Saint-Omer and the British Connection

By Richard Cumpston Jones

After the horrors of the frontline "My spirits were instantly lifted when I saw the glorious Cathedral and felt much happier" TNH Smith Pearse from his lecture notes on the town of Saint Omer 1917. Saint-Omer and the British Connection takes you on a rich historical journey spanning eleven centuries, and one that has never been written about before. Saint-Omer, an attractive and once important ville fortifi e in northern France has an extraordinary British thread that weaves through each century. It was a cach for the fleeing Saint Thomas Becket in 1165. It grew rich and powerful as the first English staple town in 1314. It yielded enormous religious and intellectual clout as home to the English Jesuits, fleeing the repercussions of the Reformation. It fell as a result of the French Revolution. Napoleon based many of his troops here in his invasion plans of England in 1803. In more recent times it was a central hub for the British Expeditionary Force during the first two years of WW1. And if that isn't enough, it is also the spiritual home of the RAF and was the starting point for Douglas Bader's bid for freedom in 1941. Written in an easily readable, approachable style, Saint-Omer and the British Connection also includes useful information on hotels and recommendations of places to visit in the town and the surrounding area. "Packed with information, clearly presented and written in an easily readable style." David Knight, archivist, Stonyhurst College "Written with huge enthusiasm and terrific research, it's an essential read for those interested in local history and travel in France." Tim Donovan, consultant editor, property manager and bon viveur 292 pages, including rare black and white photos and illustrations. Please note that there are no colour pictures in this book.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1470046733
• ISBN13: 9781470046736
• Release Date: May 2013
• Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
• Length: 292 Pages
• Weight: 1.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 8.5" x 11.0"