Couple turn home into army museum

John Hodge is a former member of the Scots Guards and started collecting memorabilia about 18 years ago

A couple from Invergowrie, near Dundee, are throwing open the doors of their home to allow the public to see their collection of Scots Guards memorabilia.

John and Betty Hodge have been collecting items related to the regiment for about 18 years.

The medals, uniforms, weapons and pictures now fill their spare room, the hall and up the stairs.

The Hodges aim to raise at least £1,000 for Erskine, a charity supporting former armed services personnel.

The collection will be on display on Saturday for one day only.

Mr Hodge, 73, joined the Scots Guards in 1953 and served in Germany, Borneo, Malaya and Singapore.

Just snowballed

He said: "The Scots Guards are very special. They were raised by the Marquess of Argyll in 1642 on the orders of King Charles as a bodyguard and we've got more battle honours than you can shake a stick at.

"We are so proud of our regiment and the VCs that they've won since 1856 when the Victoria Cross was introduced.

"Ask any Scots Guard and they're proud of their regiment."

The Hodges have built up their collection through shopping on eBay, going to sales and donations from friends.

Mrs Hodge said: "It started about 18 or 19 years ago, just a few little bits and pieces we got and a rifle John had.

"It started with medals, buttons, buckles and then it just snowballed into uniforms, anything and everything connected with the Guards and various other regiments.

"We just have great fun doing it."