IT was of much interest for me to read 'Snapshots of life in the Trenches' (Times, November 7).

Taking pride of place in my sitting room, placed in an open position on his sea chest is my all time favourite ornament, my father's camera. This was the family camera throughout my childhood, just known as 'Daddy's camera' although only used by Mummy!

Father was leading stoker on the Victory from November 12, 1912 from whence I presume he obtained this Kodak Autographical, being on several submarines until retirement on November 13, 1934.

In the early 70s when the film was neither available or able to be printed I rescued it as mother was an expert refuse disposer. I had a fascination for this camera because it was different, having never seen one like it and just thought it was beautiful.

I have a large number of boxes of photos going back well before me, family snaps with a very few of father in his uniform as a visitor in far off places. The war was never mentioned.

Thank you Sheila for your words.

Helen F Smart

Okehampton