I believe the National Archives service records only start from 1873 as far as on line records are concerned from the web site it says the Certificates of service are in ADM records from 1802 are held there and available in the original form, the have a microfilm alphabetical index which give the certificate numbers so you will need someone to go there for you if you can't go yourself. Paying a researcher is a good idea but often not an option for some and then you have to make sure they are reputable there have been a few who have made up stories in the past but mostly about much older ancestors. I have been told the best thing is to seek the recommendation of the local Family History Society unless you know someone who has used one. I was lucky I found distant cousins through Genesreunited and the Roots county list who had done a lot of hands on work and were kind enough to share details and documents with me but I still went back,- I have direct family members there did some research but it is time consuming,. met some of my helpful cousins and visited the villages where my ancestors came from, which was an experience standing in a 1500's inn knowing my 9th great g/g probably used it, I wouldn't have missed it for anything Irene ----- Original Message ----- From: "liverpud" <[email protected]> To: "Hampshire-L" <[email protected]> Sent: Friday, February 29, 2008 1:05 AM Subject: [HAM] [PORTSMOUTH-GOSPORT] Greenwich Pensioners & MIDLANE > Hi, > > Researchers: I had three of my naval grandparents searched & paid a > researcher. By the time one fiddles, it's best to have someone look at > Kew. I know it's pricey but cheaper than airfare, B&B etc. > > Good Luck, > > Edna - sunny Ottawa >