ONE of the world’s leading publishers of military history is launching an appeal to mark the centenary of the Great War.

Helion & Company – founded in 1996 by Duncan Rogers – has teamed up with the Warrington Guardian to ask readers who are in possession of collections of photographs, letters or diaries dating back to the Great War (1914-1918) to get in touch.

“The thinking behind the appeal – which we are delighted to be launching with the backing of the Warrington Guardian – is to attempt to unearth material of potentially significant historical importance which is currently in private hands,” says Duncan.

“The appeal is also an opportunity for Helion to honour the legacy of the people who were there and who committed themselves to achieving a better future for all of us. I wish to make a concerted effort to tell their stories so they are not overlooked through the passage of time.”

Duncan is pledging to publish any finds which prove to be of significant interest, but is keen to emphasise that he is only looking for collections of letters and photos (not just one or two) and that they must date back to 1914-1918.

Duncan adds that whilst he cannot guarantee that everyone who comes forward with material will have it published in a book, he would be grateful to anyone who takes the time to look through their treasured heirlooms and to contact Helion & Company directly.

n People who can help with the appeal should call Duncan Rogers at Helion & Company directly on 0121 705 3393 or info@helion.co.uk or Christian Ewen on 07870 737675 or cdeadline@gmail.com.