The write stuff

Children pen book about their D-Day hero friend, 101

- BY GILES SHELDRICK Chief Reporter

A WIDOWED D-Day veteran has inspired a brother and sister to write a book about his life.

Alfred and Lilly Mawson started the biography after being captivated by Second World War soldier Harry Archer's wartime heroics.

They hope Hero Harry — written by Alfred, seven, and illustrated by Lilly, 15 — will inspire children to learn about the sacrifices made by the greatest generation.

It tells the tale of family friend Harry, 101, who stormed Gold Beach in 1944 during the Allied invasion of occupied France.

Alfred, of Ruskington, Lincs, said: “Harry told me all about his time during the war. I wanted to make a book about his life so children can learn about him and other veterans. All of them are really brave and really kind.”

Last year, awestruck Alfred met veterans in France during D-Day commemorations.

The lad was taken to Normandy for the first time by dad Danny, 38, who served for 13 years as a paratrooper. He is now a reservist.

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