He was born 30 November 1896 and baptised 24 January 1897 at St. Pauls Church, Deptford. The family were living at 30 Henry Street, Deptford.

In 1911 he was living with his parents at 59 Childers Street, Deptford . He was employed as a van boy. He had 2 brothers William and  Charles and 4 sisters Elsie, Ethel, Florence and Annie May.

Jj Ss