A RETIRED nurse has written a book unpicking the history of the First World War’s forgotten medical heroes.

After a varied career mainly working in Community Hospitals and the community as both a registered nurse and midwife, Dolgellau-born Menna Lloyd Jones undertook some key roles as a clinical nurse specialist for Betsi Cadwaladr.

Following her retirement in 2011, Menna turned her hand to writing and historical research.

She has now released her first book, The Forgotten Heroes of World War 1, describing the lengths people went to treat those affected by the horrors of war in a “revelatory account” of these healthcare champions.

“In World War One, some 100,000 healthcare volunteers supported the troops oversea and the physically and mentally wounded on their return home,” explained Menna.

“These volunteers were organised into ‘Voluntary Aid Detachments’ and the VADs as they were known, although largely forgotten today, played a crucial part in the Great War.

“The VADs of Meirioneth, like VADs all over the United Kingdom, worked tirelessly at home and abroad to care for the sick and wounded.

“They made sure that they were clothed, that there were enough bandages and splints available; they ensured that the sick and injured were transported safely from A to B.

“Some gave their service for free, while others gave up their homes to ensure that sick and injured soldiers were given a safe place to recover.”

“Some gave their lives to save others. We have no idea what they had to endure. However, it is important that they are not forgotten heroes and their story deserves to be told.”

The book is available in most bookshops in Meirionydd and surrounding areas and proved a new challenge for Menna.

“It was new, completely new for me,” she explained.

“I didn’t know what to expect but it was an exciting set of challenges and a different set of stresses from nursing.”