BARNTON Parish Council is appealing for help in finding a missing accounts book dating back to the 18th century.

On behalf of the parish council, Reverend Geoff Buchan is trying to trace the whereabouts of an 18th century book of administrative accounts which, for the last 300 years, has been kept within the parish of Barnton.

Reverend Buchan said: “Until comparatively recently, the book was in the custody of the late Mrs Beryl Pearson, who had resided in the village.

“Since the death of Mrs Pearson some weeks ago, it has not been possible to trace the manuscript.

“The family are unable to throw any light on the matter but suggest that the book may have been given away by Mrs Pearson to a friend or acquaintance.

“The document is the property of the parish council, as representatives of the people of Barnton.”

The book, which has a vellum binding, measures 14 inches by nine inches by two inches.

The front cover reads ‘Town Book. 1733' and it was kept in a purposely designed wooden box.

Anyone with information which could lead to the discovery of the book should contact Reverend Buchan by calling 07903 848 406 or emailing at gbuchan@tiscali.co.uk.

Information will be treated in the strictest confidence.