Ernest Edward Brooks was born in Barcombe, Sussex about 1898.  When the 1901 census was taken, he was a two year old infant living at home in Balneath, Barcombe with his older brother Henry Alfred Brooks (aged five) and his parents.  His father, Alfred Brooks, born in East Chiltington, was  a 26 year old brickyard labourer.  His mother, Sarah Brooks, aged 27 was also a native of Barcombe.  Later, a daughter – Daisy Margaret Brooks, born around 1902 – would complete the family.

 

Little is known of Ernest Brooks’ war service.  Chailey Parish Magazine first mentions him in August 1918, noting that Pte E Brooks is serving with the 3rd (Reserve) Royal Sussex Regiment.  This information is repeated up to and including the final published roll call in July 1919.

 

Ernest Brooks died in 1965.  His brother, Henry Alfred Brooks was killed in action on the Italian Front on 15th June 1918.

 

 

Sources & Acknowledgements

 

• 1901 Census of England & Wales
• Chailey Parish Magazine
• Mr and Mrs Alfred E Brooks of Chailey, Sussex