A BOOK focusing on the miners of Doon Valley had a successful launch last weekend.

'The Last Miners of Ayrshire's Doon Valley' was launched at an event in the Dalmellington Community Centre on Saturday November7.

The event saw a whopping 238 books sold in under four hours.

Author of the book, Donald Reid said: "Many of the old miners featured in the book came along which was really first class and several were in tears as they saw the book for the first time. Children from Bellsbank and Dalmellington Primary Schools also took part in the launch and their mining theme art was on display whilst several others read mining theme poems. It really was very special."

The book is now flying off the shelves at Waterstones in High Street Ayr and there is a book signing on Saturday December 12 from 2pm.

Donald added: "I have personally posted books to the USA, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Norway and South Africa.

"The feedback from recipients has been very encouraging indeed.

"I can't really thank Sharon Rowan Smith and members of Dalmellington Community Association enough for their encouragement and support."

Royalties arising from sales will benefit Dalmellington Band, Dalmellington Scouts (33rd Ayrshire), Doon Valley Family History Society and all schools in the upper reaches of the Doon Valley.

The book is available by contacting Donald only via post at the address below price £18 including postage. The book is also available direct from Waterstones Book Shop, High Street, Ayr.

You can contact Donald at: Donald L Reid, 7 Manuel Avenue, Beith, KA15 1BJ, Tel: 01505 503801, M: 07814614345, e: donaldleesreid@hotmail.com, www.facebook.com/donald.reid.401.