THE first comprehensive history of a North Yorkshire market town's silver has been published.

The Treasures of Richmond was written by former town clerk Alan Wilcox, who this week presented the first copy to the town council.

The project has involved many months of research.

The book includes photographs and descriptions of the extensive collection of silver owned by the town. Treasures such as the mayoral chains and church plate are also included.

Mr Wilcox said: "When I was town clerk, people from all over the place used to phone me to ask about the history of the town silver.

"It occurred to me that that anyone wanting to find out about it would have to go to many different sources.

"When I retired, I said I would put it all together in one place and publish a book. It has taken a few years, but it is now done."