Thomas Purnell

Bank: National Provincial Bank of England

Place of work: Blandford branch

Died: 29 August 1918

Thomas Leonard Purnell was born in Exeter on 5 March 1898, the only son of Frank Raynes Purnell, a coal merchant, and his wife Annie. In June 1914, when Purnell was 16 years old, he went to work for National Provincial Bank of England as an apprentice at its Paignton branch. In June 1915 he moved to Blandford branch, still as an apprentice. His manager there reported that he was a 'smart bright youth. Is a first rate clerk', and recommended him for promotion to a clerkship.

During the First World War Purnell joined the army, becoming a Private in the London Regiment. He died in France on 29 August 1918. He was 20 years old.