Watford Observer: Members of the West Herts Home Guard. A photograph of the West Herts Home Guard prompted an email from Wally Instrall, from Leicestershire.

Mr Instrall said: “With regard to the photo of the West Herts Home Guard I can recognise only two of the people.

“In the centre of the fourth rank from the bottom, the tallest officer in the centre of the three with peak caps was Lt S Hughes who, shortly after this photo was taken, was put in charge of the Watford Platoon of the Herts Sub Area Mobile Reserve.

“This unit was a commando platoon (all young men), one of five throughout Hertfordshire and was attached to the Royal Artillery stationed in Cassio Road, Watford, who provided army transport once or twice a week for Home Guard manoeuvres anywhere across the county.

“It was expected that the Home Guard unit would go through the Royal Artillery assault course at least once a week (that sure made us fit).

“Jimmy Perry was a member of the unit and he is included in the photo exhibited in the Watford Museum for many years which probably is still there. I am seated with Jimmy behind me.

“The only other person I can recognise is Capt Collins who is seated sixth from the left in the front row, he was well know local classical singer.”