A POSTAL history archive which showcases Barrow's and the Lake District's heritage from the Edwardian era to the mid-20th century is about to be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

The collection of 4,500 postcards show off those working hard at Vickers, and those letting off steam paddling around the beaches of Walney.

Other pictures taken further into the Lake District catalogue a range of events from Sir Malcom Campbell’s Blue Bird K4 on Coniston Water and the Miss England II disaster on Lake Windermere to closed railway lines, defunct stations and tram depot.

“It shines a light on how people lived their day-to-day lives,” said ephemera specialist Robert French.

“Working images include steel works, blacksmiths, woodcutters, farming, quarrying, mining, weaving and fishing.

“There are postcards of harbours including ship launches, sanatoriums, schools, colleges, courts, police and the army.

“These sit alongside pictures of early tourism in the region.

“Rare and unusual examples from the Edwardian era and early 20th Century include rock climbing, skating on frozen lakes, swimming and beach games – in full Edwardian attire.”

There are also images of pre-WW1 biplanes, hydroplanes and two images of the Vickers' Naval Airship Number One in Cavendish Dock at the Port of Barrow in September 1911.

“The airship was nicknamed ‘Mayfly’, in that ‘it may fly one day’,” said Mr French.

“It never did.”

The postcards will feature in Richard Winterton Auctioneers’ Stamps & Postal History Sale on May 13, starting at 9.30am and broadcast online live from The Lichfield Auction Centre.

Viewing for the sale is offered strictly by appointment only on May 12, between 9am and 4pm.

To book an appointment or for auction enquiries, telephone 01543 251081 or email office@richardwinterton.co.uk.

Visit www.richardwinterton.co.uk.