This page explains how to search for information in The Family Records Centre and details of the records that it keeps.
The Family Records Centre, or FRC as it is sometimes known, keeps records of birth, deaths and marriages from 1st July 1837 only.
The records are not available to be viewed, but individual entries are traced by searching the indexes and then copies of the original entries are supplied in the form of certificates.
Indexes up to 1983 are compiled alphabetically in yearly quarters by date of registration, e.g. the birth index for the March quarter 1855 lists births registered in January, February and March 1855. Marriages are registered in the quarter in which the marriage took place.
Details of the indexes are as follows;
- Births. The birth indexes for September quarter 1911 onwards contain the maiden surname of the mother.
- Marriages. The marriage indexes for March quarter 1912 onwards show the surname of the second party to the marriage alongside the name and surname of the other party.
- Deaths. The death indexes for March quarter 1866 to March quarter 1969 show the age at death. From June quarter 1969 onwards the deceased's date of birth is shown.
When you have found the relevant index reference, make a note of it and complete the application form and take it to the payment desks. Each certificate costs £6.50p and can be sent to you within four working days or can be collected after three working days.
Postal applications can be made to The General Register Office, PO Box 2, Southport, Merseyside.PR8 2JD. Telephone 0151 471 4800 for details on fees.
Please supply the following information;
- Full name and surname.
- Precise date of birth or month and year of birth.
- Place of birth. · Name and surname of Father.
- Name, surname and maiden name of Mother.
Fees.
- From the UK. Cheques and postal orders should be made payable to ONS and crossed & Co.(do not send cash)
- From abroad. International Money Order or cheque made payable to ONS and paid in Stirling only.
Nigel Matthews. Surrey. . 
England. May 2000
Last update 16-May-2000
nigelmatthews@matthewsfamilytree.co.uk
Copyright © Nigel Matthews UK 1997-2000
