大象传媒

My interest in World War 2 is not only due to the fact that this era is a major event in global history, but I was also born during this traumatic time. Much of my personal material has been recorded in a few articles that I have contributed.

I, as a whole, deplore the glorification of war, and am not a bloodthirsty person. But I cannot deny that war happens and affects people in different ways from all walks of life. In many cases in a most miserable way.

I consider myself fortunate to have survived as did my parents. In fact both of my parents lost their fathers whilst small children. One died in civvy street of an illness. The other died of wounds received at the Battle of the Somme in 1916. In fact I have visited his grave in France.

You say write something about yourself. I am reluctant to say too much as this is on the internet
and I am a very private person. However, what I have said may give some indication as to why I am interested in the war.

I also feel that this project is an excellent one. My regret is that contributions will cease acceptance while there are many people alive who
may therefore not be able to submit their stories. These may be excellent tales to tell that we shall never know about. Although some museums i.e. Imperial War Museum might be interested.

The above writing about myself requested for this page, might convey a morbid impression of me. In fact,I have quite a sense of humour and am very musical. Particularly partial to 1950's rock 'n' roll. When I was with a concert party called The Leverstock Green Players, on three occasions, we entertained at The Royal Star and Garter Home at Richmond for disabled ex-servicemen. The show was organised in conjunction with some very hard working and dedicated people, who like me were employed by Lucas Aerospace, formally known as Rotax. After the performance I met some of the residents. It made me realise that the charity for these people was worthwhile. I think that some of the charity work extended to The St. David's Home at Ealing as well.

I am also interested in film making, and am a member of The Hemel Hempstead Movie Makers. Many years ago this organisation was spellbound by a fascinating talk by Mr. E. A. Candy. He had, during his working life, been a newsreel cameraman. A chunk of his material was shot during World War 2. At one point, he was reported missing.

During 1995 a special VE Day was held, commemorating 50 years of the end of the war in Europe. I can't recall if this incorporated VJ Day. Both Leverstock Green Players and Hemel Hempstead Movie Makers were active that day. A special performance of a variety/revue show was performed by The Leverstock Green Players, and Hemel Hempstad Movie Makers made a documetary of the events in our local area, together with verbal comments from some members of the public.

Strictly for the local historians.The house I moved to at Hemel Hempstead, after leaving Islington in 1950, was called Belswains Farm House. I understand that this won praise and a possible award for the way it had been decorated for the 1945 or 1946 End of War Victory celebrations.

Contributions by me for this project with photographs submitted on my behalf by Herts Libraries and hemlibrary.]
Alan French:War Baby:Interview.(Amended)Part One.
Alan French:War Baby:Interview.(Amended)Part Two.
(Part Two also incorporates a letter written by L/Cpl Will Farrow.)
The Three English Brothers French.
Uncle Jim:Send Him Pictorious!
The White Figure - A True Wartime Ghost Story.

I conclude by wishing you all good luck and that one day, before it is too late, there is eventually peace on Earth.

Alan French.