The Enchanting World of a B&B Owner’s Doll Collection

Picture this: a quaint seaside bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of Blackpool, Lancashire, England. Now imagine stepping inside and being transported into a mesmerizing world filled with over 1,000 dolls. This is the magical realm created by Martin Scott Price, a 67-year-old B&B owner whose passion for doll collecting has captivated guests from all walks of life. His collection is not just impressive in size but also in its ability to spark joy and wonder in both children and adults alike.

Martin’s fascination with dolls began when he was merely five years old. It all started with a simple gift from his cousin—a pair of Punch and Judy glove puppets that are now over a century old. These charming relics ignited a lifelong hobby that has grown into an expansive collection cherished by many. For Martin, each doll holds a story, a piece of history that he proudly shares with those who visit his guest house.

Today, Martin travels across the country, delighting audiences with outdoor shows featuring his beloved dolls. His performances are not just about entertaining; they are about preserving a unique cultural heritage and sharing the whimsical stories behind each piece. The dolls have become more than mere collectibles; they are characters in their own right, each with a role to play in Martin’s enchanting narratives.

Key Takeaways

• Martin Scott Price has been collecting dolls since he was five years old.
• His collection includes over 1,000 dolls housed under his B&B in Blackpool.
• Martin uses his collection to entertain and educate through outdoor puppet shows.

A Journey Through Time and Collectibles

Walking into Martin’s basement is like stepping into a time capsule. Nestled beneath his guest house lies an astonishing array of dolls, each carefully curated over decades. Among the treasures are an original Sooty Bear and a Pinocchio replica, each piece meticulously maintained to preserve its charm and character. The sheer volume and variety of the collection leave visitors in awe, often uttering phrases like “Wow, I’ve never seen so many dolls together!”

For Martin, these dolls represent more than just childhood memories; they symbolize a lifelong passion for storytelling and creativity. Over the years, he has amassed not only dolls but also French marionettes, automatons, and magician’s props—each adding to the rich tapestry of his shows. These items are not just collectibles; they are tools that help him weave intricate tales that captivate audiences young and old.

The Heart of the Collection

The centerpiece of Martin’s collection is undoubtedly his beloved Punch and Judy puppets. These century-old figures hold sentimental value as the starting point of his journey into doll collecting. Their inclusion in his outdoor shows brings them to life in ways that static displays cannot. The puppets’ timeless antics continue to enchant audiences, proving that some forms of entertainment truly never age.

In addition to these classic puppets, Martin cherishes a particular crocodile puppet used in one of his most popular routines. The skit involves the crocodile mischievously stealing sausages from a pan—a simple yet effective performance that elicits laughter from adults and playful screams from children. It’s these moments of shared joy that drive Martin to continue his work as both a collector and performer.

Sustaining the Legacy

As much as Martin loves sharing his collection with others, he is acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead. At 67 years old, thoughts of retirement occasionally cross his mind. However, he is determined to keep his collection intact for future generations to enjoy. Ideally, he hopes to find a permanent home for it—perhaps in a purpose-built museum or council-owned site—where it can be appreciated as a whole rather than sold off piece by piece.

The prospect of dispersing such a vast and unique collection weighs heavily on Martin’s mind. He dreams of seeing it preserved as part of Britain’s cultural heritage—a testament to the enduring appeal of dolls and puppetry as forms of art and entertainment. Until then, he continues to delight audiences with his shows, ensuring that each performance leaves an indelible mark on those who witness it.

Final Thoughts

The story of Martin Scott Price is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering love for storytelling through dolls. His remarkable collection serves as both an artistic expression and a historical archive—one that brings joy to countless visitors each year. As we look towards the future, let us hope that Martin’s dream of preserving this enchanting world becomes reality so that generations to come can experience the magic firsthand.