Ref. 26992-31THREE of Swindon's most prominent citizens have been selected to join the stars in the latest edition of Who's Who.

The book has been printed for 150 years and features the biographies of those who have made the biggest impact on UK society.

Now readers will see the names of Philip Williamson, who has been the chief executive of Nationwide Building Society since 2002; Helen Browning, an organic farmer and businesswoman and virologist Patricia Nuttall.

The trio will join 31 other Swindonians to have appeared in the book over the years.

This latest addition has 32,000 entries but the book doesn't come cheap. It carries a £135 price tag.

Who's Who, affectionately known as the Snobs' Bible, allows people to pen their life histories.

There has been a notable rise in the number of women making it into the book.

Helen Browning, 42, who is the director of Eastbrook Farm, in Bishopstone, started farming organically in 1986.

Ms Browning, who was awarded an OBE in 1998, now supplies Tesco, Sainsbury's and Waitrose with a range of meat and vegetables.

She said: "I am delighted. It's very nice to be included in the book.

"Women are still way behind men when it comes to getting the high-profile jobs. More women are keeping away from the corporate structure and setting themselves up in business."

Professor Patricia Nuttall, 50, has worked at NERC Centre for Ecology and Hydrology in North Star Avenue, since 2001. She was awarded an OBE in 2000.

She helps the Government devise environmental policy, striking a balance between the needs of the environment and the material demands of the country.

"I am very pleased to be featured in this book," she said. "It is encouraging to see more women in the book. My field is still very much dominated by men."

Other women to make it into the book include ITV news presenter Katie Derham, marathon record holder Paula Radcliffe and Titanic star Kate Winslet.

Meanwhile, Philip Williamson, 56, who holds the top job at Nationwide which has its UK headquarters in Pipers Way said: "I am honoured to be included in Who's Who.

"This is more than just a personal achievement, it is also recognition of the work Nationwide has done to successfully champion issues on behalf of consumers."

Vicky Harrison, a spokeswoman for the book, said: "The selection is shrouded in secrecy and we never give details why entries are included.

"The panel has to be sure people will stand the test of time and will be known in years to come."

Kevin Shoesmith