THE history of Rawdon from ancient artefacts to the new millennium has been traced in a new book published by Aireborough and Horsforth Museum Society.

The book, written by David Willcock, of Apperley Lane, Rawdon, is the first history of the village written for more than 80 years. And so successful is the publication, that it has already sold out.

In the book, entitled A History of Rawdon: Persons, Places and Prejudices, Mr Willcock says he has drawn from earlier historians' work, as well as studying records and other sources - however, he said he would also welcome hearing more historical evidence from any residents who can shed light on the area's past.

Mr Willcock begins his book by exploring the mysterious ancient history of Rawdon. He says evidence of ancient civilisation - including two bronze axe heads and a gold torque - were found in the area.

Rawdon's history is first written in William the Conqueror's Domesday book of 1086, in which part of the land was held by nobles who arrived in England with the Norman Invasion.

From these landowning families, Mr Willcock traces their lineage, and the lands they presided over, through the course of the Millennium.

He explains how many of the medieval nobles and their descendants have left their mark on the landscape of modern Rawdon - often in name only.

The book also traces the origins of well-known village pubs, clubs, churches and properties, many of which are still in the village today.

Mr Willcock takes a detailed look at the some of the geography of the area in the past, explaining place names, and takes a look at some of the more

ambitious plans for Rawdon which never came to be.

Rawdon Council in 1930 were asked for their views on building a zoo, to which they did not object in principle, but needed to see more detailed plans.

The book, which is only available through the Aireborough and Horsforth Museum Society, has proved so

popular that the Museum Society have ordered a reprint. Mr Willcock is currently taking orders for those hoping to get a copy of the new reprint .For a copy, write to the Museum Society at Chase Cottage, The Chase, Apperley Lane, Rawdon.