ANYWHERE else in Britain an island with a ruined castle, a pub and a regular ferry link would be a major tourist attraction but, being at the very end of the Furness peninsula, Piel Island is largely ignored by all but locals and the few others who know its special qualities.

Jack Nicholson who, for six years, was King of Piel, the historic tile bestowed upon the licensee of the island pub, has now revealed some of the island magic in a book. Tales of Piel Island (£5.99), which is available from him at Newland Mill Farmhouse, Newland, Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 7QG.