To demonstrate the sorts of treasures that have survived against the odds, Diane Brook has supplied a selection of wills from her own collection that have connections with Ireland and the West Country – both places renowned for the destruction of many of their wills in 20th century incidents.
Brush up your skills for reading old handwriting with the free guide at www. nationalarchives.gov.uk/palaeography/
See Diary Dates (pages 68-69) for listings of online course providers and tutorials. Pharos, SoG and IHGS all provide help with palaeography skills, periodcally running tutorials or courses