Holmes, Arthur Ernest

Gunner Arthur Ernest Holmes

was born at Mallow, Co. Cork on 2nd April 1899 to Captain William Holmes, and Martha Holmes nee Somerville. They had married on 28th January 1883 at St. Mark's Church, Armagh.

In 1901 Holmes (1) lived in house 49 Main Street, Mallow, Co. Cork with his mother and 5 siblings; William K H (17), Mary H (15), Alice E H (13), Gertrude M (9) and Leonard G (3). His father is presumably recorded as living in an army barracks possibly outside the UK.

In 1911 Holmes was living in 2 Goring Road, Llanelli, Wales with his parents and 3 siblings; Martha, Margaret and George. William Holmes (60) and Martha Holmes (52).

Holmes joined the Belfast Banking Company around 1916/1917. His Bankers Guarantee was signed by Major William Holmes of Downshire Park, Carrickfergus and later by Ellen Margaret Holmes (wife).

BBCo Bankers Guarantee ledger sheet

He is recorded as serving in Western branch and Markets branch.

Belfast Bank, Western branch (Shankill Road, Belfast)

Holmes volunteered and enlisted as a Gunner into the Royal Garrison Artillery with Service Numbers 290 & later 292250.

A E Holmes - Medal Index Card

He was awarded the British War Medal and the British Victory Medal.

Following his demobilisation after the Great War, Holmes re-joined the bank eventually ending up as Manager of Victoria Street branch. 

Belfast Bank, Markets branch (Victoria Street, Belfast)

Holmes was a member of the Belfast Banking Company Sports Club on 26th March 1945 paying 5 shillings subscription. 

A E Holmes - 1950s BBCo photograph album

Retirement came in 1960 as Manager of  Markets branch (161 Victoria Street, Belfast).

 
Arthur Holmes died on 15th June 1979.

His son, Alan Holmes (Northern Bank [staff] pensioner) attended the 2000 re-dedication ceremony of the Rolls of Honour.

Alan Holmes, 'The Link' 1975