Arthur was born in Trowse, near Norwich, on 23rd March 1885, the youngest son of David and Ann (née Kenny). In 1901, the family was living in Henstead, Norfolk, and Arthur was working as a woodworker. By 1911, he was a general labourer and, two years later, he had applied to St Audry’s Hospital in Melton for work as an attendant. He started work there on 22nd January 1913.

In early 1916, Arthur married Elizabeth Grist in Henstead, Norfolk. On 31st August 1916, he left St Audry’s to join the Royal Garrison Artillery. After training, he was posted to join 264th Siege Battery. Arthur remained with the battery until the end of the war and was discharged in February 1919, returning to work at St Audry’s Hospital. For his war service, Arthur received the British War and Victory Medals.

Arthur continued to work at St Audry’s Hospital until his retirement. In 1939, he was living with his wife Elizabeth at Brookside on Melton Road.