King George V and Queen Mary embark on the boat for home, 1917 (c)

Photograph, World War One (1914-1918), 1917.

In July 1917, King George V and Queen Mary spent a fortnight visiting the Western Front . According to 'The Illustrated London News', the King spent a day with 'General Sir Herbert Plumer's Army on the scene of its great victory at Messines Ridge and Wytschaete Ridge. His Majesty wore Field Marshal's service uniform and a steel helmet - a necessary precaution in view of the fact that he was frequently within range of German shells. Some, indeed, fell not very far away, but the King was indifferent to danger.'

From an album of 76 official photographs.