Genealogy website Ancestry this week revealed the UK towns that were worst affected by the First World War in terms of soldier losses, with Durham, Derby and Dumfries topping the list.
The town’s population in 1911 was 30,258 and they lost 1448 men during the war – equivalent to 4.9 per cent of residents.
The local loss was significantly higher than elsewhere.
A spokesman for Ancestry said: “Scotland was very badly affected by the First World War, with six Scottish towns among the ten most affected in terms of percentages of their population killed fighting. “National pride, peer pressure and a desire for adventure with a Pals Battalion were among the reasons for sign-ups, while army pay was also a factor for many.
“Sadly many men did not return to their towns. Large Scottish towns like Dumfries and Perth suffered but so too did smaller towns.”
And Ancestry senior content manager Miriam Silverman added: “The First World War was devastating for communities across the UK. Sadly, many brave soldiers did not return to their cities, towns and villages, leaving friends and families bereft.
“It may be a century ago, but their communities and the country as a whole honour their bravery today.”
This weekend, November 11-13, Ancestry is offering free access to all UK military records online, including the UK, Soldiers Died in the Great War, 1914-1919 collection and the emotive war diaries of many of the regiments.
To search these and more than 19 billion other historical records worldwide, visit www.ancestry.co.uk.
