Author: Jo Laver

  • The Battle of Hastings

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    The Battle of Hastings is an event that is firmly etched into the history of the British Isles, and the year of 1066 is arguably the best known in English history. This massively significant battle was to result in the death of King Harold. The war period itself is known as the Norman Conquest. Here…

  • Autumn Symbolism In Coats of Arms and Heraldry


    The rich imagery of Autumn symbolism features on many coats of arms, and heraldic symbols often include animals and plants that we associate with Autumn, ‘the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’ Here are some of the more commonly-found symbolic images that you can often find on coats of arms. Apples The drinking ritual of ‘wassailing’…

  • Who’s Who In Your Family?


    Do You Know Who’s Who In Your Family? Do you know your first cousin from your second cousin once removed? We are all familiar with the standard terms for our immediate family members but do you really know who’s who in your family?  Mother, father, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, cousin are all terms that most…

  • Personalised Crystal – How To Care For Your Collection


    Personalised Crystal – How To Care For Your Collection. Crystal has long been a prize for its quality, durability and beauty. That’s why it is such a beautiful gift for a loved one, especially when personalised with your own special message. But like everything, it is important to ensure that your crystal gift is well…

  • Getting Started With Your Family History Research


    Getting Starting With Your Family History Research. Researching Your Family Tree? The following article has been kindly provided by Jen Mortensen of Parish Chest, a great online genealogy shop. On the site you will find lots of interesting hints tips and facts to help you start your family tree, as well as links to a huge…

  • Why Family Is Important – Your Top Reasons


    What does family mean to you?  In the hustle bustle of everyday life it’s easy to forget to stop and think why family is important and what it’s all for. Therefore, for fun, we launched a facebook compeition to celebrate families and what they mean to us. To enter, entrants are encouraged to state, in…

  • Clovelly in Devon – Visit The Beautiful Cobbled Village

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    Clovelly, Devon The beautiful and picturesque cobbled village of Clovelly Devon is one of the county’s most popular visitor attractions. Its steep myriad of streets and lanes wind their way past fascinating houses and traditional shops, down to the quaint and tranquil harbour below. Our Hall of Names surname histories used to be available int in…

  • 6 Tips for Engraving Gifts


    It is great to be able to personalise your gift but if you think carefully about engraving gifts, it will go from being a much appreciated thought to a truly inspired choice! As well as including a personalised coat of arms, here are a few tips to consider. View our full collection of crystal is…

  • Jersey War Tunnels – 23 Reasons To Visit

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    Jersey War Tunnels is no ordinary attraction; it is a spine-chilling reminder of a dark time in Jersey’s history. RESISTANCE & LIBERATION During World War II, the Crown left Jersey defenceless and the Island became occupied by German forces. As a result, Jersey War Tunnels are a product of five long years of Occupation; they…

  • Independence Day – 10 Facts About The 4th July!


          Independence Day – 10 Facts About The 4th July! 1. The 4th of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence (or Independence Day) in the United States in 1776. 2. It was at this time that the thirteen American colonies declared themselves a new nation, the United States of America,…

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