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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鈥檚 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鈥檚 love and knowledge of horticulture. But for the chaps of the Fourth Reserve Battalion of 鈥淭he Buffs鈥�, 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