TWO hundred years after the battle of Trafalgar, the Watford Observer is working with the national archive to find out more about two local residents involved on October 21, 1805.

We are looking for more information about the lives of Robert Smith, born in Watford in 1785 and William Walker, born in Rickmansworth in 1775, who were both sailors in Nelson's fleet.

Midshipman Smith, 20, served on HMS Victory, Nelson's flagship and died, along with his admiral during the battle.

He volunteered for service in 1803 and following his death, his father, Thomas, collected his wages.

The Victory was badly damaged during the battle but was towed back to port bearing Nelson's body.

Landsman Walker, 30, served on HMS Colossus during the battle.

At the moment nothing more is known about him.

It is possible that both these men still have relatives living in the area, who may be able to shed some more light on their histories.

Please e-mail the Watford Observer at editor@watfordobserver.co.uk if you have information about either Mr Smith, Mr Walker or any other local Trafalgar veterans.

The information contained in this article was made public as part of a project by the national archive in commemoration of the battle.

To search for your own ancestors, visit the National Archives online at www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/trafalgarancestors/results.asp.