To a young private from Bradford serving in World War Two, they were treasured mementoes of those he'd left behind.

A lock of hair, a picture of a loved one, a marriage certificate, and family snaps of a holiday in Blackpool provided William "Billie" Ratcliffe with fond memories of home.

But, for whatever reason, after the war the mementoes ended up discarded in a plastic bag, hidden in the stairs cupboard of a flat in Scarborough. When the flat's owner died, the photographs and personal effects seemed destined for the bin as the property was being cleared by its new owner.

But Barbara Ford could not bring herself to throw the well- preserved photographs and documents away.

She contacted the Telegraph & Argus to see if Mr Ratcliffe or his relatives could be traced.

She explained: "They were just in such nice condition I thought it was a shame to throw them out.

"There is his release book and some wedding photos and a marriage certificate.

"I thought that if somebody had come across some things of mine I would have liked them handed back."

The last known address for Mr Ratcliffe is recorded as Largs House in Kershaw Street, Bradford Moor. In his soldier's service book his father James is recorded as living at Grandage Terrace, in Manningham.

Mrs Ford added: "I bought the flat after the owner passed away. I think she was called Gladys Ruston.

"Whether Mr Ratcliffe actually lived here I don't know, but I thought his family or relatives might like to have these as a reminder of him."

Any relatives of William Ratcliffe who are interested in obtaining the photographs should call the Telegraph & Argus on (01274) 729511, ext 261.

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