Herbert Harris was born in Bristol and was educated at Clifton College. In the first world war he was commissioned in the King's Shropshire Light Infantry and served in the Dardanelles where he was awarded the Military Cross. After the war he studied medicine at Cambridge University and at St Bartholomew's Hospital, qualifying in 1923. Later he joined his father in general practice in Clifton, but soon became interested in ear, nose and throat surgery and took his Fellowship in 1931. He very soon was appointed to the staff of the Bristol General Hospital as a consultant in the former specialty, although continuing in general practice. During the second world war he undertook heavy additional responsibilities while deputising for his colleagues who were on active service. In 1955 he finally gave up general practice but continued his surgical work for a time while living at Halse, near Taunton. From his home in Somerset he was able to enjoy his recreations of sailing, photography and gardening. Elwin was a member of the BMA and the Bristol Chirurgical Society. He died after a short illness at the age of 68 on 17 July 1965 leaving a widow, a son and a daughter.