A SEARCH has been launched to trace the family of a fallen hero who died following “the forgotten Dunkirk” more than 80 years ago.
The 51st Highland Division soldier evaded capture during the battle of St Valery-en-Caux in Normandy and was hidden by a French family, but was later discovered by the Germans and shot.
The Second World War battle on June 12, 1940 led to around 10,000 mainly Scottish soldiers from the 51st Highland Division being captured.
Following the commemorations to mark the 80th anniversary of the battle last June, St Valery resident Patrick Prieur contacted veterans charity Poppyscotland for help to trace the relatives of a soldier who was sheltered by a local family.
He is taking on his late father’s quest to find the family of the man, whose name was Keller Len Scott.
Prieur, 65 said: “A soldier from the 51st Highland Division was hidden by a local family in the village.
“For several weeks, the soldier remained hidden, but regretfully he was eventually discovered by German troops and shot.
“My father had been gifted a piece of paper on which the soldier’s name was written, ‘Keller Len Scott’, and this became his prized possession.
“In 2014 my father passed away and, being eager to finish what he started, I recently contacted Poppyscotland and the Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association to ask for help.”
Michelle McKearnon, head of engagement at the Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association, said they were only able to get so far with their research into the soldier’s identity, and appealed for help.
She said: “We believe the name order on the piece of paper may have been written in military fashion so the family name might be Keller.
“We’re now at an impasse, struggling to find additional information through our own resources, so we need the knowledge of the wider community.”
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