Matthew was born to parents Matthew and Anne (nee Richardson) at Seaham Harbour in 1902. The couple who married in 1878 had 12 children together but unfortunately Alice was born and died in 1901.

The 1901 census records the family living at South Railway Street Seaham Harbour. Also living with them at that time was Ann’s 68 year old father, Mansfield Richardson. The siblings included John William, Hannah, Thomas, Elizabeth, Mary A., Mansfield, Stephen, Edward, James and Joseph Richardson.

However, by 1911 the census showed 8 remaining family members living in a 2 roomed accommodation at 42 First Street Horden Colliery. Several of the young people had moved on to jobs and possibly been married. The girls had certainly moved by then.

Father Matthew worked as an underground shifter labourer in the mine as did most of his sons. Thomas as a labourer underground cleaner out, Stephen a coal putter, Edward a pony driver as was his younger brother, James. The 2 youngest lads Joseph and Matthew were still at school.

Matthew attested at Sunderland May 24th 1919. He stated his age was 18 years 245 days when in fact he was born September 10th 1902 which made him only 16 years 256 days - underage. The age for enlistment was 17 years. His age was quickly picked up as his parents sent his birth certificate to the authorities and discharge arrangements were soon in place.

His records show him to be 5’4” tall and 129lbs in weight. He had a fresh complexion, light brown hair and hazel eyes. He was a member of the Church of England. He stated he was a miner by trade.

He joined the depot at Newcastle until he was posted to the 3rd Battalion Durham Light Infantry on June 21st 1919 to be stationed at Durrington Camp Salisbury. He was discharged on August 13th 1919. His service amounted to 82 days.

Matthew married Doris Reed Hunter at Easington Register Office on December 20th 1926.

He died in 1947 aged 45 years.