A FAMILY of history buffs are dedicating their lives to helping children learn about those who died for their country in the two World Wars.

Collectors Howard and Sandra Buxton, of Risley, are ensuring that the young men who gave their lives are never forgotten. They are fulfilling their dream to take war memorabilia into schools and give a feel for what life was really like during the conflicts.

Howard, aged 43, was forced to retire from his job as a driving instructor two years ago because of back problems, but he is defying doctors orders to rest to carry out the mission.

The family's rare collection includes RAF and WAS uniforms, aircraft parts, morse code kits, stretchers, gas masks and rattles, and insignias. But it does not sit behind glass cabinets - it is there for the audience to try which the couple says helps children in particular to understand it all.

"The little ones become very enthusiastic and always have lots of questions from what is parafin to what were you doing during the war?," said Sandra.

"We let them try on the uniforms, give out rationed sweets, play air raid sirens, or show them recipes so they can see how potatoes and vinegar were used instead of rationed ingredients in cheesecake for example.

The business, which also travels into communities and elderly people's centres, is a real family effort.

Sons Simon, aged 17 and Christopher, 13, also get involved during school holidays and do much of the research and repair on memorabilia. They also attend old folks groups with their parents - where they do much of the research by talking to people with real war experiences.

"We try to put across that these poor chaps who died were teenagers and it is such a shame because they are gradually being forgotten," said Howard.

"We are trying to keep their memories alive which is why we are targeting schools.

"It is not just about the soldiers, but about also remembering what was going on back home."

Anyone who would like more information about their work, or would like to donate any artefacts, can contact the Buxtons on 07712044389. Their collection will be exhibited at Warrington museum in December.