A FORMER York woman has launched a hunt to track down a trophy tribute to the father she never knew.

Mary Pitchforth's father, Harry Norton, was killed in a tank during the Second World War, before she had a chance to meet him.

Years later, the only lasting memories of Lance Corporal Norton are in a tattered scrap book, charting his pre-war service in the Queen's Bays.

Now Mrs Pitchforth is hoping to find a bronze statuette which was presented to her father in recognition of his horsemanship.

The trophy, which depicts L/ Cpl Norton astride a horse and carrying a lance, was presented in the 1930s at a Royal Tournament, and had remained in the family until the 1970s.

Then, unaware of its sentimental value, Mary's stepfather gave the small statuette away when preparing to move away from York.

Since the trophy is of little value other than a sentimental reminder, Mrs Pitchforth, who now lives in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, hopes whoever has it now would be prepared to return it.

Anyone who knows where the statuette might be should call Mr and Mrs Pitchforth on 01427 614561.

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