100 Stories > Henry D Riley (1881-1916)

‘Harry’ was the founder of Burnley Lads’ Club. The club gave working class boys the chance to improve their education through sport and study but also by experiencing life outside Burnley at camp.

When Harry joined the Pals many of the club members followed him. He led the Burnley company when they attacked on the Somme, on 1st July. It soon became clear ‘Riley’s gone.’ Harry’s body was never found and he is commemorated on the Thiepval memorial.

The club’s motto was Dare all but Dishonour, and at least 123 members died in the war.