A TALK on the Royal Navy Brigade during the First World War formed the centrepiece of the latest meeting of Epping Probus Club.

At the meeting, club member and Epping resident Mike Hayter read extracts from the diary of his uncle Henry Hale, who served as an Able Seaman during the war.

The diary's accounts included Henry's training at Chepstow, his channel crossing to Dieppe and the sight of horse-drawn artillery on the battlefield.

Mr Hayter described how his uncle was appalled at the widespread destruction of buildings, including churches, and the horror of warfare, and was thanked for his speech by his fellow Probus members.

The next meeting of Epping Probus will be The Ladies Summer Lunch on June 16 when the speaker will be Georgina Green whose topic will be Keepers, Cockneys and Kitchens.

Anyone interested in joining the club should contact Peter Francis on 01992 573 188.