Gnr J Cooper 70th Bde RFA - Help ?

[cooper]

Can anyone supply details of the service of my relative listed above?

I would greatly appreicate if they could.

I have a deep interest in WW1 which has been with me since I was 17 years old. In the last year I have become interested in researching. I have become aware of a relative who perished during the conflict and would like some details if any.

Last year I managed to find his record on the CWGC website. Me, my brother and my Father visited his grave during the summer, we were the first(sadly) in the family to do so.

As a result I am trying to research his service history and training, basically his life in the army.

The details I have are as follows:

80718 Gunner John Cooper

'A' Battery 70th Brigade Royal Field Artillery - Attached to the 15th Div.

Born and enlisted in York

Died February 20th 1916 and buried at Vermelles near Loos.

His parents lived at Sutton on the Forest , Yorkshire.

Does anyone no what was happening in frony of Vermelles during Feb 1916?

If anyone has any details I would be very greatful for help.

Thanks and all the best,

James Cooper

[cooper]

Unfortunately I do not have access to the PRO or the funds with which to pay a researcher.

However, if anyone visiting the PRO could copy My Uncle's service record and whatever details are available to him or her, ie what medals he was elligable for, medical record, wounds etc I will offer a WW1 French Lebel cruciform bayonet and a trench arted (braided) french belt.

I have been scouring the internet and books for many months to no avail, I am not much closer of putting together the story of his short life.

If anyone can or willing is to do this, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thankyou,

James Cooper