Eric Bruce

Bank: Union of London & Smiths Bank

Place of work: Mansfield branch

Died: 17 November 1916

Eric Bruce was born on 20 August 1891, the son of Josiah and Eleanor Bruce of Mirfield. He was educated at St Pauls Parish Church School and Mirfield Grammar School.

In June 1907 he went to work for Union of London & Smiths Bank at its Mirfield branch. Three years later, he transferred to Batley branch. In Spring 1913 his manager described him to head office as 'a man of much promise' and, the following month, 'of exceptional ability'. In June that year he moved to Hull branch, and the following month passed the final examination of the Institute of Bankers. He later moved to Mansfield branch.

In the first year of the First World War Bruce joined the army, serving as a Second Lieutenant in the Black Watch (Royal Highlanders). He died of paratyphoid fever in Mesopotamia on 17 November 1916. He was 25 years old.

Eric Bruce is commemorated on a bank war memorial at NatWest City of London office.