Generally, the national museums are good at replying to enquiries and have dedicated staff to do so. However, it may be a bit harsh to criticise and generalise about the smaller independent museums which are, generally, volunteer run.

In a previous life (!), and pre-internet days, I was involved in setting up and running the Tangmere Museum and we were always inundated with letters (and phone calls) seeking information about a whole range of related or in-related topics. Sadly, we had to filter – especially when there was an expectation on time, postage costs etc. – or where no definite benefit to the museum could be perceived. Harsh, but that was the position. And, we all had full time jobs and a museum to run.

Even now, and often via this forum, many of us get requests to help with this, that or the other. Personally, I always try to help people but it often can involve a lot of time – especially when it involves seeking out documents, information or photos. Sometimes, it just isn’t possible – and I suspect that is much the case with some museums. Plus, volunteers are…well…volunteers. And there shouldn’t be an expectation of attention to what can be many queries a week, although some of these museums are exceptional in their attention to queries.

Of course, in respect of Britain at War, we also get many queries and do answer all of those even if we can’t directly help.