'Our Second World War Collection Became A Museum'

1940s fanatics Linda and Paul Britchford tell Kate Chapman how a government grant enabled them to realise a long-held dream

- Kate Chapman

Linda Britchford has always had a passion for history and antiques, but it wasn’t until she met husband Paul, 50, that her interest in Second World War really took off. Together they have amassed a vast, unique collection of wartime memorabilia, from toys and household goods used on the Home Front to medals and uniforms – there’s even a Vickers machine gun and an Anderson war shelter.

Keen to share their interest, they would bring their artefacts to numerous 1940s events. Inspired by the enthusiastic response they received, particularly from children, the couple decided to launch a travelling museum. It took them all over the country as they used their collection to teach children about every aspect of wartime life.

Now, thanks to a £200,000 government grant and a plot of land donated by a local farmer, Linda and Paul are finally able to fulfil a long-held ambition of opening a static living history museum at Freiston Shore, in Lincolnshire, which is also home to some of the UK’s best-preserved Second World War coastal defences.