Ashley Fardell

Bank: Westminster Bank

Place of work: Petworth branch

Died: 10 March 1945

Ashley Stanley John Fardell was born on 4 October 1910, the son of Henry William and Alice Mary Fardell. He was educated at Churcher's College, Petersfield, where he excelled in sports, captaining the cricket, rugby and shooting teams. 

In July 1928 he joined the staff of Westminster Bank, working initially at Midhurst branch before transferring to Petworth in June 1932. Outside work he maintained his enthusiasm for sport, and served as captain of Midhurst, and later Petworth, Cricket Clubs. He was also captain of Petersfield Rugby XV for several seasons. 

In June 1940 Fardell left the bank to join the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. After training in Canada he was posted to India. His passion for sport continued, including representing the RAF in an inter-services competition in India, winning the 100 yards race. After completing his service in India he returned to England. 

Flight Lieutenant Fardell was killed on 10 March 1945 when the Mosquito in which he was on a training flight from RAF Barford St John, Oxfordshire, crashed during takeoff. He was 34 years old. His obituary in the bank's staff magazine noted, 'with his colleagues in the Bank, and among a wide circle of friends outside it, he has left many happy and inspiring memories. Indeed it is difficult to realise that we shall not again have his charming personality with us.'

Ashley Fardell is commemorated on a bank war memorial at NatWest Chichester branch.