South Yorkshire Times – Saturday 15 August 1942

Held By Japs.

The first man in Wombwell to be listed a prisoner in the hands of the Japanese is Spr. Eric Harper, (26), single, son of Mr. R. J. Harper, of 18, Milton Street.

Official news was received on Tuesday.

An old boy of Ellis School, Brampton, Wombwell, Harper left work as a haulage hand at Cortonwood Colliery to join the Royal Engineers in 1934.

He was drafted to Hong Kong five years ago, and was there when the Japanese entered. He was reported missing last January.

Lawson says he has learned enough German to be able to work as interpreter, and when he comes home he intends to teach his little niece, Sylvia Cooper, of 95, Mitchell Terrace, the German language.

His latest letters state that he is comfortable and happy.