A group of villagers are publishing a book which documents the history of three mills.

The Mills of Ickleford gives an insight into the history and stories behind West Mill, Ickleford Mill and Hyde Mill.

The book, which will be published by Ickleford Parish Council, has been compiled by seven volunteers from the Hyde Mill Group and features research of each mill, historic maps, photographs, paintings and sketches by artists.

It also includes memories of those who have used the mills.

The group’s research took more than four years following advice and support from Hitchin Historical Society, Hertfordshire Archives and Local Studies, and North Herts District Council’s museum services.

Parish councillor and group representative Colin Thurstance said: “It is the first time the parish council has published a book. It is a portrayal of history of all three of the mills.

“All the information has been pulled together and will be around for a long time.”

The book will contain more than 110 pages and is available at a pre-publication discount price of £9.99 – plus £2.50 postage and packing per copy – for orders placed before September 1.

The book will go on general sale for £11.99 at a launch event in Ickleford village hall on November 15.

For order forms, visit the website at www.icklefordpc.com.