A DARLINGTON historian and author is retiring as a volunteer walks guide after 24 years.

George Flynn, 78, has guided walks in the town since 1997. He previously worked for Durham County Council.

Originally from Manchester, Mr Flynn moved to Darlington in 1962 with his wife Brenda and family, when he became chief clerk for the district engineer for British Rail's North Eastern Region.

Mr Flynn's local and historical knowledge allowed him to guide walks on a number of topics, both urban and rural.

He has also found time to write - he took inspiration from old photographs and the town's heritage to write seven books.

Mr Flynn used his railway knowledge to produce the Rail Heritage Trail, in partnership with Darlington Borough Council.

This work is being used in a new Darlington guide, to be launched shortly, which encourages self-guided walks around the borough.

Mr Flynn is also well known as a part-time tutor at Darlington College of Technology and the Workers' Educational Association. He won the NIACE Adult Tutors' award in 2001, and was chairman of the WEA from 1980 to 2000. He is now honorary president.

To recognise his hard work, a presentation will be made to Mr Flynn on Monday, at 5.30pm at the town hall.