CAN readers put family-tree tracer George Sharp in the picture over the faces in this old family photo?

He only knows the identity of the bearded, burly gent in the middle of the group -- his great-grandfather, farmer James Wilkinson, who was born in 1839.

Old Jim started life at the George and Dragon Inn, Downham -- known as the Assheton Arms since 1956 -- which was kept by his parents.

After marrying Tosside blacksmith's daughter Ellen Wolfenden, he went to farm at Smithies Bridge, Chatburn; Houghton Barn Farm, Altham; Duckworth Hall Farm, Oswaldtwistle; and finally Spring Farm, Guide -- demolished in recent years to make way for the extension of the M65 -- where, almost 10 years after being widowed and just five days short of his 67th birthday, he died suddenly in 1906.

But though this makes the photograph at least almost 100 years old, George wonders wonders whether readers recognise any of their forefathers among the other four in the group and can tell him their names and relationship, if any, to his ancestor.

Mr Sharp can be contacted at 19 Cunliffe Close, Blackburn BB1 5QX and on 01254 664698.