A STOKESLEY man has produced a booklet dedicated to the history of a village church.

Tony Hodgson has unearthed details from many sources to provide a wealth of information about St Andrew's Church at Ingleby Greenhow.

The author has delved into the history of the church and its relationship with castles between Stokesley and Barnard Castle, along with some further afield in Scotland and Norfolk.

The 30-page booklet also describes intriguing connections with Balliol College at Oxford University, as well as two Scottish kings and a regent of Scotland.

It traces the development of the church from Norman times through to the 19th century, also referring to many nearby places such as Skutterskelfe, Great and Little Busby, Tanton, Dromonby, Kirkby, Great Broughton, parts of Battersby and Easby, and, in considerable detail, the Soke of Stokesley.

In the late 11th century, the Soke of Stokesley was a district of eight parishes, including Ingleby Greenhow.

The earliest history of St Andrew's Church is shrouded in mystery. Mr Hodgson does not know when a church building first appeared there, but it may have been built in about 900 and re-built about 1100. Its clergy were hired monks from Whitby Abbey.

The author would be happy to answer any questions and comments about his book. He can be contacted by ringing 01642-711473 or visiting junetony@tiscali.co.uk.