Yesterday I attended an event organised by the Collectors Club (advertised in the last but one "Standard"), an opportunity to visit an authentic replica of a WWI trench system located only a short distance from (and under the flightpath of) Gatwick Airport). The reconstruction is the work of Andy Robertshaw, a military historian who is also the curator of the Royal Logistic Corps Museum at Deepcut. Andy is the author of "The Trench", which desribes the reasons behind the replica, how it is based on a real location and time, (Spring 1917 in the Ypres salient) and its construction. The trench itself then provides the setting of an account of an average 24-hour period of duty in the front-line. A follow on title "The Trench under Attack" is due to be published in November.
On hand were expert guides who conducted visitors through the trench layout and there was the chance to talk to the WWI re-enactors who were "manning" the trench for the occasion . A few yards away from the "real trench" was Britains slightly smaller version and it was an interesting opportunity to compare the two, and be impressed by the level of detail on the model. It was also a chance to see the new medical team figures and the impressive first-aid post trench segment. I had the opportunity to have a close look at the new German MG08 team, whose release is imminent - and very good it looked too - definately one for the collection!. It was also very pleasant to have the chance to talk about "toy soldiers" in general and Britains current and future output in particular.
There was quite a turnout, I don't know if any other Club members were there. There was a school party being shown how casualties were evacuated from the front-line, and refreshments were provided throughout the day. All-in-all a fascinating experience. Many congratulations to the Club for providing the opportunity. I hope they will be able to offer similar events in the future. Also a very special thanks to Andy Robertshaw and his team, the re-enactors and especially the ladies who kept everyone well supplied with restorative cups of tea throughout the day. Well done!
On hand were expert guides who conducted visitors through the trench layout and there was the chance to talk to the WWI re-enactors who were "manning" the trench for the occasion . A few yards away from the "real trench" was Britains slightly smaller version and it was an interesting opportunity to compare the two, and be impressed by the level of detail on the model. It was also a chance to see the new medical team figures and the impressive first-aid post trench segment. I had the opportunity to have a close look at the new German MG08 team, whose release is imminent - and very good it looked too - definately one for the collection!. It was also very pleasant to have the chance to talk about "toy soldiers" in general and Britains current and future output in particular.
There was quite a turnout, I don't know if any other Club members were there. There was a school party being shown how casualties were evacuated from the front-line, and refreshments were provided throughout the day. All-in-all a fascinating experience. Many congratulations to the Club for providing the opportunity. I hope they will be able to offer similar events in the future. Also a very special thanks to Andy Robertshaw and his team, the re-enactors and especially the ladies who kept everyone well supplied with restorative cups of tea throughout the day. Well done!
