HE WAS an Italian solider in the Second World War who was captured and shipped to Romsey.

Now his family are searching for his long-lost son, who they believe could still be in the area.

Paolo Fruncillo was just 20-years-old when he was captured in Tunisia in 1943 and sent to the market town's famous Camp 41.

When he returned to Forino, near Naples, his family were never aware of the details of his time in England as he never spoke about his time as a prisoner of war (POW). He died in 2013.

However, following his death, information arose about a love-affair Paolo had while in England and two uncaptioned pictures of a woman and a young boy were found. On his own deathbed early last year, Paolo's brother confirmed to his son and Paolo's nephew, Gennaro Maffei, that the two photographs were of the former solider's lover and their son.

A friend of the family, Lesley Dootson of Cheshire, is now on the hunt for those in the pictures. She says the young woman's name is Mary, but the name of the child is unknown.

"Although a long time ago, we are hoping to reunite the two families," said Lesley.

"From what we understand from sources in Italy, Paolo's girlfriend was called Mary and they had a son.

"Having looked at photos of WW2 uniforms, it would appear that Mary's uniform is that of the ATS - Auxillary Territorial Service."

She added: "We know it is a long-shot after so many years, but the Fruncillo family would love to hear from anyone who may have any relevant information."

Do you know Mary, her family, recognise those in the pictures or have any information that could help the search? Get in touch by emailing newsdesk@dailyecho.co.uk