THE Lakeland Book of the Year 2019 has been announced.

The Corpse Roads of Cumbria, by Alan Cleaver and Lesley Park, tells the story of those paths trodden by people transporting the dead across the countryside to their places of burial.

It was chosen for first prize from almost 60 entries, with the award being presented at Kendal’s Castle Green Hotel.

The judges - author Hunter Davies OBE, broadcaster Eric Robson and BBC newscaster Fiona Armstrong - offered their thoughts on the finalists before announcing the winners.

Speaking after the announcement, Lesley Park said: “We’d like to thank all of the judges and sponsors who help make these awards happen every year, there’s such a variety of topics showcased here and it’s truly fantastic to see them all recognised by a prestigious and long-running event – we can’t believe we won!”