This week we will be sharing many tales of bravery and courage in a special supplement marking the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

But how do you go about tracing back to find out your relative's role in the Great War?

We have spoken to a few people with plenty of experience in this area to get their top tips on tracing relatives who fought in the First World War.

First steps:

It may sound obvious but the first thing you need is your relative's name and if they had more than one make sure you include all of them in your search.

A regiment or regiment number will also really help your search.

Ask any older relatives if they can help you.

Where to start your search:

Your local library is the perfect place to start.

They will have archives of newspapers from the era and many libraries also have free access to Ancestry.

Where to search online:

Medals Index Cards is a good place to start as medal cards were held for every active serviceman sent abroad.

The London Gazette, which lists medal awards for outstanding soldiery, is also online.

Search the National Archives

Search the London Gazette

How to use the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website:

This is a great resource and if you think your relative might have been killed in action it's the best place to start your search.

Search the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website here

This site can tell you their date of death, age and where they are buried among other details.

Next steps:

Not all First World War records are complete but hopefully the websites above can give you enough information to cross reference.

If you're struggling to find a record of your relative's active service but know which regiment they served with, you could also try looking for their regimental war diary.

This gives a general overview of the regiment's experiences during the war.

You can try to search for them online here or you may have to visit the regimental museum or The National Archives where many of these diaries are now stored.

Other good sites to search:

Local and county archives

Regimental museums

Parish records 

The Great War website also has a useful guide and list of sites to search. Click here for more

When you think you've come to the end of the road...

Don't give up! Searching for relatives can be real detective work but it's very rewarding when it comes off.

And once you start piecing together your research you could have an amazing story to tell.