AN uplifting message of support, sympathy and slight jealously was sent to those in Germany by two Warrington soldiers stationed in Ireland.

The open letter, published in the May 1 edition of the Warrington Guardian in 1914, included a Warrington-twist on the old favourite It’s a long way to Tipperary.

The adapted song had been started and made popular by Warrington-born Gunners H. Talinson and E. Healey, both of whom were part of Royal Garrison Artillery.

“We are very sorry to hear about the casualties of some of our mates. In particular, Lieutenant Seymour-Jones, but we have no doubt that the ‘Wirepullers’ will avenge his death.

“We are more than pleased to hear about the otherwise cherry condition of our lads, but that is usual. We are the same out here, expect perhaps when we hear in the Guardian of the exciting times they are having out there while us poor beggars are stuck here, then we envy them and wish we were alongside them in the trenches.

“But after all, someone must look after our home islands, and we must be content knowing that we are doing our little best to bring the war to a successful issue.

“The weather here is very cold and wet. The guards we did at night, in all kinds of weather made us wonder what it would be like in the trenches; it was bad enough here.

“We are evidently not the only Warringtonians here, there is at least one ‘Wirepuller’ with the Connaught Rangers, who we know are training here after playing football against them.

“Someone from their side persisted in shouting “Go on Warrington!” and “Play up Wire!”, and didn’t it remind us of the struggles we have witnessed on the football ground.

“The chaps’ favourite song here is It’s a long way to Tipperary, but our translation is It’s a long way to Sankey Bridges. We are hoping that we will be able to return to the old town before long.”

The Warrington duo signed off with a message to the frontline: “Best of jolly good luck.”