HISTORIANS are searching for the family of a young Merseyside scientist who died while exploring the Antarctic Peninsula more than 30 years ago.

Michael Walker, who lived in Maghull, went missing on Mount Peary, Argentine Islands, in September, 1976.

The 21-year-old, along with his two travelling companions, Graham Whitfield and Geoff Hargreaves, were never found.

Mr Walker was working as a cook with the British Antarctic Survey at the time he went missing.

Now he is one of 27 scientists who will be honoured by a memorial tablet in the crypt of St Paul’s Cathedral, London.

The British Antarctic Monument Trust, which is behind the tribute, also wants to create a two-piece monumental sculpture in the UK and Antarctica to raise awareness of the scale of scientific research.

The Trust are hoping to contact the family to let them know about the tribute.

It is being created to celebrate the achievements of the men and women whose scientific exploration in the British Antarctic Territory has led to a new understanding of our planet, and to honour those among them who did not return.