Bidford man's restored Gypsy caravan is now a museum exhibit - Warwickshire

From the Stratford Upon Avon Herald

A GYPSY caravan lovingly restored by a Bidford-on-Avon man who recently passed away has been donated to a castle museum by his family.

Bill Birch renovated the caravan, known as a “Burton” wagon, over a number of years. After his death, his family looked for a permanent home for the decorative showman’s caravan.

They offered it to Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury Castle, who jumped at the chance to add it to their collection.

Rachel Robinson, Hartlebury property manager for the council said: “We were very excited about being asked to take on the caravan, it adds another element to our already varied collection. It obviously meant a lot to the family and had been kept in superb condition.”

The county museum holds one of the most varied collections of Gypsy caravans on display anywhere in the country.

Currently home to nine Gypsy caravans, or ‘vardos’ as they are also known, designs include the Bow Top, the Square Bow, the Open Lot and the Ledge.

As well as seeing the vehicles on display, visitors can also listen to audio guides about the caravans which explain their history, and learn more about Gypsy life and culture including which Gypsy words have become part of everyday language.