MAY I thank every one in the Hanley Castle, Upton-upon-Severn on Severn and Worcester area for all their help and kindness during my recent holiday.

My main reason for the visit was because all my ancestors seemed to have originated in the village of Hanley Castle.

I was lucky enough to meet Dr Philip Tufton, the churchwarden, who is a mine of information on the village's former inhabitants. I was also able to find the graves of my ancestors.

Perhaps some of your readers could come up with some information on Mary or James Simmonds and their descendants. I would be very grateful.

LEN SIMMONDS,

3 Station Street, Pensarn LL227SD