WITH reference to the news item 'Seeking links with past to celebrate prison anniversary' (November 6) I would like to correct two misleading inaccuracies.

The Hon Consul for the French at Plymouth, M. Alain Sibiril and myself have studied lists of hundreds of officer prisoners of war who were 'On Parole' in Dartmoor towns during the Napoleonic war 1803–1815 (not 'the 300 naval officers who passed through Dartmoor prison' as stated).

Living as they did as free men, within the conditions of their parole, they were generally accepted in the communities where they lived and there were love affairs resulting in children being born. When the wars ended several of them stayed in this country (more than the 'dozen' quoted in your article) and whether or not they married it is certain some of their descendants are among us today. These are the people we are looking for.

Trevor James can be contacted by phone 01837 840149 or by e mail: [email protected]">[email protected]

For Alain Sibiril phone 07774 164 145 or by email: [email protected]">[email protected]

I am grateful to have the opportunity to correct any misunderstanding.

Trevor James

Zeal Head House

South Zeal