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1911 census - Errand Boy (Drapers - wollen retail) When Thomas W Coombes joined the army in 1915 his address was given as 6 Balcan Villas, Ditton Court, Ilminster. Tom was a chauffeur for the Putnam family when living at Farringdon Lodge. He was allowed to drive the Rolls Royce (a 20hp Park Ward Limousine registration DV 2196, chassis GEN76 ordered mid 1929) for personal travel and would drive his family to Somerset to see relatives. Tom was employed by James Putnam about April 1929. Six months later he went on a Rolls Royce driving course and test from 7-12 October 1929. With only one week training and one hour driving he finished with a high recomendation. His driver report states he was the 'onlyman' (driver) for James Putnam and had 16 years experience (1913). Confirmed by marriage certificate in 1919 that he was employed as a Chauffeur/Mechanic. 1939 register: Market Gardener - own account and motor mechanic. Living at Waterslade Cottage, Honiton Clyst. |
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Joined Armay: Expeditionary Force in France as a driver Service number: 055393 - Driver |
| 1919 Dec qtr. Langport 5c 949 |
| Chauffeur for Putnam family at Farringdon House. |
| Ashes interred at Ilminster in grave with his daughter Wanda. |