THESE beautiful pieces belong to a silver tea service which was once owned by Sir John Groves.

Sir John was an important Weymouth businessman who owned the brewery in Hope Square.

This tea service was bought by Oliver Taylor at an auction in Eastbourne.

Oliver contacted Looking Back because he is keen to trace descendants of Sir John who might be interested in owning the tea service.

He was the chairman of the family business, Messrs John Groves and son, and he and his family lived in Rodwell Villa, a large house that was set in extensive grounds, which later became known as Rodwell Lodge.

John served as town mayor three times between 1886 and 1889.

He was also one of the guardians for the parish, and was known for his generosity towards those less fortunate inhabitants of his parish.

At Christmas he would personally send out a bushel of coal to all the poor families under his care.

Sir John's memory is kept alive today with a painting of him which can be viewed in Weymouth Museum.

Anyon who can help Oliver trace the family's descendants should email him at oliverbtaylor@hotmail.com