cases providing photographs of the men concerned. The book is well illustrated with photographs of the unit and the places it served and fought over, and there are some excellent maps of the trench systems at Gallipoli. The final part of the book is an extensive Roll of Service of the battalion listing details of all those who served in the 1914-15: this makes it especially useful for anyone researching men from this unit. I particularly enjoyed reading the account of a visit to Gallipoli in 1923 by the brother of one of those had died with the battalion.

An excellent book, and a nice production: further titles are planned, and are eagerly awaited. Highly recommended.

Signed copies can be ordered from the authors direct at: