Bert was born in 1894 in Leicester to John Bird, a estate worker and Rosanna (nee Ward). He was an only child.
In 1901 census the family lived at 111 St. Leonard’s Road and John was a gamekeeper.
In 1911 census the were at the same address. John is listed as a cowman and James, aged 16, is a gardener.
In 1913 James married Lavinia Stable ford and they had 1 child. James left his job as gardener for Mr. W White of Avenue Road to join the army.
James became Private 27123 8th Battalion Leicestershire Regiment and Died of Wounds on 22.9.1916 aged 22. He is buried at Heilly Station Cemetery iv.i.13.
His photograph is in Leicester Mail 18.10.1916 Pg 5.
I am fairly confident I have the correct person but I cannot be certain.
