Droylsden’s own showcases rare WW1 find on national television

Droylsden war memorabilia collector Ray Fricker has made a proud appearance on ITV’s This Morning, showcasing one of the crown jewels from his fascinating collection - a rare World War One German naval plate.

Ray, well known in the local community for his private war memorabilia room, appeared live on the popular daytime show at 11:15am on Tuesday, 30th July, alongside auction expert Dan Hatfield.

The item that caught national attention was an original WW1 German plate, retrieved from a sunken Derfflinger German warship after more than two decades underwater. The plate has been part of Ray’s extensive personal collection, which has attracted local visitors and military history buffs alike.

During the segment, Dan Hatfield, This Morning’s resident auction expert, examined the plate live on air. Impressed by its condition, provenance, and historical significance, he valued the item at an impressive £2,000, a large jump to the £23 Ray payed for the plate.

Ray, a passionate custodian of military history, said the plate is just one piece in his decades-long effort to preserve stories and artefacts from the world wars.

Ray’s war memorabilia room, located in Droylsden, has become something of a hidden gem in Tameside. Ray has everything from uniforms and medals to maps of the local area. His collection has been built over years of careful research, trades with fellow collectors, and visits to military auctions.

With increased interest following the ITV segment, Ray hopes to continue sharing his collection with not only local residents in Tameside, but with people all across the country.