A GROUP of older men including a former Astronomer Royal have written a book about being a widower and living alone.

The friends, who include 84-year-old Sir Arnold Wolfendale who was Astronomer Royal from 1991 to 1995, first decided to write the book Without Her last year, in support of charity Age UK County Durham.

Editor John Clarke, an emeritus professor of Durham University, said "The group wanted to express our individual feelings about losing our wives and subsequently living alone.

"We felt that others who have suffered in a similar way might find our thoughts useful."

The book offers 11 personal stories of dealing with bereavement, dementia and other issues.

Harriet Gibbon, chief executive of Age UK County Durham, said: "It is very kind of the group to make such an innovative donation. Each book sold will help us continue our work with older people in County Durham."

Without Her was launched at Clayport Library, in Durham, on Monday, October 10.

The book is available at the discount price of £2.99 from Age UK County Durham, 7 Atherton Street, Durham City.

It is also available at Healthworks, Paradise Lane, Easington; online at ageukcountydurham.org.uk/withouther; or by calling 0191-3746363. The usual price is £5.50.