AN interest in aviation and local history that spans almost a lifetime is behind a new book published this week to help mark a special East Lancashire anniverary.

Former primary school headteacher David Brooks has spent the last 10 years researching his book - but has put around half a century of local knowledge and a genuine fascination into his first publication.

The publication of "Vikings at Waterloo" coincides with the 60th anniversary of the day that the late Sir Frank Whittle's first experimental engine was fired.

The book captures two years during the Second World War when Waterloo Mill in Clitheroe was the focal point for the Rover company's development and improvement of the jet engine.

The Viking was the symbol used by Rover on their cars and inspired Mr Brooks' title for his book.

He said: "I have been interested in local history and aviation for a long time and research for this book has been taking place on and off for the last 10 years. "I have interviewed around 60 people who were involved in various stages of the work undertaken on the jet engine in East Lancashire and I am delighted the results of my work have finally been put into print.

"The book looks at the two years during the war when Waterloo Mill was used as a development site, but then I also go on to give a potted history of the mill right up to its demolition."

"Vikings at Waterloo" has been published by the Rolls Royce Heritage Trust and details of how to get hold of a copy, priced £9, can be obtained through Mr Brooks, of Beechwood Avenue, Clitheroe, on 01200 424957.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.