From Barry Runacres.
I WAS recently in Jersey, and, while there, visited the Underground Hospital — now renamed the War Tunnels.

Whoever is responsible for its upkeep is to be congratulated. One is impressed from the very first step taken inside. The place is moved by its history and the ghosts of those who built it.

For me it was a trip down memory lane — and somewhat emotional — as I had been there when the hospital was in its first stages of construction. My wife was visibly moved by what she saw from the photos, written words, videos and in particular the unfinished parts of the hospital. We had an eerie feeling, looking in those parts, that had we called out someone would have answered.

I am reminded of seeing in particular the Russian workers, young and old, their faces filled with despair, being driven along by their German guards.

I sincerely hope that the States of Jersey never allow this extremely important part of the Island’s history to wither away. Come what may, the hospital is a monument to human suffering and to all those people who experienced the Occupation.
Moorselstraat 121,
B3080 Tervuren,
Belgium.