AUTHOR Edward Rutherfurd is to return to his native city of Salisbury next week, for the unveiling of a walkway to be named after him.

He will unveil Rutherfurd Walk - the currently unnamed pathway that runs between Reeve the Baker and the Guildhall.

The honour is being bestowed on the author who wrote Sarum, a novel based on the history of Salisbury, thanks to local resident John Waddington and Salisbury district council city centre ward member Ian Tomes.

Mr Tomes said: "Mr Waddington, who lives in my ward, asked me whether it was a good idea to name that passageway after Edward Rutherfurd.

"As one of two ward councillors for the city centre, I can help decide the naming of a street and I thought Mr Waddington's suggestion was an excellent way of showing our appreciation to a local author who has brought international recognition to Salisbury.

"I am delighted that Mr Rutherfurd is able to unveil the new street sign that will bear his name."

Joining them for the unveiling on Wednesday, April 13, will be mayor and mayoress of Salisbury Jeremy and Sue Nettle, chairman of Salisbury district council Patrick Paisey and local people who helped Mr Rutherfurd with his research for Sarum - including the Salisbury City Guides.

After the new Rutherfurd Walk has been unveiled, members of the public will have the chance to meet the author and he will be signing copies of his books in the Guildhall from 5.45pm.

Edward Rutherfurd was born in Salisbury and educated at Marlborough, before going on to read English at Cambridge.

He worked as a political researcher and in sales and marketing for Tim Waterstone, at WH Smith's book division.

During this time, he attempted to write a number of historical novels and plays, before finding success with Sarum.