A councillor has backed a volunteer's call for action over the alleged neglect of historical artifacts at Royal Gunpowder Mills.

The volunteer, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of the sack, showed the Guardian the storage area at the historic site in Waltham Abbey on Tuesday.

Previous exhibition pieces such as rocket parts, Second World War radar equipment, Victorian fire engines and other unique items are unprotected and kept in poor conditions.

Management at the site, which has been in operation for 300 years, is in talks to sell part of the site to PGL, a children’s holiday company.

Cllr Rod Butler, of Honey Lane ward, has spoken out in suppport of the volunteer.

He said: "The problems with much of the site being lost will have to be addressed and a proper home for all of the historical artefacts now lying in pretty bad conditions will have to be found.

“I hope that a satisfactory solution can be found for all of the problems that face the Royal Gunpowder Mills.

Cllr Butler visited the site with his grandchildren on Thursday.

“I was pleased to see so many families and children enjoying the train and truck rides and it was good to see the youngsters making and firing rockets that they had made," he added.

“The site is unique and it gives children a taste of science, history and fun in one great experience.

“Together will all of the other councillors I will do my best to see that the great activities and artefacts on the site are preserved."

Royal Gunpowder Mills has been approached for comment.