Second World War farming veteran celebrates 99th birthday

During the Second World War, Leslie Gilbert was initially called to work in the mines but, as a farmer, he was later deemed essential to the war effort at home. So he continued farming to help feed the nation in a time of crisis

Chris Brayford
clock • 5 min read
Devon farmer Leslie Gilbert recently celebrated his 99th birthday.
Image:

Devon farmer Leslie Gilbert recently celebrated his 99th birthday.

A Devon farmer who helped to feed the nation during the Second World War has recounted how his love for farming has helped to shape his long and illustrious life in the sector. Leslie Gilbert, from...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Farm Life

The RASE Lectures: the volume of food production must now make way for value

The RASE Lectures: the volume of food production must now make way for value

Nutritionist Ali Morpeth and former Defra Secretary Lord Deben discuss how Lessons from the past must shape the country's food future

clock 22 March 2026 • 4 min read
EXCLUSIVE: Harriet Cowan - "Behind the tidy Instagram squares, there are 5am alarms, frozen pipes and vet bills that make your stomach drop"

EXCLUSIVE: Harriet Cowan - "Behind the tidy Instagram squares, there are 5am alarms, frozen pipes and vet bills that make your stomach drop"

In the last of a three-month exclusive column for Farmers Guardian, Clarkson's Farm star Harriet Cowan talks about coming full-circle back to farming and how the industry is part of who she is

clock 22 March 2026 • 4 min read
Women's History Month: Farming women you should not forget

Women's History Month: Farming women you should not forget

From Hannah Hauxwell to Beatrix Potter, women have always worked on the land, but who paved the way and changed agriculture for the better?

clock 22 March 2026 • 2 min read