hi there Steve, this is a little strange, i guess like you i thought the surname was an unusual one :) my brothers name is Stephen, my father was a William p date and was born in 1924,coincidences huh lol, i cant remember any johns being mentioned, a uncle Dennis was spoke of and a Percival i think, i think my side came from Edinburgh way but im not sure exactly as i was born in London, i live in south wales now and there seem to be dates here but i think they must be of a Cornish or Devonian connection ???? if you'd like to chat my email is patchie570@yahoo.co.uk good luck with your search :) Stuart g Date