An up close look at a rugby world cup winner is on offer in a new book by a Chorley author.

Dave Swanton has written 'The Real Jason Robinson', a profile of the flying Sale and England winger who scored the only try in the national team's World Cup final victory in 2003.

Dave, 48, of Whittle Park, Clayton-le-Woods, has formed a close working relationship with the former Wigan player, nicknamed 'Billy Whizz' as a result of his lightning pace.

He has worked with Robinson for several years, firstly in his role of PR man at Wigan and later at Sale Sharks, where he is currently media and PR manager.

Robinson, who became England's first black rugby union captain and has made 35 international appearances, has local links as he currently lives in Leyland.

In the book, Dave delves behind the well chronicled public persona of Robinson and explores the man behind the achievements, revealing his true personality and sense of fun.

Dave completed the book in a three month period earlier this year and has secured a national distribution deal for the biography, which is published on October 18.

He said: "As well as highlighting his extensive sporting success I'm aiming to put across the side of Jason that the public don't see such as his love of practical jokes and fast food."

Dave, who often travels with Jason to matches also tells of the overwhelming fan attention he received after the World Cup victory.

"Sale were playing Wasps in London and there were literally hundreds of fans and press waiting for him outside the dressing room.

"We wanted to get away quickly so Jason got into the wheeliebin we use to transport the kit and I pushed him straight past the waiting crowd and onto the coach.

"To this day there are people wondering how he managed to get out of there without them seeing."