Subject

Entertainer and cinema manager. Born Edward Cyril Hawken Rowland in Plymouth. He appeared as a music hall comedian in London before joining the army. During World War I, he served in France with the British Expeditionary Force, which became known as the 'Old Contemptibles'. In his time abroad, he wrote the song 'Mademoiselle from Armentieres', which achieved huge popularity. After the war he resumed his theatrical career and moved to Sutton, Surrey, where he ran the Surrey County Cinema. He also became involved with many local charities and organisations.