While researching his roots, Mr Pearson was stunned to discover that so many of his Scottish ancestors had perished in the trenches. Sgt Alexander Cranston of the Royal Engineers was 39 when he posted missing, presumed killed, in the 2nd Battle of the Somme on March 26, 1918. He is buried in Pozieres, France. Col Sgt Major John Buchan Cranston of The Queen’s Own Highlanders was killed be shellfire at the 1st Battle of the Somme on July 16, 1916, aged 34. He is buried at Vermelles, France. William Cranston, also 34, was a driver with the Territorial Force who died from his wounds – he lost a hand and sustained a severe eye injury – at an Army base hospital on July 25, 1918. He is buried at the British Cemetery at Wimille, France. Royal Engineers Sapper James Buchan Cranston, 28, died from infection of his wounds in Haddington after being repatriated from France. He lies in the graveyard at St Mary’s Parish Church. Thirty-year-old Private Adam Lindsay Cranston of the Royal Scots Fusiliers was posted missing, presumed killed in action, on November 13, 1916. A sixth brother, L/Corp George McLean Cranston of the Royal Scots, was severely gassed, becoming totally and permanently incapacitated from 1928. He died in Rockdale, Australia, on July 16, 1963 aged 70. Robert Cranston, the youngest and seventh brother who served in the War, also emigrated to Australia. He was just 50 when he broke his neck in falling down stairs in 1950. Said Mr Pearson: “I have searched the online records of the Imperial War Museum and the National Archives of Great Britain. Six casualties out of seven sons from the same family – it seems extraordinary.” http://www.eastlothiancourier.com/articles/1/33735
