The WW1 Christmas Ad

I assume you've seen this year's Sainsbury's ad - most people have. It reminds everyone of the Christmas truce of course - that time in 1914 where they were no longer Germans or British (or whatever other nationality - there were, after all, many other countries providing soldiers) but just men. Or, more accurately, boys. So many were under 30, and even under 20.

I'm a little torn about this event being used to publicise a supermarket - millions died, so buy your sparkling wine here, seems a little odd to be honest; on the other hand, many will see it as a lovely tribute - the advert itself was fairly good, after all. What do you think? Do you feel that it's appropriate? Inappropriate? Somewhere in the middle?

Last chance to order that special Christmas gift!

Hi everyone,

A reminder that if you would like to order research for Christmas, I can only accept Christmas orders on or before 21st November. Don't miss out on the chance to order a very special Christmas present for someone (or even yourself!)

21st November is the very last date I can accept orders for Christmas - so get them in soon!

WW1 Commemorations

There's a lot of resources now available to learn about and commemorate the First World War.

If you want to learn more there's a couple of sites that it might be worth you looking at. For some striking images, I recommend the Google Cultural Institute page. Whereas, for a look at all sorts of aspects of the First World War, including remembrance, artwork, interactive guides, and resources for schools and pupils, you need not look further than the BBC History World War One homepage.

I hope you find in an interest in WW1 - and perhaps your family's part in it - that lasts beyond this week.

A Poppy

This is a little something I put together for this year's Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day. 100 years since the whole world changed forever. (By the way, feel free to use this image as long as you don't edit it in any way.)