The soldier found by Willyam - John Richard Pollard -- his birthdate was 1.12.1878 and his address on Army records was in Rossendale, so maybe that's the one you have found Keyboard-- but I am not sure if it's the same person unfortunately.
If his name was recorded on army papers as John Richard -- you would think it would have BOTH initials on his medals wouldn't you? I am no expert though on military medals.