28531Pensioner Keith War- burton discovered a 100 year old guide to the village while clearing out his late father-in-law's possessions.

The book, entitled Beauties of Bratton, was published in 1906 and is written almost entirely in poetry.

Written by Bratton resident Mary Reeves, it seems to be a guide to attract visitors and a copy is proving popular reading in the village pub, The Duke.

It begins: "I've travelled a bit and seen a lot, and I say it in all sincerity, I never saw a prettier spot."

The guide then describes the village's many highlights, which included four bakeries, before ending with a plea "For the rest; well come and see, you'll find it better than a visit to the sea. Though we haven't the donkeys, better still, we've horses and carriages to take you up the hill."

Mr Warburton, a 65-year-old former engineer and local history enthusiast, said the guide had helped him get a better understanding of how Bratton developed.

Ian Overend, landlord of The Duke, said: "The tourist board didn't exist in those days so it is more likely to be the parish council that made it.

"Mary Reeves was the only unmarried daughter of the family that owned the foundry."