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Available for over a year

Throughout World War One, Colonel Leonard Messel received almost 500 letters from serving men of all ranks whom he recruited and trained. The intimate letters were sent to his home at Nymans, in West Sussex and describe the thoughts and experiences of ordinary soldiers fighting in Europe. When war with Germany was declared in 1914, Colonel Messel’s German background debarred him from serving overseas. Instead, he joined the Volunteer Movement, the forerunner of the Territorial Army, and devoted much of his time to training locals. Nymans, now administered by the National Trust, is a living testament to Leonard Messel’s love and knowledge of horticulture. But for the chaps of the Fourth Reserve Battalion of “The Buffs”, Colonel Messel was a friend, confidante and constant support. They gave him their respect and affection and he never let them down. Location: Handcross, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH17 6EB Presented by Trevor Nicholls