Family seeks return of donated wartime uniform after theme park closure

A family that contributed a nurse’s uniform from wartime for exhibition at a theme park has expressed their desire for its retrieval following the permanent closure of the venue. The uniform was worn by Anna Scutt’s grandmother, Monica, during her employment at a convalescent hospital, where she encountered her future spouse, who had sustained injuries while on duty in World War Two. This VAD (Voluntary Aid Detachment) uniform was part of the “Britain in the Blitz” historical exhibit at Flambards, located in Helston, Cornwall, which ceased operations in early November. Flambards indicated its willingness to return family heirlooms but voiced apprehension about “opening the floodgates” for numerous claims. Ian Cunningham, CEO of Flambards, stated: “There are one or two items that have come to us either on loan or as donations and some of these go back many, many years… but I don’t want to open the floodgates.” He added: “Many people believe they have a legitimate claim.” Cunningham further explained: “Our problem is that we have no evidence of this.” He also mentioned: “I’ve had one claim for a piece of wrecked aircraft. I’m afraid the place is full of them.” Ms Scutt recounted that her grandparents’ meeting occurred following her grandfather’s injury. She elaborated: “His Jeep had got too close to a mortar. It was blown up and he was injured really badly,” adding, “There were 29 holes in him. They didn’t think he would survive.” Ms Scutt continued: “He was sent to recover at a hospital in Berwick-upon-Tweed and Grandpa just said he saw this beautiful nurse and said ‘that’s the girl for me’.” The pair remained married until Monica Scutt’s passing two decades ago, subsequent to which her family presented the uniform to Flambards. “Grandpa never talked about his wartime experience apart from to say I came back, meaning so many of his comrades didn’t,” Ms Scutt stated. She conveyed her family’s wish for the uniform’s return, explaining that “it means so much to the whole family because none of us would be here without that uniform”. Mr. Cunningham’s decision to permanently close the attraction stemmed from its financial losses. He remarked: “We have answered every claim we’ve had – which is quite a few to be honest.” He concluded: “Most of the collection was purchased from the previous owners.” For updates, follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights are reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding their external linking policy is available.