BOOKWORMS have been enthralled by his novels for some 40 years.
In that time Leslie Thomas has written some 30 titles achieving international sales figures of more than 14 million.
His most famous book The Virgin Soldiers was published all over the world and made into a successful film.
Most of his books are military adventures, following the fortunes of young men entering the forces.
Thomas was born of a seafaring family in Newport, South Wales.
He and his brother were brought up in a Dr Barnardo's Home after their father was killed in the war and their mother died six months later.
The novelist's first book This Time Next Week was based around his experience at Dr Barnardo's - an organisation for which he is now vice-president - and is currently used as a set text in schools.
Thomas later turned his hand to travel books and was awarded an OBE in 2005 for his services to literature.
He lives in Lymington with his wife Diana.
Name: Leslie Thomas Occupation: Novelist Date of Birth: 22 March, 1931 Local link: Lives in Lymington
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