CIVIC buffs are celebrating the launch of the first in a series of booklets about Stourport's famous people, buildings and landscape.

Readers can discover the tale of George Nicholson, the nationally known printer who settled in Stourport in 1808, thanks to the work of Stourport Civic Society member Audrey Cooper.

She has researched and compiled George Nicholson - Printer at Stourport, who before his death in 1825 produced a number of works including The Cambrian Traveller's Guide and commissioned famous artists and engravers, including Thomas Bewick, to produce designs for his books.

Group secretary Jill Fairbrother-Millis said: "Nicholson took 15 Bridge Street on the corner of Raven Street to set up the press and open up his bookshop.

"The booklet pays homage to one of our famous sons, a prolific printer who had decided views on important issues of the time."

She added: "He was a committed vegetarian, formidable opponent of cruelty to animals and related sports, a supporter of the movement to abolish slavery and a believer in free day schools, all of which found expression in his works."

Other people and places to feature in the series have yet to be announced, but group members are busily researching various topics, added Mrs Fairbrother-Millis, who welcomed further information and photographs of 15 Bridge Street.

A display of anecdotes featured in the book will be held in Stourport Library from Monday, September 10 until the following Monday. A small collection of Nicholson's books may be shown later in the year.

The society also plans to contribute to the restoration of Nicholson's tombstone in St Michael's Church in a future project.

The booklet is available from Stourport Library and the Oxfam and Lock Shop stores in the town. Anyone who has photographs of or information about the old 15 Bridge Street can contact Mrs Cooper on 01299 824366.