A former aircraft engineer claims to have cracked the identity of a mystery object.

The unusual piece of equipment has had readers baffled since it was featured in last Friday's Oxford Mail.

The bizarre item was discovered at a car boot sale by Andrew Belcher, from Laurel Crescent, Grove, near Wantage.

The 41-year-old electrician, was so puzzled by the object's identity that he challenged readers to guess its identity.

But one Oxford pensioner reckons he has solved the mystery. Tool collector Ivor Harold, 77, of Kineton Road, south Oxford, recognised the implement as a ratchet brace - used for drilling holes in confined spaces.

Mr Harold, who was an engineer with the RAF for five years, said the tools were common in the 1940s and were still used for boat building.

He said: "I am fascinated by tools and still have a better set than most professionals."

He added: "I have seen the same sort of tools used in the construction industry and I would imagine they are still used today."

Story date: Tuesday 07 December

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