What began with childhood questions about old photographs and family stories became a lifelong fascination with the people behind the records. This is the story of how curiosity, grandparents and one life-changing discovery led me from family history to professional research.

To most people, Killerton is a historic Devon estate. To us, it was a childhood kingdom of ancient trees, conker-filled pockets, Apple Days and endless adventures with Grandad. Looking back, I realise we weren't simply exploring its history, we were quietly becoming part of it.