John's book reveals a secret side of Shrewsbury that locals did not know

And he has lifted the lid on some of these "secret" spots in a self-published book which is the culmination of years of research.

It is called "My Shrewsbury" and puts together everything he has learned about the county town, its building and places, and shares it with readers.

Born in Liverpool, he came to Shropshire as a toddler, living in Whitchurch, and then moved to Shrewsbury on marriage at the age of 21, and fell in love with the town, and wanted to know all about its fascinating buildings.

And it seems his book is a real eye-opener for some locals.

"People I've been selling it to have said they have lived in Shrewsbury all their lives and don't really know a lot about the buildings," said John, who is in his 70s.

"Opposite St Mary's Church there's a shop called Vinegar Hill, and around the back of there is an old mansion which nobody knows is there. It's actually at the back of the Prince Rupert Hotel.

"And there's a beautiful little garden behind St Julian's Church. I think I have described it as an oasis in the middle of the town. It's absolutely gorgeous, a lovely spot, but people don't know it's there."

As for his research, he said: "I've been doing local history for many years. It started with a Birmingham University course at the Gateway in Shrewsbury, which whetted my appetite. Since then I've amassed all sorts of information, and people who have seen it have said 'You ought to put this in a book'. That's how it came about.

"I've self-published it – I'm a one-man band. It's available from the Bear Steps. I have found that bookshops want 40 per cent to sell it. I'm only getting my own money back on it – I haven't done it to make any money."

The paperback is available from the Bear Steps in Shrewsbury or directly from John himself on (01743) 364337. It costs £6.50.

Now retired, John, who lives in Meole Brace, had a varied working life.

"I've done lots of different jobs. I was a supermarket manager, painter and decorator, milkman, taxi driver – I'm a people person."