How Can I Find Out Where Someone Was Born?

[boxtops]

Close family member, preparing a surprise for big birthday, but need to know their birth location. I know where I think it was, but how can I be sure (short of asking them, but it's a bit of a giveaway then!). London area, 1934....

[EcclesCake]

Do they have a passport, can anyone get a sneaky look at it for you?

[EcclesCake]

Oops, sorry just seen the London area bit. Their passport may not help in that case.

[zebo]

BMD site may narrow it down a bit further than London.

[Ken4155]

Just bring the subject up in general conversation.

[237SJ]

You could try here - they might be able to point you in the right direction

http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/contact/

[Ken4155]

Tell them that you have read an article about true cockneys being born within the sound of the bells of wherever. Then ask them if they are a true cockney. I don't suppose you would just get a "yes" or "no" answer

[murraymints]

Birth certificate....obtain a copy or extract from public records

[murraymints]

http://local.direct.gov.uk/LDGRedirect/index.jsp?LGSL=323&LGIL=0

[boxtops]

I know they're not "officially" Cockney, born in North London I think, and they live on the other side of the country, so no chance of sneaking a look at official documents. I may just have to ask... I'll look at those links, thank you.

[Barmaid]

Boxy - you can get a copy of their birth certificate from the ONS. I think a normal delivery takes about 21 days and costs £9.00. If you want me to look up the reference you know how to contact me. I could give you the district where the birth was registered and it wont cost anything.

[boxtops]

Thanks BM, that's a great offer. At the moment I have contacted Haringey council on-line (which is where I think they were born) and they are getting back to me - their charge is £7 plus postage, and if they can't find the person, I don't have to pay. I may well take you up on your offer, thank you :-)