IF you've ever just sat there and wondered what's happened in Congleton over the last few hundred years; here's the answer.

Check out a new book on sale now, aptly entitled Congleton: History and Guide, pictured left.

Illustrated with over 100 photographs and a variety of other archive material, this engaging study presents a chronological history of how the market town has transformed from Neolithic times up to the 21st Century.

Along with recording local developments that have taken place, it also examines how events like the Plague, the Civil War and Two World Wars affected the town and contributed to its story and development.

Another feature of the book is a pair of walking tours, which can be taken independently of the main text and allow the reader to explore Congleton's history through it's existing streets, buildings and canal.

The book has been written and compiled by Joan P Alcock, an archaeologist and historian who has researched, written and lectured on Congleton's history for many years.

Joan is also President of Congleton History Society.

Read how townspeople sold their Bible in the 17th Century to buy a new bear in Congleton: History and Guide, available from most major outlets in the area, priced at £14.99.