Corporal Haggis: The Wartime Diary of a Muscovy Duck, September 1943-May 1945

For the Royal Scots Greys who are manning a tank named 'Doun Tha Whaha', the plump Muscovy duck looks like supper - a tempting delicacy in the midst of the Italian campaign of World War II. But how can they eat a defenceless creature who snuggles down in their tank throughout a battle? As Smudger the driver discovers, they can't.

This is the true story of Haggis, the Muscovy duck who became a friend instead of a feast - a comrade who shared the men's fears, fatigues and anxieties during five months of fighting in Italy; he later sailed with them to Glasgow, and even became involved in the invasion of France, finally progressing through Belgium to Holland until peach was declared in May 1945. Eventually promoted to corporal, he was 'awarded' the Italy Star and Long Service and Good Conduct medals; attached to an old bootlace around his neck he wore the cap badge of the Royal Scots Greys.

This delightful tale was initially related to Julian as a bedtime story by her father, the commander of Doun Tha Whaha. Frank and Julian Akers-Douglas now share this remarkable story, allowing readers of all ages to be captivated and enchanted by the exploits of this heroic drake, Corporal Haggis.