MYSTERY surrounds a biblical certificate dating back to 1898 which was found in the attic of a Tavistock home.

Christine Allison from Tavistock found the certificate in 2001 when she had her roof replaced at her home on Anderton Lane.

The historic item is a 'Certificate of Merit' and was awarded to Ellen Borlase for a 'Proficiency in Biblical Knowledge' after an examination in May, 1898. The certificate was printed in Stonehouse, Plymouth.

As Mrs Allison is moving to Spain within the next two weeks she said she did not want to take it with her in case it was damaged.

Mrs Allison now wants to try and find out if anyone knows the present family the certificate should be with.

'I found this around seven years ago and put it in the cupboard, but now I'm moving I want to know if anyone knows this woman's present family.

'It's a pretty thing — I think it is a Sunday School certificate as I remember my mother having one hanging on the bedroom wall.'

Anyone with information on relatives of Ellen Borlase can contact the Times at Editorial, 14 Brook Street, Tavistock, PL19 0HD or by emailing [email protected]">[email protected]