IT'S a handwritten note from the King, who steered the country through the Great War, to a Hull soldier.
Private Vivian Tidy, then aged just 21, served with 4th Battalion, East Yorkshire Regiment, was sent the note from King George V shortly after the Germans surrendered in November 11, 1918.
In the signed letter, dated and written on Buckingham Palace headed notepaper, King George V acknowledges the suffering of Private Tidy and other soldiers like him.
It is clear from the content of the letter that Private Tidy, who died in 1976, was taken prisoner during the war, although his descendants are not aware of the full circumstances, which led to King George V choosing to make correspondence.
His son, John Tidy, 76, of Grandale, Sutton Park, hopes Mail readers will be able to help him in his family research project, which coincides with the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War.
Mr Tidy said: "We know he was taken prisoner by the Germans.
"I can remember my father talking about Ypres, but that's about it. He didn't talk about the war just like a lot of other soldiers who survived. I'm afraid I didn't ask.
"Unfortunately, it is only now, years after he has died, that I am starting to ask questions."
King George V wrote: "The Queen joins me in welcoming you on your release from the miseries and hardships, which you have endured with so much patience and courage.
"During these many months of trial, the early rescue of our gallant officers and men from the cruelties of their captivity has been uppermost in our thoughts.
"We are thankful that this longed for day has arrived and that back in the old country you will be able once more to enjoy the happiness of a home and to see good days among those who anxiously looked for your return."
Mr Tidy said his father was born in Calcutta, India. His father, Horrace, was a regular soldier with the Scottish Rifles.
It is not known if he served in the Great War.
After the war, Private Tidy returned to Hull and resided at 163 New Bridge Road, off Holderness Road, east Hull.
He gained employment as a plumber and had three children.
Mr Tidy's brother, David, died in 2006. His sister, Inez, died in 2009.
"My father and the others who fought were very brave men," he said. "As far as I can make out, he volunteered to go to war.
"It is important that we remember them all, especially now in the centenary year."
In 1917, King George V became the first monarch of the House of Windsor, which he renamed from the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha as a result of anti-German public sentiment.
"Not many people can say they have in their possession a handwritten letter signed by the King," added Mr Tidy.
Anyone able to help Mr Tidy with his research should call 01482 825530.
