INVERCLYDE schoolchildren will be delving into the history of First World War — thanks to a book about a famous donkey.

The Tele has highlighted the brave exploits of Jimmy, a battle-scarred donkey who helped to save many lives during WW1.

Greenock WW1 historian Sam Morrell a member of the Cameronians’ Scottish Rifles Regimental Association, has been on TV and radio talking about Jimmy.

He heard that a book had been published about the donkey, who was adopted by the Cameronians — many of whom were from the Inverclyde area — and wounded three times by shellfire as he carried ammunition and wounded soldiers.

Sam has arranged for the publishers to send copies of the book so that he can give them to local schoolpupils.

‘Jimmy, Donkey of the Somme’ is written by Clare Lawrence and is described as ‘a true story of war, courage and kindness’.

Author Clare, who lives in Peterborough, decided to write the book after taking her dog for walks in the local Central Park where Jimmy is buried.

She said: “Jimmy’s grave inspired me. I contacted the local museum and they sent me information about him.” “I am going into a primary school locally here to talk about the book. They are also organising the RSPCA to visit, together with an actual donkey. It’s great that Jimmy’s story is still inspiring so much interest.” The book features Geordie, an 18-year-old boy fighting at the Somme in 1916. In the heat of fire and destruction, he notices a German pack donkey in labour.

Risking his life in a temporary truce, Geordie saves the new born foal and raises him to be a favourite among the troops.

Clare said: “Defying the odds of survival, this story tells the tale of two unlikely friends depending on each other to get through the Great War.” She has two children, one of whom has autism, and works part-time for the National Autistic Society.

Sam said he is delighted about the book.

He said: “It’s great to see all of this interest in Jimmy. I’m sure the children will be really interested in the story.” Youngsters from Peterborough’s Southfields Primary attend a Remembrance Sunday service every year at Jimmy’s burial place, where there is a memorial which they help to maintain.

After the war, Jimmy accompanied the Cameronians to Peterborough where he was cared for by a local woman and took part in fundraising activities for many charities before dying of natural causes in 1943.

Sam said: “Jimmy received the Dickin Medal, an animal award for bravery, and he was made an honorary sergeant with three stripes on his bridle.” To see the TV programme on the internet, go to itvanglia.com-newscatchup ‘Jimmy, Donkey of the Somme’ is published by Badger Learning. More information is available at www.badgerlearning.co.uk