IT WAS once an important centre for rope making and a French admiral was imprisoned there after the Battle of Trafalgar.

Bishop's Waltham is steeped in history and now some of its secrets have been revealed in a new booklet.

Entitled Discover Bishop's Waltham, the publication features a trail taking visitors on an easy-to-follow walk.

There are also historical references to the town's past and entertaining anecdotes.

The parish council's tourism strategy group came up with the idea for the booklet which was put together by Winchester City Council.

Parish council chairman Eric Birbeck said: "As well as benefiting our visitors, we hope that the new leaflet will benefit the local economy by encouraging more people to come here. We hope it will provide an incentive to those who do visit to spend longer - and spend more money - in the town."

Also being launched alongside the new trail guide is the latest edition of Bishop's Waltham town guide with information on the town's services and activities.

Winchester City Council's head of tourism Eloise Appleby said: "This has been an eye-opening project for Winchester City Council's tourism marketing team. We have all learnt a great deal about Bishop's Waltham."

Copies of Discover Bishop's Waltham and the new town guide are available from Bishop's Waltham Parish Council offices at Well House, 2 Brook Street, Bishop's Waltham or by calling 01489 892323.