I am anxious to trace people who have wartime memories of Wakehurst Place, now home to Kew's country garden but used heavily during the

Second World War by the military.

There are reports of Canadian troops based on the estate and some mention of the Sheffield Yeomanry and of a London regiment but the detail is sketchy and confused.

We know, as well, about a clandestine radio station based in the grounds. Indeed, there are remnants of it today and there is talk of a nearby Italian prisoner-of-war camp.

I would welcome any written or photographic details of exactly what happened on the estate between 1939 and 1945 in order that it may be accurately recorded for the archives. Please call 01444 894070 or write to me at the address below.

-John Withall RBG Kew, Wakehurst Place, Ardingly RH17 6TN