AN American is in Huddersfield, researching the life of one of the pioneers of the Christadelphian sect, Robert Roberts.

Roberts lived and worked in the town between 1859 and 1863.

And he is thought to have worked as a journalist during his stay and been good friends with Joseph Woodhead, the founder of the Examiner.

Photographer Karen Pillion, from Texas, is in Huddersfield as part of a four-week tour of England. It is the first time she has left the States.

Mrs Pillion is staying with fellow Christadelphian Mrs Margaret Sutcliffe, of Edgerton.

While in Huddersfield, Roberts stayed in rooms in Albion Street belonging to a local baker, Josiah Rhodes.

Rhodes was well known for his atheistic views, but Roberts converted him to Christianity. Rhodes then became one of Huddersfield's first Christadelphians.

Mrs Pillion is keen to hear from any relatives of the Rhodes family.

She has collected a lot of information about Roberts, but would love to hear from anyone with more.

He travelled to Birmingham after his time in Huddersfield and died in California in 1898.

Mrs Pillion's address is 324 PR 3798, Big Sandy, Texas, 75755, USA or email her at BobNKaren76@juno.com