I would like to establish contact with the family of a Maltese citizen who was a ship company member of HMS Hardy in World War II. I only have his first name, that of Giuseppe, who survived at the first battle of Narvik on April 10, 1940. Giuseppe, like other survivors, was eventually repatriated to the UK which led to them being greeted on the Horse Guards Parade by Winston Churchill.

My father, Cyril Cope, then aged 21, was also a survivor and knew Giuseppe. They were both next to each other on the Horse Guards Parade.

I am researching information to write a book about HMS Hardy and her crew in the famous battle which occurred early into World War II.

I intend to approach my book by way of narratives supplied by any existing crew members, of which I have found two still with us, as well as those provided by families associated with those brave sailors.

I have so far gathered many stories and accounts, but felt it was my duty to include any information regarding Giuseppe and/or his family. This will also show the part played by the Maltese sailors at sea in wartime.

I am tentatively optimistic that there could be a positive response. I intend to come to Malta in October, hopefully to follow up my enquiries. In the meantime, rather than send further details, I suggest that readers look at the website submerged.co.uk which includes a number of sections dedicated to not only my father but to other survivors. I can be contacted on roncope@btinternet.com.