Alan is the author of Pro Patria Mori: The 56th (1st London) Division at Gommecourt, 1st July 1916

A meticulous researcher, his book must stand as the definitive account of this costly diversion. He explains “my mother’s uncle 4540 Rfm Charles Robert Tompson from Watford joined the 1/9th London Regt (Queen Victoria's Rifles) on the outbreak of war. At 7.30 a.m. on Saturday, 1st July 1916 he climbed out of the British trenches opposite Gommecourt and trudged forward; he was never seen again. He is one of the 'Missing of the Somme' whose name is recorded on the Thiepval Memorial that sits glowering over the battlefield.”

That was the backdrop on BBC TV a couple of years ago for Alan’s memorable exchange with the descendant of the General in command that day, one Dan Snow.