Hello Elizabeth
Thanks for the prompt response. I keep searching for a birth for James Patrick Purcell in Birkenhead with no success. As Elizabeth was described as James' 1/2 sister in the 1891 census I wondered if his Father had died and his Mother ?Elizabeth had married John Brannan but have been unable to find a marriage for a Elizabeth Purcell to a John Brannan. I will keep trying and let you know if I find anything.
Thanks again