We salute the great British spirit in our fifth collectors’ edition, published to commemorate 100 years since the beginning of the Battle of the Somme. The victories, people and traditions of the Armed Forces are celebrated, from the mud of Agincourt to the triumph of Trafalgar, the red hackle of the Black Watch to the much-loved Spitfire.

Letters home, amusing and poignant in turn, and remarkable photographs reveal life on the front line; we remember the canine, equine and feathered soldiers who served alongside their masters and brought comfort to everyone they encountered; and admire the continuing work of Official War Artists.

We remember those who served at home, from the Women’s Land Army to the Home Guard and the secret resistance that prepared for invasion, plus the extraordinary efforts made to safeguard our art treasures.

Finally, we remember the millions who made the ultimate sacrifice and are commemorated in a dozen ways, from bridges and boots that bear famous names to the hundreds of memorials.

Britain through the Wars is available now at £9.99 from WHSmith, Waitrose and good newsagents.