AN AMBITIOUS project to write a detailed history of the thousand-year-old market town of Kirkbymoorside is in line to coincide with the 750th anniversary of the granting of its market and fair charter.

Each Thursday, a team of local stalwarts and historians meet to write what is to be known as Kirkbymoorside Times, to be published in monthly sections starting next March.

Headed by chairman Bill Goodall, the team consists of photo archivist Robin Butler, treasurer Norman Helm, town councillor, author and secretary Barry Brook, and sound archivist Chris Boddy.

Extensive research is being carried out, using trade directories dating back 150 years, and the Malton Messenger, forerunner of the Evening Press's sister paper, the Gazette and Herald, and interviewing Kirkbymoorside's older generation.

During its investigations into the town's wealth of history, the group has discovered that the Royal Charter, which granted its fair and later its market - still held each Wednesday - was granted in 1254. The final section of the 12-part history is due to be published in February 2004 - 750 years after the historic charter was granted.

Coun Brook has filled an amazing 130 tapes, with interviews with local residents spanning 200 hours of conversation.

He said the use of information technology was enabling the history to be compiled and written and when completed it was hoped to set up a history group in Kirkbymoorside. Some 12 issues of the history covering 15 different topics have been researched. The group is seeking at least 100 subscribers to sign up to take all 12 editions to make the publication viable.

"The more we research and talk to people the more that is coming to light," said Mr Goodall.

"It is a fascinating history and is already attracting a lot of interest."

Each of the monthly £2 editions of Kirkbymoorside Times will have between 13 and 17 chapters, and can be ordered from Coun Brook at 6 Crown Square, phone 01751 431841.

Updated: 10:47 Thursday, December 12, 2002