In August 2005 the Western Morning News published a letter from a Mr John A Blake of Bodmin in response to a news item regarding the finding of a human skull on a beach.

Mr Blake also mentioned that he worked on a farm at Hallsands, near Start Point in South Devon, during the Second World War.

Through this column and your readers, could I ask that if any of them know the current whereabouts of either Mr Blake or surviving members of his family, then please would they contact me as soon as possible.

This request is in connection with my research for a forthcoming book on the colourful and sometimes eccentric history of the former (now demolished) Hallsands Hotel – I believe that Blake Brothers builders, part of the same family, may have been involved with the construction of the hotel in the early 1900s, or with its later extension.

I can be contacted at hallsandshotel@hotmail.com or on 07904 449982.

Nick Gilman, Kingsbridge.