My family - surnamed 'Wyles' - has lived in Duddington village for over 500 years and probably longer. Although we no longer live there - in 2009 I discovered this connection and have been engaged in a 12-year study of the Church in Duddington - St Mary's - and its graveyard as it contains many of my ancestors. Although I live in Sutton - South London - around twice a year we drive to Duddington and spend the day gathering historical and genealogical data.
St Mary's Church and Graveyard
St Mary's Church and I have been told, however, that the parish records for pre-1700s Duddington were destroyed by a flood and this lack of records has hindered my research. I have been further informed that there may be duplicate records made for the Bishop that cover births, deaths, marriages and baptisms for the 15th and 16th centuries (and perhaps earlier). If St Mary's still retains its parish chest - I would be very interested to learn if any of its contents refer to my Wyles ancestors. Of course, I have no way of knowing if this information is correct and would be very grateful if your could look into this matter on my behalf.
Thank you for your time in this matter.
Yours sincerely
Adrian Wyles