INTERNATIONAL diplomat and best-selling author Lord Paddy Ashdown will be giving a one-off talk about his latest book, The Cruel Victory, at King’s College in Taunton.

It tells the story of the largest action by the French Resistance during the Second World War, which started on D-Day and culminated in the Battle of Vercors in 1944. 

Although much of 2014 has been spent commemorating the centenary of the First World War, Lord Ashdown is aware this year also marks the 70th anniversary of D-Day and founding of The Soldiers’ Charity. 

He said: “By giving this talk at King’s College I am pleased to be able to make a contribution to the work of the British Army’s national charity, who as well as serving soldiers, also support the veterans of the Second World War and all post-war conflicts.”

There will also be an opportunity for audience members to have copies of the book signed by the author at the event on October 24. The signing session is at 5.30pm, while the talk is at 6.30pm.

Tickets are £20 each and are available from ABF The Soldiers’ Charity on 01392-492650 or by email at southwest@soldiers|charity.org (proceeds from ticket sales will go to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity).