This is the third in a small series based around local war hero Daniel Laidlaw VC - The Piper of Loos
The Piper of Loos #1 - GC8D4RE
The Piper of Loos #2 - GC8D9VG
The Piper of Loos #4 - GC8DEDK
After spending 11 weeks in hospital Piper Laidlaw returned to a heroes welcome in Northumberland and was presented with an illuminated address at Doddington, where he was then residing with his family. His pipes which were smashed in the battle were repaired and silver mounted. Daniel was presented with his Victoria Cross at Buckingham Palace by King George V on 3rd February 1916. Daniel was discharged in March 1920. His medal collection consisted of the Victoria Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal (1914-1920), Victory Medal (1914-1919) + MiD Oakleaf, Defence Medal (1939-45), King George VI Coronation Medal (1937) and the Croix de Guerre (France).
Although Daniel became somewhat of a celebrity, being invited to attend numerous local functions, playing every year at the Cenotaph and appearing in The Guns of Loos and Forgotten Men, he found it difficult to find regular employment and worked as sub postmaster at Shoresdean before his death at home on 2nd June 1950.
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Shoresdean is a small settlement in Northumberland, between West Allerdean and Shoreswood. The remains of Shoresdean Colliery, a 19th century coal mine, can be seen close by. The hamlet consists of an oval of dwellings and overlooks the beautiful Northumbrian countryside.