A RETIRED book shop owner and local historian has written a book about Henry I and his links to Reading Abbey.

Lindsay Mullaney, 71, from Caversham has written the book 'Henry I and his Abbey' which is now available for people to buy.

READ ALSO: Reading's Haslams Estate Agents decorate windows with Christmas snow scene thanking key workers.

The book is part of the forthcoming celebrations for the 900th anniversary of the founding of Reading Abbey by Henry I in 1121.

Mrs Mullaney explained books written about the King were mainly aimed at academics and students but she wanted her book to be "for the people of Reading" to enjoy.

She revealed: "I really loved writing the book.

"It was great fun."

Mrs Mullaney's new book explores the life of Henry I who reigned for 35 years.

In 1135 Henry I arrived at a hunting lodge in France where he feasted on his favourite food - Lamprey fish.

It was this fish that gave him food poisoning and ultimately led to his death.

The King "insisted" he be buried at Reading Abbey, Mrs Mullaney explained, but his bones have never been found.

For 25 years Mrs Mullaney owned the Caversham Bookshop on Prospect Street with her husband John which is now the bar Chapter - a name Mrs Mullaney says is an homage to the former bookshop.

The couple retired from the shop in 2004 and set up their own imprint, Scallop Shell Press and have since published 30 books, a dozen of which they wrote themselves.

The books tend to focus on people, places and events relating to Reading.

The couple revealed they are supporters of the campaign to save Reading Gaol which sits beside the Abbey Ruins.

Mrs Mullaney said she would like to see the historic site turned into an arts centre.

READ ALSO: Dame Judi Dench wants to see Reading Gaol turned into arts and heritage site.

Mr Mullaney added: “It’s so important to the culture and history of Reading that the gaol is saved."

The couple attended the gaol hug last year which saw hundreds of people joining hands around the prison site to show their support for turning it into an arts and heritage site.

Recently, the sale of the Grade II-listed building fell through as the bidder withdrew.

If you would like to buy a copy of the book directly from the author, it costs £18.

To order, please contact Lindsay Mullaney, at ALMullaney@aol.com or by phone 0118 9470 478.