Former Keighley man Kenneth Joul has written a Da Vinci Code-style conspiracy thriller.

Riddlesden-born Mr Joul wrote Legacy of the Ancients after retiring from his career as a council clerk.

He found the time after moving to Bridlington in 2005 following 30 years living in Wakefield.

The book, described as a rollercoaster read, has been published by Melrose Books.

Mr Joul most of his childhood on a farm near Oakworth, and attended Keighley Boys' Grammar School.

He began his career with Keighley Borough Council in the treasurer's and town clerk's departments.

He then spent 20 years with Wakefield Council and a further 10 years at the IKEA store in Leeds.

Mr Joul has written Legacy of the Ancients in the style of favourite authors like Alistair McLean, Clive Cussler and Matthew Reilly.

He said the book was about a man going against the odds and giving the earth breathing space to solve the problems of climate change.

His hero is a former Marine works for the government as a troubleshooter unravelling conspiracies and exposing cover-ups. Legacy of the Ancients, which features a sinister global syndicate and a team of assassins, is available from Melrose Books fo r£10.99. Contact 01353 646608 or marketing@melrosebooks.com.