A BOOK which tells the life stories of a host of individuals buried in a Kates Hill churchyard has gone on sale to raise funds to help save the church.

Researcher Chris Smith has penned Tales from a Churchyard in aid of St John’s Church Preservation Group, which are working to save and restore the iconic grade II listed building.

The book includes some of the fascinating life stories of people commemorated in the churchyard, including the Tipton Slasher, – English boxing champion William Perry – Marion Richardson, who revolutionised the way that art and handwriting were taught to children across the world and Mary Ann Mason, the young girl murdered in a Kates Hill pub by her jealous boyfriend.

There are also servicemen highlighted in the book, including a member of the famous Dambusters squadron and a local man who served an incredible 77 years in the army.

The book was officially launched at the Preservation Group’s stall on Dudley Market Place on February 6, with all profits going towards the fundraising efforts.

And during the first few hours, £400 worth of books were sold to shoppers.

One of the first to buy the book, which is priced £7.50 , was Dudley North MP Ian Austin, who is donating it to the library at the House of Commons.

Preservation group chairman Deb Brownlee said: “The book highlights some of the fascinating people who are buried at St John’s. It really reinforces the importance of the church and why it is worth preserving.”

Mr Austin said: “I am delighted to be buying Chris’s new book, which shows exactly why the work done by the St John’s Preservation Group is so important. The history in the graveyard alone is worthy of Chris’s time and publication.

“I am very proud to be taking my copy to the House of Commons and donating it to the library in Parliament.

“I want local people to come to the stall and show their support. St John’s Church represents a very important part of Dudley’s heritage and landscape. It is one of the most prominent buildings in our town and one of the first sights people see when visiting.

“It’s a beautiful building and embodies the local history I am for one am so proud of.”

The book can be bought from the Saturday stall, Tiwana Superstore in High View Street, Kates Hill and Dudley Archive, Coseley.

It can also be purchased by mail order by sending a cheque for £8.99 to St John’s Church Preservation Group, The Old School House, St John’s Road, Kates Hill, Dudley, DY2 7JT.

For more details, visit savestjohnschurch.zoomshare.com