A VICTORIAN book with a 125-year-old inscription to a West Devon lady could be reunited with her descendants — if they can be found.
The book's inside front page features the inscription: 'Presented to Mary E Hill by the committee of St Mary Tavy's National School' and is dated May 1876.
The book, featuring the complete works of Shakespeare, was bought at a second-hand book stall in London by Cambridge man Rodney McCormick, who has appealed to the Times for help in tracing Mrs Hill's family.
'This lady must have been very special because I think it would have been an expensive book at the time,' said Mr McCormick.
He believes Mrs Hill could have been an English teacher at the school which would explain why she was given the gift of the complete works of Shakespeare.
Mr McCormick said he would like to trace any relatives of Mrs Mary E Hill and return the book to them.
'It only cost me £4, I would be so happy if someone from the family could have it because family history is important,' he said.
'It's a lovely book and it's in good condition.'
Mr McCormick said he often scoured bookshops for interesting old second-hand books and on this occasion only noticed the inscription when looking through the book at home.
Anyone who has any more information about Mrs Mary E Hill can contact Mr McCormick on 01223 353089.