YOUR help is needed to create a piece of local heritage by tracing the backgrounds of soldiers who are listed on the Chingford War Memorial.

Family history researcher, David Smith of Kings Head Hill, decided three months ago to research the names of those who died in the First World War.

He wanted to find out more because he regretted not asking his grandfather questions about the war.

Mr Smith said: "My grandfather was a sergeant in 6th Artillery Battalion during the First World War and he was shot three times.

"He was shot in the chest and I thought if the bullet had landed three inches to the right he might have died and I might not have been born.

"He had a scar on his shoulder and when I was a child I asked him about it and he said I was shot in the war' and I just accepted it. That generation also didn't like talking about their experiences.

"When I have finished the project I will donate it to Vestry House Museum. It is going to be a piece of local heritage because all we know are the names on the memorial and in Chingford Parish Church."

Chingford MP Iain Duncan Smith is giving Mr Smith a helping hand.

Mr Duncan Smith, a former professional soldier, is interested in military history and is calling on the Government to honour the last surviving First World War veteran by giving him a state funeral when he dies.

He said: "I was fascinated to learn of the Chingford man who was shot down by the Red Baron and that it was a Chingford-trained man who is credited with shooting the Red Baron down.

"This just goes to show richness of our local heritage."

If you can help Mr Smith with tracing the backgrounds of those on the war memorial email him at forest.trees@ntlworld.com or write to him at 3 Kings Head Hill, Chingford, E4 7JG.