A letter from my great grandad written from the Somme.

12 July 1916

My Darling Wife and Child,
Many thanks for your most welcome letter which I am glad to say found me in the best of health. I am very pleased to hear that you are all the same at home. Well dear, I would very much like a photo of the boy if you can spare the money to get one taken. We are having a rather hot time now but it will all help to finish the war, as I think this is the starting of the finish. I have received a letter from Mrs. Lewis thanking me for the card. I will write a few lines as soon as I get the chance, as we are on the move at present and do not get much time to write. We have left the place where I told you I was when on leave. Well dear, the weather has been lovely out here this last four or five days, I hope it will continue now for a couple of weeks to help us along a bit as it is rotten fighting in the rain for the lads, but they are sticking it well. I have heard from Nance and them down London and they are all in the best of health. I am also very pleased to say that my chum is going on well in hospital and sends his very best wishes to you and the baby. I dont suppose I shall meet my brother now for a bit but I hope the war is over when I do. I hope sid is going on alright also mother and dad and all at home, give them my best love when you write to them. Give best wishes to Gran, Grandpa, Dolly and Iris, also to aunt and cousin siss. Well dear, with my very fondest love to you and the baby.

xxxxxxx I remain your ever loving hubby Charles xxxxxxx

Dear
I received the handkerchief thank you!


Great grandad was killed 15th July 1916 before his wife received this letter and never saw his son - my grandad.

He didn't know that the brother he referred to had already been killed when he wrote the letter.

VOICE: Holly Kirby
PIANO: Holly Kirby

Sources:

Our family photo collection

Imperial War Museum website
WW1photos.com
clipmarks.com

NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT INTENDED
I did check the footage and the images before using them but I am very sorry if I have used your images and you didn't want me to. I am gaining nothing from this commercially and created the video only to honour the memory of the brave men who fought in this terrible war.

My website address is http://www.hollykirbymusic.com (less info)