CRIME writing fans have spent 12 weeks casting thousands of votes to select rising star, Mark Billingham and his novel Lazy Bones as the first ever winner of the Theakston's Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year, the only crime literary award to be voted for by the general public.

Mark beat off strong competition to claim the coveted prize with fellow shortlisted authors. He pipped to the post a host of other leading names in crime writing including, Simon Kernick, Val McDermid, Ian Rankin, Minette Walters, Andrew Taylor, Reginald Hill and Alexander McCall Smith.

Mark received £3,000 and a handmade, engraved beer barrel at the opening ceremony of the Theakston's Old Peculier Harrogate Crime Writing Festival, presented by sponsor Simon Theakston.

The Theakston's Old Peculier Harrogate Crime Writing Festival, a celebration of crime and detective literature, is now in its third year and attracts a large audience from around the world.

SIR Bobby Robson will be signing copies of his autobiography, Farewell But Not Goodbye, at WH Smith, in the MetroCentre, tomorrow at 6pm.

Former Newcastle United boss Sir Bobby has enjoyed phenomenal popularity in the North-East and has been witness to some of the most historic sporting moments throughout his incredible career. In his book he relives leading England through two World Cups, and the pain of coming within a penalty kick of the 1990 World Cup final.

Published: 26/07/2005