I AM writing to enquire if any of your readers would be prepared to help me with information concerning research which I am undertaking for a book and postgraduate history studies.

My studies are a follow-on from undergraduate dissertation work involving the training of US troops for the D-Day Landings in the south west between 1943 and 1945.

The book will be a work of fiction, but based upon many of the actual events that took place during the training exercises. I would also like to introduce a more human element to the story by looking at how local people coped with the 'friendly invasion' and to see particular elements of this relationship through the eyes of civilians (children and adults) and both British and American military personnel.

I would be most interested to hear from anyone who may have a story to tell or, indeed, any information which they would be prepared to pass on relating to this particular field of interest. I would also like to hear about general village and town life in Devon at that time (eg customs and traditions).

Jennifer Murch

4 Stretton Close

Sutton Farm

Shrewsbury

Shropshire, SY2 6EY