Genealogy Chat

Thanks to everyone for their replies. I've printed the PA1S form out and I'll post it off tomorrow. Cheers Lyndsey

The executor is the person who actually carries out the wishes expressed in the will, or sees that they are carried out. There can be more than one executor, but 'sole executor' means she was the only one. On older wills a female executor would be called an executrix. By the way, you don't need to put place of death on your order for the will, rather the place where the deceased lived. You can download the order form to print it from the courts service website at www.theprobateservice.gov.uk, and the form is called a PA1S, not sure if somebody has already mentioned that. Kate.

Thanks for that Ann. Yes there was definately a will. Probate was granted to his wife as Sole Exectutor, if that makes any sense. I don't actually know what it means, this sort of thing is all new to me - so if any body can explain it?

You can find details of whether a will was made using probate calendar - I use the one at my local library run family history centre, or presumably available at your local records office or similar(?). (Check for the year of the person's death, not when you believe will was made.) Once you have the details you can order it from the Postal Searches & Copies office in York. Or you can check the calendar in the regional probate offices I believe. I'm sure someone can either confirm or deny that! Go to website: www*hmcourts-service.gov.uk & it will explain all about it & you can download an order form. Cost is £5 Good luck.

Sorry, should have mentioned that this is for a death in 1915, for someone living in Grantchester, Cambridge. The actual will was made in March 1898 if that's any help. Lyndsey

Depends on which year you are thinking of. National Archives documents online have wills you can dowload for £3.50 each that cover period up to 1858 I think.

Can someone please tell me what information do I need to obtain a copy of a will and where do I apply for it? Many thanks