National Trust Cotswolds manor of eccentric collector

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A National Trust property in the Cotswolds is to feature in a new episode of a BBC documentary series.

Snowshill Manor and Gardens appears in the fourth episode of the fourth series of Hidden Treasures of the National Trust, which airs on Friday, June 5.

The Cotswold property was the home of Charles Wade, an eccentric collector who filled the manor with more than 22,000 objects ranging from toys and tools to rare costumes.

The episode, titled Collectomania, explores the psychology behind collecting and the work involved in caring for Mr Wade’s extensive archive.

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Snowshill Manor's collections and house manager Jennifer Rowley-Bowen (c) Blast Films Production Team (Image: Blast Films Production Team)

Jennifer Bowen, collections and house manager for the Gloucestershire Property Group, said: "We are delighted to be a part of this year’s Hidden Treasures of the National Trust and spotlight the extraordinary collection of Charles Wade.

"It takes the team so much time and dedication to care for such a vast collection so it’s wonderful to see it being shared with the nation."

The programme focused on the conservation of a rare samurai suit of armour made for a child, which was later displayed at the British Museum during a temporary exhibition on samurai culture.

This piece forms part of Wade’s internationally significant costume collection, elements of which are currently featured in Snowshill Manor’s Threads of Identity exhibition.

The episode also introduced viewers to a volunteer who helps preserve Wolf’s Cove, thought to be one of the earliest recorded model villages in the UK.

Specialist external conservator Mike Flannery was also featured, demonstrating his work on restoring the manor’s unique doorbell—one of many items crafted by Wade himself.

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