Copyright does not last forever and once it has expired anyone can use or copy the work.
The length of copyright lasts for depends on several factors, including the type of work and how long ago it was created. Most copyright expires 70 year's after the authors death, but it is always best to check before using anything that does not belong to you.
This table gives further information on the length of copyright under English Law.
The information contained on this website is for general guidance only and should not be relied upon as legal advice.