WINSFORD children's author John Malam has proved to be a big hit in libraries across the country.

Public Lending Right statistics released last week show that John's books have been borrowed 68,000 times in the space of 12 months from libraries nationwide.

This puts John, who lives in Wharton, in the top six per cent of the most popular authors with library borrowers.

John, who writes information books, said: "I am absolutely delighted.

"It shows the children are reading the books and hopefully if they have enjoyed one book written by myself then they will go on to pick up another one.

"I am thrilled about it and I know my publishers are as well."

And John's latest book is sure to add to his success.

You Wouldn't Want to be a Victorian Miner! is in the same series as John's other books about people you wouldn't want to be.

He has already written about being a Victorian schoolchild and a Roman Gladiator.

Despite its humorous style it gives children an insight into the grim reality of being a coal miner in Victorian times.

John said: ""I feel it's important to inform today's children about how life in Britain used to be.

"It's much harder for today's children to reach out and touch the past and that's where books like this come into their own."

Published by Hodder Wayland, You Wouldn't Want to be A Victorian Miner! is out now in hardback priced £10.99.

l The Guardian has a copy of You Wouldn't Want to be a Victorian Miner! to give away to one lucky reader.

Just answer the following simple question: What mined substance are the towns of Winsford and Middlewich most famous for?

Answers on a postcard or sealed envelope please to Book competition, Winsford and Middlewich Guardian, 15 Market Street, Northwich, CW9 5DT.

Please don't forget to include your name, address and a daytime telephone number.

Usual Guardian rules apply and the editor's decision is final.

jpowell@guardiangrp.co.uk