French descendant of WWI soldier hears news from Haywards Heath of his grandfather

Sylvie Ewen, who discovered postcards written by a WWI soldier

Sylvie Ewen, from Eastern Road, discovered the postcards at a sale in Clair Hall, Haywards Heath in 2010, but has only just managed to track down the writer’s grandson.

The postcards, sent from French soldier Roger Marboeuf to his wife Aline, son Edmond and daughter Suzanne, explain his recovery from a wounded foot he suffered during the war.

Sylvie, who was born in France, explained: “They say to his wife the foot is getting better, I’m starting to walk again, and can you kiss little ones for me. I have no idea how it got to England, they were shocked and surprised when I got hold of them.”

A postcard written by a WWI soldier from a military hospital to his family

After several failed attempts Sylvie got hold of Charentes Town Hall.

“It’s a little village filled with agricultural people,” Sylvie explained.

She said Christian Marbeouf, Roger’s descendant, was delighted to hear news of his grandfather.

Roger died in 1952, the same year Christian was born.

One letter Roger sent Edmund says: “Kiss my little Suzanne and mum for me I received your card, it made me so happy. I’ll sign off by sending you all my love,Your father who loves you.”

Another reads: “I see that you still think often of your dad, he too thinks of you all always. I recommend that you don’t go climbing any trees as you might fall and break an arm or a leg. I’m counting on you.”

A postcard to his wife says: “My foot is much better. I’ve started walking with ease. I’ll be able to put a shoe on in a few days.”