ALBERT HOWARD

Dad was posted to Egypt in the early part of the war where he caught malaria and was sent to Italy to recuperate. He was made quartermaster at a prisoner of war camp in Milan. All the prisoners were Italians, they  grew tomatoes galore and created fantastic meals for everyone. The camp had a huge store of Brandy that had been confiscated and when they found out they asked dad if they could have some. Eventually the CO allowed them one bottle. They made an amazing meal so they were given as much brandy as they wanted after that. Dad also learnt to drive in Milan. He was told that if he could drive from one side of the city to the other without hitting anything he would pass... he did. As the war ended the great opera houses opened again and the British troops were invited to come to them giving him a lifetime love of opera. The skiing photo has always been a favourite of my brothers and I. 

Terry. If you can send your current email address to us at info@ournewhaven.org.uk I can send you retouched copies of the photos we scanned for you. I've managed to get most of the marks, spots and creases out! Andy-Editor

Dad would have been 100 years old on the 12th of October this year. The family were living in Sussex Place at the time of his birth, moving to Chapel Street later on, then Third Avenue.