Research and copying service

If you cannot visit the record office yourself - why not ask us to do the research for you?

Our researchers will be able to conduct the research in the most effective way and will advise you on further possible lines of enquiry.

Please note that our researchers cannot give legal opinions or advice and should not be asked to do so.

What can the service do?

• Genealogical Enquiries

  These can range from a fully researched family history to help with a particular problem or a search for that elusive missing link.

• House Histories

  Though these can be difficult and time consuming depending on the records available. It is helpful to send a plan showing the exact location of the property.
  

• Local History

  We hold a wealth of material which can be used for research into a particular locality either for general interest or more specialised use.
  

• Geophysical Surveys

  A wide range of ordnance survey, tithe and enclosure maps is available for copying when a site requires detailed investigation.
  

• Transcriptions

  If you find old handwriting or Latin difficult, don't despair, use our service to obtain a transcript or translation.
  

• Photocopying

  Copies of documents can be ordered subject, of course, to the law of copyright and the state of the documents.

How Do I request a Search?

At the bottom of this page you will see that a Research Request Form is available to download from the 'on-line forms' box. Alternatively you can write, e-mail or telephone us, providing the details as outlined on the form.

How much will it cost?

Research/Copying Fee - We charge £20.00 per hour pro rata, plus copying costs and postage if applicable, but for Businesses the fee is £30.00 per hour pro rata plus copying costs and postage if applicable.
If you would like to place a time limit, please feel free to do so.

Urgent Requests - We answer all enquiries in order of receipt, to be fair to all, as soon as possible within our 15 working-day target period. However, if your enquiry is urgent we will begin the work at once, but make a higher charge of £40.00 per hour pro rata, or for Businesses £60.00 per hour pro rata.  Copying costs and postage charges are extra.

Postage and Handling Charge - The full postage rate will be charged for all UK and overseas mailings.

Copying Costs

• All microfilm prints are 30p per page (A3 or A4).
• Black/white photocopies of original documents are 50p per page (A3 or A4).
• Colour photocopies of original documents are £1.00 (A3 or A4).
• Copies of catalogues, lists and extracts from reference books are 10p per page (A4).
• Computer printouts are 30p per page.
• Digital images of records are £2.00 per image. 

Payment - Payment can be made by sterling cheque or money order, or credit/debit card. We cannot accept payment in foreign currency or non-sterling cheques/money orders.  The details of how to pay can be found on the invoice, which is sent to you on completion of the research or copying work, along with a copyright form if this is required. On receipt of the completed copyright declaration and your payment, copies will be put in the post.