Born in Liverpool on 4 November 1837, Robert Brindle was ordained to the catholic priesthood on 27 December 1862.
Brindle joined the Royal Army Chaplains' Department and during the Gordon Relief Expedition (1884–85), was commissioned an army chaplain. A humble man, he marched with the troops rather than riding with the officers; and handled an oar with the 1st Royal Irish Regiment as they rowed up the Nile.
He was mentioned in Kitchener's dispatches for his services to the wounded during the Battle of Omdurman. A "technicality" of some sort derailed a knighthood being granted him.
Sir Evelyn Wood said, "Father Brindle was doubtless the most popular man in the Expedition. His own flock naturally loved him, and he was respected by everyone ... He had a pony which he never rode, it being used to carry foot-sore men in turn.".
In recognition of services in Egypt and the Sudan, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order on 16 November 1898. Brindle retired from the army as Chaplain to the Forces First Class in 1899.
Above: A detail of Brindle's portrait showing the impressive array of orders, deorations and medals earned while on active service in Egypt and Sudan.
Brindle was latter appointed the Catholic bishop of Nottingham, holding the post until June 1915. He passed away in June 1916 and was granted a military funeral with full military honours.