THE first of a new series of trade fairs will take place, which should appeal to collectors of military antiques.
Visitors to The Royal Berkshire Militaria Fair will be able to buy a wide range of historic items including medals, badges, swords, daggers, bayonets, helmets, and field equipment.
Also available will be award documents, uniforms, antique firearms and armour, and legally deactivated weapons.
Organiser, Eugene Zaph, says:” It’s all about touching a piece of history.
“I’ve been interested in this sort of thing since I was a boy.
“I used to watch action films with my dad, like A Bridge Too Far (1977), and Bridge Over The River Kwai (1957) both of which fuelled my enthusiasm.
“And one of my friends had a trophy that his grandfather had brought back from WW2.
“It had belonged to the Third Reich, and I was absolutely fascinated by it.”
Soldiers often brought home military memorabilia when they returned from the war, items that they had picked up while serving in Europe.
“I’m particularly interested in German relics, but other collectors have very specific requirements, continues Eugene.
“I know of people who only search for WW2 German belt buckles, for example, or British campaign medals, or even collect only shells of different sizes.
“Items can range from £10 or £20 to, sometimes, thousands of pounds.”
Militaria fairs take place in other parts of the country, but so far there is not the equivalent in Berkshire.
“It’s mostly men that are keen collectors, but there are women too.
“And with a bit of a resurgence in interest currently, I’m excited about opening a new fair here in Berkshire.
“Our first event coincides with remembrance month.
“We have approached the Royal British Legion, and would like to support them with a collection box on the day.”
The Royal Berkshire Militaria Fair will be held monthly in St. Sebastian’s Memorial Hall, Nine Mile Ride, RG40 3BA.
The first one takes place on Sunday morning, November 27.
Doors are open from 9am to 1pm.
Entry costs £4.
There is no age restriction, and under 14s enter free when accompanied by an adult.
The organisers promise a warm welcome, along with tea, coffee, and cake.
For more information visit: www.rb-militariafair.co.uk
