TWO Dutchmen are appealing to Times readers in West Devon for information on a war grave of British soldiers who lost their lives in the second world war.

Local historian Han van Arensbergen and photographer Paul ten Broeke want help in their research about the stories of the soldiers laid to rest from one of the last main battles on the Western Front in February, 1945 — 'Operation Veritable'.

The operation's aim by the Allies in and around the Reichwald in East Holland was to create a breakthrough to the River Rhine and punch in hole into Germany. Many soldiers lost their lives in this battle, about 4,000 on the allied side and 8,800 on the German side.

In the Gennep area there are two cemeteries where soldiers of the Commonwealth are buried; Ottersum (eight graves) and Milsbeek (210 graves)

The pair wish to create a roll of honour for those soldiers buried at the Milsbeek and Ottersum war cemeteries in East Holland.

After the disastrous setback to the allies in October 1944 at Arnhem their forces regrouped and February 1945 saw the start of Operation Veritable, one of the last main battles on the Western Front.

Han van Arensbergen told the Times: 'Our aim is to create a 'roll of honour' for the soldiers buried in our Milsbeek and Ottersum War Cemeteries, and of course for those who fell in the area of Gennep.

'Many of whom do not actually have a grave.

'In 2015, 70 years after world war two ended, we think it would be a great gift to the those who fell, that their names, faces and the sacrifices they made will always be remembered.'

'We are looking for, and need your help in, gathering more information in order to create a complete and where possible a comprehensive history of the soldiers buried here.

'We are looking for relatives, descendants or friends of the soldiers who are buried here in our war cemeteries.

'Please help us in our quest to gather as much information as you possibly can provide.

'We would greatly appreciate your help.'

The pair both speak and write fluent English.

• If you have any information call Han van Arensbergen, Bergstraat 10, Gennep on + 31 485 512461; Paul ten Broeke, Perron 12, Gennep, T: +31 485 801504 or email him at [email protected]">[email protected]