A NEW book is spotlighting the history of an ancient boundary.

Friends Robin Longbottom and Chris Riley spent many months walking the route and carrying out meticulous research.

The result is Riding the Boundary of the Old Township of Sutton-in-Craven, a booklet packed with information and over 50 photos and maps.

"We identified and recorded all the surviving boundary stones – about 30 of them – and marks," said Mr Longbottom, 63, who now lives at Oakworth but is originally from Sutton.

"Some of the stones are in their natural place while others have been specifically erected and they have various marks cut into them.

"Both myself and Chris, who still lives in Sutton, have a long-standing interest in the history of the village.

"It was a fascinating and very successful project and a lot of fun."

The duo covered the eight-mile route of the boundary several times as part of the research, which threw up several challenges.

"There are some boundary marks which were a mystery," said Mr Longbottom, who worked in Keighley planning department before his retirement.

"On some of the stones on the boundary with Keighley are the letters WD, which really puzzled us. After considerable research we discovered the initials stood for William Earl of Devonshire, who was lord of the manor of Keighley."

The book retails at £8, and all profits will go to Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands.

Copies can be obtained from the authors, from the Kings Arms in Sutton and Keighley Civic Centre.