A FAMILY historian is asking the public to help him find a long-lost picture of his great-great grandfather.

Northumberland man John Batey believes his ancestor William Stewart, who used to take part in boat races on the River Derwent, had his picture hung in Ebchester boathouse.

Mr Batey said he worked transporting cargo on the River Tyne, but was killed when the boiler of his steam ferry, Eleanor, exploded.

He has asked anyone who knows about the picture to call him at his Bedlington home, on (01670) 824010.