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WW1 A to Z - T is for Trenches

Newsreel and schoolchildren鈥檚 commentary describe the conditions of British trenches on the Western Front in World War One. A dramatic monologue introduces Private Billy Short, aged 18. He鈥檚 in a trench on the front line, writing a letter home to his mother. His cheery account in the letter contrasts with the harsh conditions he faces in reality. Billy tells us of his everyday duties, such as filling sandbags, cleaning rifles, sentry duty, mending duckboards and pumping water. He looks forward to the next day, when he鈥檚 due to go back down the line for some rest and maybe a bath.

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3 minutes

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