“I was saddened to hear that Valmai Holt has passed away, joining her husband Tonie who died in 2024. Tonie and Valmai spent over 40 years touring battlefields around the world and encouraging others to do the same. Known to most people as Major and Mrs Holt, they were a major driving force in battlefield tourism, through books and tours. Together they wrote over 30 books, many of which Pen and Sword were proud to publish over a 30 year period. I was delighted that Valmai was awarded an MBE for services to Military History earlier this year, a richly deserved award for her and Tonie’s dedication. Both Tonie and Valmai were great friends of Pen and Sword and we will remember their friendly professionalism, passion and dedication to the cause.”

Charles Hewitt

Managing Director

Pen and Sword Books Ltd