Other Information:John studied medicine at University College, London, qualifying M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P. in 1900, and then settled at West Coker, near Yeovil, where he succeeded in working up a good practice. He held the appointments of poor-law medical officer for the district, and was elected to represent his colleagues on the National Insurance Service Committee, whilst he also found time for such recreations as shooting, tennis, and motor cycling. One of John's colleagues wrote: “Quite early in the war Bell expressed his readiness to join the R.A.M.C., but as he was carrying on an essentially country practice (his nearest colleague being over three miles away) it was difficult for him to make the necessary arrangements to get away. When the chance offered in August last he at once applied for a commission and was accepted. Many of his patients were surely distressed at the thought of losing his services, for although of a somewhat brusque manner he had a genial disposition, and he was much beloved and trusted by them. Both they and his former colleagues deeply lament the loss to themselves and the profession.” John died of dysentery at Alexandria. He was the son of George and Elizabeth Bell of 15 Vanbrugh Park Road, Blackheath, and the husband of Caroline May Bell of The Bungalow, Silchester, Reading. [Information and photograph from the Lancet (special thanks to Dave Stowe)].
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