Ernest was born at Barnard Castle 18th July 1882 and was later baptised at the Parochial Chapelry, Barnard Castle on January 7th 1883. He was the son of Thomas Lee and Mary. who lived at 1 Montalbo Terrace.

In the 1891 census Ernest aged 8 was living at the family home at 1 Montalbo Terrace. His father was shown to be a contractor.

By 1901 Ernest was boarding at 12 Blackwellgate, Darlington with Richard Nicholson and his family. Mr Nicholson was a pharmaceutical chemist with a shop whilst Ernest is shown as a chemist’ apprentice, obviously learning the trade.

In the 1911 census Thomas Lee a contractor was living at Barnard Castle with his wife Mary, daughter Florence aged 23 and Alice Marion Graham his married stepdaughter. Ernest Lee has yet to be found in the Census.

Ernest joined the army but unfortunately his service records do not appear to have survived. He was living at The Grove, 63 Galgate Barnard Castle when he died on 23rd March 1919.

Recipient of the Victory Medal and British War Medal.

His estate amounted to £240 which was left to Thomas Lee a plumber's labourer.

There is no CWGC entry for Ernest which suggests he had already been discharged from the Army.

Ernest Lee is remembered at Barnard Castle on B135.02, B135.23 and B135.25