Percy Watts's Story.
Birkenhead News 06 October 1917FIVE SOLDIER BROTHERS.
One Killed Whilst Entering a Dug-out.
Private Percy Watts Bell, aged 25 years, the sixth son of Mr. and Mrs. George Bell, of 151, Laird Street, Birkenhead, was killed in action on August 21st. His officer in a letter to the late soldier’s wife writes :- “He was killed whilst entering his dug-out (with another, who has since died of wounds), by a shell that has dropped right in the doorway. Death was instantaneous, and that knowledge may be a slight consolation to you. As a soldier he was splendid; he was very popular with all his comrades, and we feel his loss keenly. As his platoon commander I can assure you that he was always willing to do his duty whatever task was set him. He was buried in a churchyard of a neighbouring village Enquinham, close to Armentieres, and a cross will be duly erected over his grave.”
The late Pte. Bell, who was one of five brothers who enlisted, had been in France for six months. Before joining the Army he was employed by Messrs. Matthew and Roberts, Copperas Hill, Liverpool. He was educated at Laird Street School. Mr. and Mrs. Bell’s other four sons have all seen active service.