'One of the most remarkable items' - WW1 helmet at Chailey Repair Cafe

Friday, 14 October 2022 16:00

By Martyn Grenfell @martyngee

John and Pam Main from Oakgates Fruit Farm at Scaynes Hill brought the World War One helmet, complete with bullet hole to Chailey Repair Cafe last weekend

At this month's Chailey Repair Cafe, the team saw one of the most remarkable items they have ever seen - a helmet with a bullet hole in.

The helmet was brought into the repair cafe by John and Pam Main, John's grandfather Charles Gilbert (always known as just Gilbert) was a member of the Royal Sussex Regiment during World War 1.

His helmet was too big and when a bullet passed through the helmet, skimming his scalp he was sent home. Gilbert survived but always claimed his hair never grew there again.

Almost all domestic items needing repair are welcome at Chailey Repair Cafe. The next event takes place on Saturday 12 November.

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