The story of Fred Bates is wreathed in mystery - how did an individual from Blackburn come to serve under the alias of Frank Taylor? 

Fred Bates joined the volunteers in April 1904 under the false name of Frank Taylor and quickly transferred to The 1st Battalion, The Kings Liverpool Regiment which was based at Aldershot Barracks.

After completing his training, he was transferred to the 2nd Battalion, The Kings Liverpool Regiment in India where he spent up to eight years serving under the colours. During this time his brother Albert Bates also tried to sign up, but was subsequently discharged as his parents stated that he was underage. When asked to show her mark, Fred and Albert's mother Ellen Bates scratched an X in confirmation of her statement regarding Albert's youthful status - this despite rumours that both William and Ellen Bates were alcoholics who didn't provide adequate care for their children. 

It later transpired, through a family story, that Fred Bates had signed up but had deserted from his first unit because they were not being posted anywhere and Fred was eager to travel overseas.

In 1913, Fred Bates returned home to Blackburn and lived with his brother Albert until he was recalled to The 1st Battalion, The Kings Liverpool Regiment at the outbreak of the First World War.

Under the name of Frank Taylor, Fred Bates fought with The British Expeditionary Force throughout the retreat from Mons and during November 1914, was one of 400 men who bravely defended Polygon Wood against a determined assault by units from The 1st Prussian Guards.

On Tuesday the 12th of January 1915 near Festubert, Fred Bates (alias Private Frank Taylor) was killed in action; his body was taken back from the front line and was buried at Le Touret Military Cemetery.

At the end of the war, William and Ellen Bates requested that their son be buried as Fred Bates - a request which was granted, ensuring that Fred's real name was not lost. Today his headstone in Le Touret Military Cemetery, Richebourg-L'avoue, France, proudly shows: Private 9037, Fred Bates, 1st Bn. The King's (Liverpool Regiment).