Category: Salonika Stories

Stories from or about the Macedonian campaign, 1915-1918.

Celebrating Norfolk Day : a Salonika connection

Having lived in Norfolk for just 28 years I am still an ‘incomer’ but, even so, I would like to celebrate the very first ‘Norfolk Day’ of my adopted county. The challenge, then, is to find a Norfolk connection although this is by no means obvious as you won’t find the Norfolk Regiment – a fine county regiment – in the BSF’s order of battle. Continue reading “Celebrating Norfolk Day : a Salonika connection”

How to fly and preserve a First World War combat veteran aeroplane : SE5a

This is a fascinating article about preserving and flying a Royal Aircraft Factory SE5a. This type of aircraft was flown by the RFC (and then the RAF) in Macedonia from about November 1917 onward. Continue reading “How to fly and preserve a First World War combat veteran aeroplane : SE5a”

New Stanley Spencer Exhibition in Cookham

A new exhibition at the Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham explores the often complex relationships he forged with the group of people who supported him and enabled his existence financially, emotionally and artistically, what drove them to collect his work and how he was not the distant figure some may believe him to be. Continue reading “New Stanley Spencer Exhibition in Cookham”

BBC Four on Sunday 4th at 10pm : Arena – Stanley (Spencer) and His Daughters

The artist Stanley Spencer, who served with the BSF and produced the marvellous paintings at Sandham Memorial Chapel (NT), is the subject of a television documentary as part of the Arena strand on BBC Four at 10pm on Sunday 4th February. Focussing as it does on his family and private life, it is unlikely to feature much about the Salonika campaign – but you never know! Read more about the documentary here:

Do you have a spare £1750?

If so, this fascinating album and diary – for sale on eBay – may be just the thing for you! Serbia 1916-17 – The WW1 diary of Kathleen May Jenner Davies of Gloucestershire, covering her time near the front line as a volunteer with the Serbian Relief Fund. Continue reading “Do you have a spare £1750?”

Remembering R4/0666436 Pte Jesse Willoughby, ASC

It is not my intention for this website to become an advertising outlet for eBay, but when items belonging to a named member of the BSF appear for sale, it would be a shame not to give him a mention. It always saddens me when these things are no longer in the possession of the family, but hopefully these will go to a good, appreciative home.

Continue reading “Remembering R4/0666436 Pte Jesse Willoughby, ASC”