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

Loose pig trotting streets of Wigan

Loose pig trotting streets of Wigan

Traffic was held up in Wigan, Greater Manchester, today (January 23) due to a loose pig roaming the streets

clock 23 January 2026 • 1 min read
Regrets, opportunities and carving your own path - Q&A with Clarkson's farm star Harriet Cowan, and podcasters Rebecca Wilson and Charlotte Ashley

Regrets, opportunities and carving your own path - Q&A with Clarkson's farm star Harriet Cowan, and podcasters Rebecca Wilson and Charlotte Ashley

As prominent voices in the industry, digital editor Emily Ashworth delves a little deeper into the lives of Harriet, Rebecca and Charlotte

clock 23 January 2026 • 1 min read
Returning to the family farm: How one arable farmer is balancing soil health, wind turbines and food production

Returning to the family farm: How one arable farmer is balancing soil health, wind turbines and food production

Ben Brooke has always said he would return back to the family farm in Cambridgeshire. Now, he is running it alongside his father. Emily Ashworth finds out more

clock 22 January 2026 • 7 min read