Matthew Thorogood Akers was baptized July 1, 1894 at Holy Trinity Church, Darlington.

Parents: Matthew Akers, born Neasham, Yorkshire and Emily Alice. Matthew was a cabinet maker.

By the 1901 census Matthew's mother had died and he and 4 sisters and brother Thomas were living with their father at 20, Tubwell Row (a shop).

In the 1911 census Matthew and his sister Polly were still living with their father. Matthew had joined his father as a cabinet maker.

Army number: 250577. Rank. Private. Unit: 1st/6th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry.

Matthew was killed in action at Monchy April 14, 1917, age 23 years. His address was 19, East Raby Street, Darlington.

Matthew is buried at Heninel Communal Cemetery Extension, Grave A.3.

Matthew is commemorated at St. Cuthbert's Church, Darlington.