A KNUTSFORD historian and genealogist is celebrating double success with the launch of her latest book and a new exhibition at Manchester Central Library.

Michala Hulme, 33, who used to live in Tabley before a recent move to Arley, is following up the achievement of her first book ‘A Grim Almanac of Manchester’ with the release of a more in-depth look into Manchester’s history.

‘Bloody British History: Manchester’, released at the beginning of October, details stories of ‘bloodshed, violent battles, brutal murders and savage diseases’ based in Manchester.

The book is a follow on from the PHD student’s debut book, exploring some of the stories in ‘A Grim Almanac’ in greater detail.

Michala’s exhibition, will is now open in Manchester Central Library and will run until December 31, covers a different aspect of the city’s history- focussing on Manchester’s first municipal cemetery.

“It just so happened that the two were both released in the same week,” said Michala, who is currently studying a PHD at Manchester Metropolitan University. “Because the other book was so successful, and I was very restricted how much space I could give some of the stories, I have given it far more detail this time.

“There are also stories that people have never heard of. There are less stories this time, but far more detail.

“I love both of my books, I love writing and I like the more grim side of history.”

The exhibition, which focuses on the history of Philip’s Park Cemetery, which has been open for 150 years.

“It was built by the people of Manchester for the people of Manchester,” she added. “I have got four generations on my mum’s side from Manchester. I first heard about the cemetery when I was doing my own family tree.

“I did my undergrad dissertation on the cemetery and how it came about. Then a lecturer at MMU heard of my PHD, which is looking at how the Victorians dealt with the dead.”

Michala is hoping to be working on a televised documentary in the near future, although plans remain under wraps.

She is also set to appear on the next season of BBC’s Heir Hunters.