CREATIVE writing students at Harlow College have been researching World War One and looking at real life stories and photographs from soldiers in the trenches.
They have been inspired to create their own stories and poems which are accompanied by photos and memorabilia that members of the public have contributed following an appeal on social media.
Our photograph shows some of the students who have been taking part from left to right bottom row Beth Gourpinar and Theo Dunstone; second row Willow Donovan and Olivia Armes and back Mica Isaacs.
A particularly poignant contribution is a letter written by 18-year-old Bombardier John McDonald to his mother from the battlefields during World War One. Sadly he died the same day that he wrote it – November 16th, 1915.
A copy of this letter was given to us by Mrs Pat Kidman, of Saffron Walden. John was her grandmother’s brother and her great uncle.
November 16th, 1915
My Dear Mother,
I received your letters last week or rather one last week and one this, I also got one from Amy, but not written back yet. I am glad everything is going on so well. About the leave which you enquired about, of course I expect I shall get one sooner or later but of course I don’t know, I hope so anyway. If I do I shall let you know if possible as soon as I can. Has it finished raining in your part pf the globe yet. I think it has just about finished this way. But a nice frost has taken its place, but that is a lot better than water or mud. You must excuse scribble on that account for my hands are very nearly frozen but I can manage to guide this pencil into some semblance of writing. I hope it’s readable anyway. That’s pretty bad news about Mr Howes isn’t it. I bet poor old Bill is upset a bit. Just lately I have been looking about for Frank Burdett and I expect I shall find him soon, anyway I’ve found his battalion. Well Mother, I can’t write any more this time so I must close with love to all.
I remain,
Your loving son
Johnie.
P.S. You need not send me that shirt as I have got some now.