AUTHORS are taking readers on an alphabetical tour of Knutsford's heritage to discover the stories behind its many streets and buildings.

Jean and John Bradburn's A-Z of Knutsford: Places-People-History includes interesting facts and intriguing tales about the town, digging deeper into events such as May Day and the area's connections with well-known people.

Jean and John have lived in Knutsford for 30 years and Jean spent much of her childhood in the town.

Now retired, they have written a number of Amberley history books including A-Z of Manchester and Central Manchester Through Time.

Jean is now an adult tutor, offering courses in family history.

John has numerous production credits in theatre, TV and film.

They said: "Despite its size, the Cheshire town of Knutsford is full of history, with its Italianate architecture and quirky buildings.

"It is also surrounded by stately homes built by the landed gentry including Tabley House and Tatton Park.

"According to legend, its name was derived by King Canute fording the river here.

"However, this has been disputed by historians as the River Lily is really no more than a brook.

"Knutsford has an established place in literary history as it provided the inspiration and setting for Elizabeth Gaskell’s novel ‘Cranford’ in which she describes its characters with gentle humour and affection.

"She lived in the town for many years and is buried in the churchyard of Brook Street Unitarian Chapel."

A-Z of Knutsford: Places-People-History is fully illustrated throughout and is available from September 15.