THE mystery of a British Army identification tag, found miles from home, ended yesterday when it was returned to a former prisoner-of-war from the North-East.

The reunion came after a transatlantic search that started in the US and was solved by The Northern Echo.

Last night, the tiny tin plaque was returned to its rightful owner - more than 60 years after bombardier Joseph McCamley, from Redcar, in east Cleveland, was rescued from a Japanese prison camp.

The 87-year-old told The Northern Echo: "I can't believe this has been returned to me all the way from America. It will take pride of place in my memorabilia box."

The search began when Gordon Scaggs discovered his father's box of Second World War memories, including the Royal Artillery plaque, at the family home in Montana, US.

After hearing terrible tales from his father, Howard, about emaciated prisoners, Mr Scaggs never believed Mr McCamley survived the journey home.

But a determination to find the rightful owner paid off and led to former steelworker Mr McCamley.

Mr Scaggs said: "I was flabbergasted when we got a response. But to hear Mr McCamley was still alive and well was amazing."

Howard Scaggs was a Navy medic on board the USS Benevolence when it sailed into Tokyo Bay to rescue the PoWs.

He died in 1996 and, following the death of his wife, Grace, in September, their son came across the dog tag.

Historians in the US and Britain provided more information and an appeal in The Northern Echo in October asked for more information.

A quick response from Mr McCamley's son, Mike, helped put both men in touch.

Mr McCamley, known as Joe, said he could not remember what the plaque was used for during his time in the Army.

But he added: "To have all this effort put in to tracing me is amazing and I'm really touched by everyone who has helped return this piece of history.

"It brings back a lot of memories and also reminds me of all the wonderful things the Americans did for us. They treated us like kings when we were on the ship, heading home.

"I shall be getting in touch with Mr Scaggs myself to thank him personally for all his efforts.

"This is a unique piece of treasure that I will keep with me for the rest of my days."

Mr Scaggs said: "The easiest part of this tale was finding the former prisoner of war, 4,000 miles away, with only his name to start the search.

"I'm just relieved it has reached its rightful owner. My father would be so proud to think all this effort has paid off, thanks to The Northern Echo."