I have started to write my own book (fictional story) set in and around 1860 in Victorian England. In particular I am interested in research material that would help me with authenticity with regard to the Royal Navy/Channel fleet etc. I have bought lots of old books from second hand book stores on the subject and have researched old copies of the London Gazette. However is there, in your opinion, an expert on that period that I could possibly contact?  They might be an academic or whatever but any pointers in that direction would be very much appreciated. As for your comments above being unfriendly or whatever; I don’t blame you one bit for trying to protect yourself from potential legal action and I am afraid it is the world we live in.
Kind Regards
Roger Baker