Philip Haile

Bank: National Provincial Bank

Place of work: Whitley Bay branch

Died: 21 January 1945

Philip Bellerby Haile was born on 4 September 1922, the son of Alfred and Amy Haile. He was educated at Stockton Secondary School and joined the staff of National Provincial Bank straight from school as a probationer in October 1927 at Whitley Bay branch. He was introduced to the bank by his uncle, Mr Barford, who worked in the bank's architect's department. Haile was promoted to clerk in October 1941. In his spare time he was a keen musician, playing the piano and the organ. He also enjoyed playing cricket and was involved in a church community and youth movements.

In September 1941 Haile enrolled with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve but continued to work for the bank until he was embodied in March 1942. He trained in South Africa and was then posted to the RAF's India Command. On 21 January 1945 Flight Sergeant Haile was killed in action over Burma. He was 22 years old.