Le Havre, a French port city, played a significant role during the Great War as a logistical hub for the British Expeditionary Force (BEF). The article explores the unique events of 1917 and 1918 when British soldiers, Belgian military personnel, and French civilians participated in vegetable competitions at Jardin St Roche. This initiative was part of a broader program to cultivate unused land around military camps. The article delves into the cultural and social history of the BEF, highlighting how activities like gardening and vegetable shows contributed to soldiers' morale and endurance. It also examines the interconnectedness of the home front and western front, and the evolving historical perspectives on the BEF's organization and soldiers' experiences behind the lines.

The article is a review of 'Bergen-Belsen 1945: A Medical Student’s Journal' by Michael John Hargrave, published by Imperial College Press. It discusses the importance of archival sources like Hargrave's journal for understanding historical events, in this case, the liberation of Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. The review highlights the potential impact of the Imperial War Museum's decision to charge for archive access, which could limit historical research and understanding. The journal itself provides a detailed account of the liberation and the medical challenges faced, offering insights into the psychological impact of the Holocaust on survivors. The review also notes the emotional undertones in Hargrave's writing, despite his professional tone. The proceeds from the book's sales support Rotary International’s PolioPlus programme and Amnesty International, and the review advocates for continued public access to such important historical documents.