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.”