SIX months of research and hard work has culminated in the creation of a new book detailing the interesting history of Iddesleigh Church, released just before the death of its author.

The Story of St James’ Church, Iddesleigh, takes a look back at the history of the late medieval church of the 15th century, which has been improved and added to over the succeeding years.

The book was researched and written by Iddesleigh resident Dave Dingley who has produced a number of books on the history of other notable buildings in the village.

Mr Dingley was approached by the Friends of St James’, who commissioned him to produce the book and despite a long battle with throat cancer, Mr Dingley spent months creating the book, uncovering facts that were unknown even to the long-term residents of the village.

Church warden Peter Banbury said: ‘Dave was desperately ill when he wrote the book; he had been poorly for a long time. It is a fantastic bit of work and he has uncovered bits of evidence that no-one knew about.

‘It took him about six months to research and write, during which time he was suffering quite badly — some days were worse than others, but we are incredibly thankful to him for what he has produced.

‘It would probably be of most interest to the people of Iddesleigh but it would also be of interest to anyone who is interested in church history. It is an interesting building that has been altered over the years.’

Mr Banbury said Mr Dingley had spent a lot of time in the North Devon record office and in libraries to gather facts and information about the church.

‘Once something is written down, people believe it to be true, but Dave discovered that some things that had been written in the past may not have been entirely accurate. He has done a lot of research so I have every confidence that what is written in the book is purely fact.’

Mr Dingley unfortunately lost his battle with cancer only a couple of weeks ago, but he was able to see the culmination of all his hard work before he died.

Copies of the book, which is raising money for the church, are available from the church or by writing to Mr Banbury at West Park, Iddesleigh, EX19 8EH.