If you only ever read one memoir of the Great War, read this one. Subtitled "Private War Diary of a Siege Gunner", it is beautifully produced in soft back form, including many excellent watercolour sketches and maps produced by the author. There is also a number of good photographs, a roll of honour and a good index among the 216 pages.

Alec Paton was for much of the war the Battery Commander's Assistant in 118 Siege Battery of the Royal Garrison Artillery. The Battery saw a great deal of service once it moved from Edinburgh to France. He tells the story not only of the times in action, but of the many incidents and characters that are so easily lost to history.

A wonderful read that deserves wider coverage.

Out of print but readily available at about £15. Try www.abebooks.com