Well dear reader last night marked the return to pals meetings for me. I have been AWOL for some time after a family crisis (now sorted I hope )

The South Staffs pals group seems to be growing in number and 'we' are indeed very, very lucky to have people in the group with such fantastic knowledge.

Some of the work people pull out of briefcases and holdalls is staggering.

I only started researching my GF's history within the S/Staffs 1/6 regiment but I have already been to Ypres and Hill 60, it was a very strange feeling being at these places knowing that my GF had been there so long ago.

I just hope that everyone has the chance just once in their lives to attend the Menin gate.

I suppose that living in England I am lucky in that I can be there (the Gate or the battlefields) in less than a day.

Must dash dear reader I have the Foo Fighters, The Who and Tears for Fears booming outta the Hi-Fi and I should be cleaning the Bathroom whilst her-in-draws is out shopping with daughter. (No rest is there )