Since settling in France in 1991 following his retirement as a teacher of French and Business Studies at a comprehensive school in Nottinghamshire, the author has been able to devote much of his leisure time in the pursuit of data concerning the Battle of the Somme in 1916. He spends four months each year researching and interviewing people from all walks of life who live or visit this corner of Picardy which was invaded three times between the years 1870 and 1940. Being physically part of the great continent of Europe, France has, like so many countries within its boundaries, had to defend its frontiers against the invasion of enemy troops. It is the resultant change in politics, history, literature and culture which interests the author and incites him to further study.

The author has written two books on the Battle of the Somme, the first dealing with the events of the 'Big Push' on the 1st July 1916, the second concerned with the events from the 2nd July to the end of the campaign in 1916. Both reveals the fortitude, courage and patience of the British 'Tommy' and fellow soldiers drawn from throughout the British Empire. It is noticeable that the belligerents showed their fortitude in different ways, the German in the Teutonic disciplined tradition, the Frenchman in his ardour to crush anyone who dares to invade the sacred soil of France, the dogged spirit of the Australian and New Zealanders, the flare and grit of the Canadian and South African. And finally, the British who fought in the old traditions of our long history and could endure the most horrendous conditions with grumbles and good humour. These are some of the facets of the great offensive in 1916 which have fascinated the author and it is not surprising he chose to settle in the country which both attracted and held his attention for over forty years.