A CONSERVATIONIST expert is holding a series of archive surgeries in Hereford for amateur archivists who want to preserve old letters, photographs and other valuable memorabilia.

Herefordshire Council's Archive Service is staging the free sessions over the next year at the Record Office, in Harold Street.

Senior conservator Lorna Lee will be on hand to give expert advice on how to preserve materials.

"Do you have some precious old family photographs that are curling up at the edges?" she asked.

"Are those letters from the trenches in need of some tender loving care?

"If you have your own family archives and are not sure how best to look after them, help is at hand.

"The aim of the surgery is to advise those who want to look after their own photographs, scrapbooks and memorabilia so that these can be preserved for future generations.

"Valuations will not be given and I will not be able to repair items personally, but if people bring along their possessions I will be able to talk through with them."

The free sessions will be held on August 13, September 10, November 12, January 14 and March 11 from 9.15am-1pm. Appointments are by reservation only. To book contact Lorna Lee on 01432 260750.