A RELIC from the Tyne Valley’s wartime past has been discovered in a loft.
Haydon Bridge man Peter Parker was insulating the roof space of a property he owns in the village, when he found a baby and infants’ gas mask from the Second World War.
Dated 1939, the appliance was designed to cover much of the child, and could be fastened to a parent’s body.
“It’s in good condition,” said Peter. “Most if not all of the parts appear to be intact, and it’s a fascinating relic of wartime life.”
In an age where people are wearing face masks rather than gas masks, Peter is not planning to re-use the appliance, which is stamped as UK government property.
He added: “It could well have been in the attic since the war. I would like to see it go to a museum or another interested body. It’s a great piece of history and should be looked after.”
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