IT’S a search that’s been ongoing for more than a decade for former engineer and company boss Alan Duffy.

But he’s determined to track down a Blackburn woman, who has connections with his family, and reunite her with some old photographs.

His quest began at a family funeral in 2001 and while he has been picking up more clues along the years, he is now asking Bygones readers to help him clear the final hurdle.

Alan, who lives in Blackburn, wonders if anyone knows the whereabouts of Joyce Anna Walton, nee Neilson, who was born in 1962 and worked at one time at Southlands old people’s home in Shear Bank Road, which is now closed.

She was the daughter of a May, or Mary B, Neilson, nee Lightbown, who, it is thought, had lived at one time in Cabin End Road, Knuzden.

Said Alan: “I was at my aunt Mary’s funeral in 2001 when a cousin struck up a conversation with a young woman, who did not give her name but said she was the granddaughter of Mary’s sister Nellie.

“Then she mentioned that she had no photographs of her mother or family, which was a big regret for her.

“My cousin found some pictures of this mystery lady’s family. Indeed, they were some of my ancestors, and asked me to trace her and pass on the pictures, which we know she would love to have.

“This apparently simple task has proved extremely difficult, but I did make a breakthrough recently when I at last discovered her name.

“Maybe there are people out there who know Joyce’s whereabouts, who can put her in touch with me.

“I just want to hand over the family photographs she has wanted for so long.”

Alan can be contacted on 01254 261557, or at jaduffy@byopenworld.com