An Auchinleck man is reaching out to locals to see if they have any memories of his family – decades after they moved to England to start a new life.

Richard Telfer was born at 25 Main Street in The Mines Rescue Station in Auchinleck in July 1946.

His grandfather was stationed at the Rescue Station, a building which still stands today.

The 74-year-old has been back to visit Auchinleck and the surrounding area many times and says he remains “staunchly Scottish” despite living most of his life in Northamptonshire.

Richard is now looking to reconnect with residents to see if he can unearth any more information about the family.

Cumnock Chronicle: Richard’s dad, Jonathan Telfer, in his Talbot shirt in the 1930s.Richard’s dad, Jonathan Telfer, in his Talbot shirt in the 1930s.

He said: “I have been back many times to reminisce but I would like to hear from anyone who has knowledge of my family. I have been in isolation since March and any contact with the outside world would be welcome.

“The last time I was up the road was last September to see Still Game in Glasgow, and my eldest son often goes up to play golf in West Kilbride.”

Richard’s father, Jonathan, played for Auchinleck Talbot before the war and he revealed: “I remember him saying he played against Bill Shankly and Sir Matt Busby all those years ago.

“He was a POW who managed to escape and walked 400 miles to freedom from Metz to Switzerland during WW2. Alas he was never forthcoming about it. Typically Scottish.”

His grandfather was also the president of Auchinleck Bowling Club.

Contact Richard at at richardtelfer173@yahoo.co.uk