"During the early 1914-1918 war, the George Family arrived in Liverpool as refugees. The then Town Clerk of Liverpool, Mr Edward Pictmere, who lived in Mount Hall in Llanfair arranged for them to live in a house in Bridge Street, still known today as Belgium Hall.

A well-known local character Fred Jones (1888-1968), with his mother, ran a grocers shop on Bridge Street. At the outset of the First World War, Fred was called up to join the army under what was called the Derby Group, which stated that only sons would not have to enlist for six months.

In six months time, Fred was before a tribunal again but on this occasion he was given one month to sort out his affairs before having to enlist. As Fred put in his diary, he was not sorry to go as things had not been running too smoothly at home owing to the fact that he was very much in love with Octavia - a daughter of Madame George - and was walking out with her.

During his early years in Llanfair, Alfred George was too young to join the Belgian Air Force and started work as a vehicle mechanic apprenticed to Llewellyn Jehu who opened the first garage in Llanfair, now Bridge Service Station.

On his return to Belgium, Alfred George ran a bicycle repair business. At the time, the Ford Motor company were looking for agents to sell and repair their vehicles and - because of his command of the English language and the fact that he had an engineering background received in Llanfair - Alfred became the main Ford agent in Belgium.

After returning from Mesopotamia, Fred Jones, who had always been keen on walking (and signing) decided in 1921, at the age of 33, to walk from Llanfair to Belgium. In his diary, he obtained official stamps from the towns and villages through which he passed. He also describes the destruction left by war.

After many years, Fred met Alfred George and his wife. He also met Octavia - and her husband.

In September 1967, the family George presented Llanfair with a plaque in gratitude of their stay in Llanfair. The plaque can be seen on the left hand wall of the institute as you enter the hall through the main doors."

Written by David Mills-Evans from Llanfair Caereinion.