Historian made up glittering army career

A military historian who faked an illustrious Army career has been found guilty at Peterborough Crown Court of perverting the course of justice.

John Livesey, 57, worked at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford, Cambridgeshire, and told friends and colleagues he had served several dangerous tours of duty and been decorated for gallantry while in the Parachute Regiment. But in reality his Army career amounted to a stint in the Catering Corps from 1971 to 1974.

He perverted the course of justice at the end of a trial in 2004 when he was convicted of benefits fraud.

He had allowed character references based on his fantasies to be presented to the judge. Sentencing was adjourned until 26 August.