Herbert grew up in Maghull, the son of James and Mary Bray. After his mother’s death, the family moved to Walton, Liverpool, where Herbert became a master baker in his father’s business. He joined the 17th (Service) Battallion, (1st City Pals), King’s (Liverpool Regiment) in September 1914. He saw action on the opening day of the Battle of the Somme on July 1st 1916 and died the next day. He is commemorated at Thiepval. His name also featured on the memorial in St Athanasius Church, Kirkdale, which was destroyed by bombing in World War II.