many thanks.
the webpage link you directed me to would suggest that the reg no is 1884.
i've been looking at the public records office/national archive web site but the info is not available online and would have to visit them. the page i visited is:
http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/cata ... fletID=135" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
i found the design registry/uk patent office site was useful as you can look up a registration number. unfortunately i think my number was too early for their records! their web address is:
http://www.patent.gov.uk/design.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
for anyone interested in looking up reg nos.
.