About us
Your Family Historian is a professional genealogy and family history research service founded by husband-and-wife team Andy Robson and Deb Ismay. With over 40 years of combined experience, they specialise in uncovering, researching, and preserving family stories for clients across the UK and around the world.
What began as a personal passion for ancestry and genealogy has grown into a trusted professional practice. Andy and Deb work closely together on every project, combining detailed historical research with engaging storytelling and a highly personal approach.
Their work has helped clients trace their family trees, uncover long-lost connections, solve complex genealogical problems, and create lasting records to be treasured for generations.
Andy Robson BEng (Hons)
Andy is a professional genealogist with over 30 years of experience in family history research and ancestry investigation.
He is an Associate of AGRA (Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives), the professional body for genealogists in England and Wales. Known for his meticulous, evidence-based approach, Andy specialises in solving complex genealogical problems and breaking through long-standing “brick walls” in family tree research.
Alongside his genealogy expertise, Andy is a published author, local historian, and specialist in military history—bringing valuable historical context to the family histories he researches. He is also a member of the Newcastle & Durham Family History Society and the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne.
“I honestly love this work. Helping clients uncover their roots—and the stories behind them—brings a sense of satisfaction like no other.”
BA (Hons), MBA Deb Ismay
Deb is a professional family history researcher who works alongside Andy on projects, combining strong research skills with a thoughtful, client-focused approach.
She holds the Family History Skills and Strategies Intermediate Certificate (with Distinction) and is currently completing her Advanced qualification. She is also a member of the Society of Genealogists and runs the global Ismay One Name Study (Guild of One-Name Studies).
With a background in leadership, training, and senior IT roles, Deb brings structure, organisation, and a deep understanding of client needs to every genealogy project—ensuring that each family history is not only accurate, but meaningful and personal.
“The most rewarding part of this work is seeing how much these histories mean to people—especially when long-standing questions are finally answered.”
Rebecca Collacott BA (Hons)
Rebecca Collacott graduated from Coventry University with a First Class degree in Media Production. She designed and developed the branding and website for Your Family Historian and continues to provide creative support.
How We Work
Our approach to family history research is thorough, professional, and evidence-based, ensuring every project is completed to the highest standard.
From your first enquiry, we take time to understand your goals—whether you are looking to trace your ancestry, explore your family tree, solve a specific genealogical problem, or investigate DNA connections.
We use a wide range of historical records and genealogy sources, carefully cross-checking evidence and following leads wherever they take us. Where necessary, we go beyond online databases, consulting original documents and archive collections to ensure accuracy and depth in our research.
We specialise in complex ancestry research, including resolving “brick walls”, unclear records, and difficult family lines. Our work combines persistence, analytical thinking, and years of professional genealogy experience.
Just as importantly, we believe family history should be clear, engaging, and accessible. Whether we are presenting detailed research findings, offering expert guidance, or producing a fully written family history, we ensure everything is easy to understand and meaningful to you.
Every project is reviewed collaboratively, combining our expertise to ensure accuracy, clarity, and quality at every stage.
Whatever your research goals, our aim is always the same: to help you discover your ancestry and bring your family history to life.
