Cpl Ernest Elliot Bell

Ernest was born in 1894 in Brentwood, the son of William and Alice Bell. He grew up on Junction Road living with his parents, two sisters, two step-sisters, step-brother, and his grandma.

He was clearly eager to join up during the first world war, and signed up to join the territorial forces on 15th September 1914. On 17th February 1915 he re-enlisted in the army. Ernest joined up as a private, and was promoted to Lance Corporal before May 1915. Unfortunately in May 1915 he failed to rendevous with his commanding officer while still in the UK and was demoted for it.

He went to France in August 1915 and by late 1917 he was an acting corporal. He was killed in action on the 1st October 1917.