A NEW book has shed fresh light on the tragic death of a balloonist at Haworth 115 years ago.

Award-winning author – and former Keighley News reporter – Sharon Wright uncovers new twists surrounding the incident in her paperback, The Lost History of the Lady Aeronauts.

Lily Cove plunged to her death from a balloon while performing at Haworth Gala in June, 1906.

At the inquest, her manager Captain Frederick Bidmead said Lily had caused her own death by removing her parachute to avoid landing in water. But Sharon’s research has revealed a different story.

“I’ve been a bit obsessed with Lily’s story since I first came across it as a cub reporter covering Haworth,” said Sharon. “When I took a closer look at Captain Bidmead’s evidence to the inquest, I found the shifty showman’s story was full of holes. After 115 years, I’ve finally cleared poor, brave Lily’s name.”

Sharon will be signing copies of her book at Wave of Nostalgia, in Main Street, Haworth, at 2pm on Friday (June 25).

Shop owner Diane Park said she was delighted to be hosting the signing, to celebrate Independent Bookshop Week.

“This is a book absolutely full of strong women ­– which is exactly the kind we love in my bookshop!” said Diane.

* The Lost History of the Lady Aeronauts is published by Pen & Sword and is priced £14.99.