A HISTORIAN'S search for information about his war hero grandfather has ended at a North-East regimental museum.

Martin Bashforth, a social and family historian working in the archives of the National Railway Museum, in York, was keen to learn more about his grandfather, Thomas, who came from Darlington.

His search led him to the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Museum and Durham Art Gallery, in Durham, where his grandfather's medals have been put on display.

Now he will tell the story of the 11th (Pioneers) Battalion DLI in the First World War in a talk at the museum.

Pioneer battalions were first formed in 1915 so each Army division had its own labourers.

The soldiers dug trenches, repaired roads and, when required, fought as infantry.

Mr Bashforth said: "My grandfather was a sergeant in 11 DLI.

"He was killed in action in France in March 1918, and my interest in these DLI Pioneers grew from my research into his life and death.

"I contacted the DLI Museum, particularly because my grandfather's medals are on display there in the museum's medal room, seeking more information about this battalion and I ended up being asked to give one of the DLI's Saturday afternoon talks."

The talk is at 2pm on Saturday. Tickets are £4, £3 for concessions, £2.25 for children and £2 for season ticket holders.

To book, call 0191-384 2214.

Published: 18/05/2004