Lance Corporal Charles Symes Bridle
25th Provisional Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment

1914 Star

Born 29/09/1895, St Peter Port, Guernsey. Son of Frederick Bridle and Sarah Allen, Vrangue Hill. Brother of Gunner Harry Bridle, RGA. Worked as a greenhouse labourer, before signing up in 1912.

In May 1915 he contracted measles and was admitted to hospital at Wimereaux. Transferred to Birmingham Hospital. Furloughed home to the Vrangue 01/06/1915 to 13/06/1915. Sent back to front and dangerously wounded by 19/09/1915 and a week later also had dysentry as well as wounds to left thigh and right arm. Admitted to hospital in Malta 26/09/1915. Was sent home from Egypt (Malta?) on SS Panama on 09/11/1915.

Service record shows that he was supposed to be dismissed on 14/12/1916 as no longer fit for service but this is crossed out. Had previously served in 2nd Batt. Admitted to Highfield Hall, Southampton on 11/11/1915 with an unknown complaint. Discharged 14/12/1916. SWB 27/01/1917 when he was already living at 44, Radcliffe Road, Northam, Southampton. In 1921 was in The Welsh Hospital, Netley as a patient. This was a military hospital. Reason for hospital stay not known.

Working for Harland & Wolf Shipbuilders in Southampton Docks as an electricians's mate. Married Beatrice M Ryder Apr 1918. Described as honest, sober, trustworthy, intelligent and clean by his Captain. Entry in Pension Record cards but not clear what pension he received. One daughter, Joan B Bridle born on 13/10/1920. Registered as a postman 1932 in Southampton. In 1939, he was working as an aircraft fitter.

Died 08/4/1972 at 1 Whistler Clo, Sholing, Southampton leaving £2124.