Born in Sutton Valence, Kent on 26 November 1922,[2] he volunteered early for service in the armed forces, mobilising on 1 September 1939, arriving in France in October 1939 and leaving during the Dunkirk evacuation on 1 June the following year.
[2] He was awarded the Military Cross for his conduct during the Battle of Leros in 1943, but became a prisoner of war after the allied surrender in that theatre on 16 November 1943.
[3][2] Believing he had important military information, probably relating to his work with partisans, the Germans repeatedly interrogated him and placed him in solitary confinement.
[2] At Oflag 79 he and other prisoners set up the Brunswick Club, intended to contribute to a more peaceful world in "which all wished to see emerge from the desolation of war" and still existing in Fulham.
[2] In retirement he served in a number of roles in the Distressed Gentlefolks' Aid Association, including Chief Executive Officer.