PEOPLE buying a new guide to one of England's most historic cities could end up claiming a reward.

Anyone who solves all the riddles in The Winchester Treasure could find themselves the winner of a unique treasure hunt which uses the city's history as a backdrop.

The book has been produced by Philip Kellingley and his partner, Alexandra Almond, both of whom are Blue Badge Tourist Guides for the Southern Tourist Board and have a wealth of knowledge about Winchester.

Readers can either just use the book as a sightseeing guide or follow the hunt for the treasure by answering questions based on the city's history.

Contained within the pages are clues to where the treasure was hidden and what it was, and the first person to solve the mystery also gets to keep the treasure.

Philip, 57, from Calmore, said: "We wanted to do something that was enjoyable, but which could also show people some of the parts of the city we really like.

"We thought if we could combine a treasure hunt with a tour, then it would be something people would really enjoy and remember."

* The Winchester Treasure is now available at most good bookshops in Winchester and online at www.winchestertreasure.com.