A man from Exeter has discovered a 62-year-old copy of the Express and Echo while stripping the carpets at his new home.

The newspaper, dated May 5, 1939, was printed just four months before the outbreak of the Second World War, so although it is not financially valuable it is an interesting historical document.

From reading the paper it is clear the threat of war loomed large, and the front page featured the growing tensions between Germany and Poland.

The newspaper also contains a story about the distribution of gas masks, and a plea for people to join the Territorial Army.

Warwick Eyre, who found the old newspaper, said: “I think the old Echo is fascinating.”

Do you have a story about the regional press? Ring 0116 227 3122/3121, or
e-mail [email protected]