Growing militaria fair moves to Sindlesham Court
A FAIR selling military memorabilia is on the move.
Later this month, the Royal Berkshire Militaria Fair will hold its first event at its new venue, Sindlesham Court.
Originally launched in St Sebastian’s Memorial Hall, the fair has grown, and needs to relocate to a bigger space.
Organiser Eugene Zaph, says: “It’s been going really well.
“Lots of locals have been coming along, and we are expanding.”
People who visit the military fair are able to buy a wide range of historic items including medals, badges, swords, daggers, bayonets, helmets, and field equipment.
Also available are award documents, uniforms, antique firearms and armour, and legally deactivated weapons.
“When countries are liberated, people tend to grab any souvenir they can find,” says Eugene.
“Folk may have interesting items tucked away, that came from the battlefield.
“After the Second World War, British soldiers weren’t allowed to take keepsakes, but the Americans weren’t restricted.
“They took lots of things, so there are some amazing militaria fairs in the US, with unusual items like wartime toilet seats .”
The Royal Berkshire Militaria Fair saw an interesting find of its own recently.
“A gentleman brought in an old German field sterilisation kit, used by medics on the field,” says Eugene.
“Goodness knows how he came by it, but he was very pleased when a collector decided it was just what they were looking for, and bought it from him.
“And there is plenty to entertain kids – we recently bought some cammo netting for our children to make a camp.”
The fair will be held every two months.
In March it falls on Mothering Sunday.
“There may be one or two angry mums that day,” Eugene jokes.
“But a number of women enthusiasts do enjoy coming along.
“And it’s a social event – a good place for retired people, and exservice men and women to meet up.
“I’m a collector myself, and I’m loving watching it grow.”
The next event is at Sindlesham Court, on Sunday, March 19, from 9am through to 1pm.
Refreshments are available, with a hot food outlet onsite.
Early bird tickets, for entry between 9am and 10am, cost £6. After 10am, entry costs £4.
■ For more information, visit: www.rb-militariafair.co.uk