Wings Over the Western Front: the First World War Diaries of Collingwood Ingram

With the commemoration of the beginning of the First World War, this was an appropriate time to publish this fascinating book. In 1880, Collingwood Ingram was born to wealthy parents which allowed him to pursue a passion for natural history in Britain and abroad. He became one of the finest ornithologists of his generation.

With the outbreak of the War, Collingwood joined the army, and was initially based in Kent. In 1916 he joined the Royal Naval Air Service as a compass adjuster, an essential role for aiding plain navigation, and was posted to France. It is from this time, that he started his diary. Because of the nature of his work and his rank, he had plenty of time to pursue his passion for birds. The diary is made up of selected descriptions of daily activities. He describes the war situation, and then covers his bird observations as the war progresses to victory. His observations are very detailed, often with good descriptions of behaviour. As well as being an excellent field ornithologist, he was an accomplished artist and his diary is full of fascinating pencil drawings that accompany his text.

It is a fascinating read and excellent value.

Book reviewed by Derek Toomer