Mr Bill Haskins was a keen WW1 enthusiast, and began collecting medals in order that he could research ‘The story behind the medal’. His main area of interest was to the Men of the ‘Royal Warwickshire Regiment’ and in particular soldiers who served in the 14th/15th & 16th Btns, who were known as the ‘Birmingham Pals’
These soldiers gladly volunteered for service, many drawn from small areas around the City, and went off to serve in the War a proud and happy band. Sadly many of them would not return. Bill would scour medal fairs across the Midlands, and was also well known to many National dealers, that sent out regular lists. Once in possession of a single medal or group, he would set about the task of researching the soldier, making numerous trips to the Public Records Office at Kew, and later using the power of the Internet to seek out information etc. He visited the Battlefields of the Western Front many times, enjoying the trips over, where he would visit the scenes of battles, and Cemeteries and Memorials, where ‘his men’ were remembered. He also became a collector of battlefield relics, and had an extensive collection, which he was very proud of.
In later life Bill would often recall stories of things he had seen and done on trips to Ypres, The Somme etc. After a short illness in 2013 he sadly passed away in January 2014. He is survived by his wife Christine, and two sons Dean and Matt.
The collection is a fitting tribute to Bill and is coming up for auction at Richard Winterton’s 23rd September sale in Lichfield. Preview for the sale is Monday 22nd September from 4-7pm and the sale commences at midday on the 23rd. The catalogue and live internet bidding can be found online at www.the-saleroom.com/richardwinterton
Please phone the Auctioneers for further details on 01543 251081 or visit www.richardwinterton.co.uk