REAL life has been imitating fiction in the village of Aldbrough St John, which has followed the lead of The Archers' Ambridge to launch its own website.

Until now, the community has shared on online home with neighbouring Manfield - but www.Aldbrough-St-John. co.uk focuses exclusively on events and news from the village between Richmond and Darlington.

History information includes the full version of Robbie Gill's Aldbrough, Stanwick and Carlton - The Story of Our Village as well as articles written by local historians, J Allen Clifford and Ian Wardle.

An extensive picture and map library is also planned, with images from Norman and Saxon times, through to the earliest photographs as well as those from the present day.

New information is always welcome and webmasters Grant Rowley and Ian Wardle want to hear from residents willing to loan items which could be included.

"We want villagers to think of it as their site,'' said Mr Rowley.

"We have a lot of fascinating history and we're constantly amazed by the quality of information which continues to turn up.

"In only one day, we were given fresh information on old buildings in the village, offered the use of old aerial photographs and loaned maps from the sale of the Duke of Northumberland's estate, which included most of the village, 80 years ago.

"We hope to continue providing something for everyone and for that reason we have pages for the Neighbourhood Watch, the annual village feast, the surgery, parish council and other village amenities.''