Overview

• The Imperial War Museum announced the closure of the Lord Ashcroft Gallery, home to the world’s largest collection of Victoria Cross and George Cross medals, scheduled for May 31, 2025.
• Lord Ashcroft, who loaned the medals to the museum under a 15-year agreement, has formally requested an extension to September 30 and threatened legal action if the term is not honored.
• Veterans, including Iraq War hero Johnson Beharry, protested the closure, describing it as disrespectful to the sacrifices of those honored by the medals.
• The collection, comprising 240 Victoria Crosses and 41 George Crosses, is set to be moved to a secret vault if no alternative host is found after the closure.
• Ashcroft has revoked a clause in his will bequeathing the medals to the nation and is exploring offers, including from abroad, for future display of the collection.