Albert, France

The town is a popular destination for those wishing to tour the memorials, cemeteries and museums relating to the First World War and in particular the Battle of the Somme in 1916.

My brother and I had already decided on visiting but we subsequently learnt that our grandfather was there in 1915 and perhaps after he recovered from his injury that year as I know he did return to France.

The museum, situated in a long tunnel, really depicts the horror of the war and I am fortunate in having some unused postcards illustrating the war-torn town including the cathedral with the 'leaning virgin' which is shown on the mural. The top of the spire today is just about visible behind the building.