TRIBUTES have been paid to a renowned author and academic who has died after a battle with prostate cancer.

Darwen-born James Watson, 78, was best known for his 1983 story for teenagers, Talking in Whispers, which was for a time a GCSE set text.

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Mr Watson attended Darwen Grammar school and grew up on Lynwood Avenue with his parents Jim and Miriam Watson.

His many books, aimed at younger readers, illustrated the action and the politics of international crises of the 20th century.

He was also known for being a lifelong socialist and active member of Amnesty International.

During his career he explained his inspiration. He said: “It is these human rights abuses which get me motivated.”

At 18, Mr Watson left Darwen to study history at the University of Nottingham.

He later worked as a journalist on the Evening Gazette in Middlesbrough where he met wife Kitty.

Mr Watson began his writing career in 1967 and his later novels included No Surrender (1991), Ticket to Prague (1993) and Justice of the Dagger (1998).

The family later moved to Tunbridge Wells, where he taught liberal studies at West Kent College and went on to become senior lecturer in communication studies.

His daughter Francesca, 45, said: “Dad remained passionate about his Lancashire roots and would always refer to himself as a ‘Darrener’.

Mr Watson remained a lifelong supporter of Blackburn Rovers and would cheer them on at games in London.

He is survived by Francesca and two other daughters, Rosalind and Miranda.