Rockingham Castle: New book charts its owners from William the Conqueror to Lord-Lieutentant of Northamptonshire

The colourful past of Rockingham Castle and its select group of owners has been charted in a new book.

Rockingham – The Story of a Castle tells the story of the people who have lived there since it was established 950 years ago.

It is the eighth book by author Meriel Buxton who has lived most of her life within 15 miles of Rockingham and has known family members for many years.

Only two families have ever owned the castle since it was built by William the Conqueror.

It belonged to the royal family up until King Henry VIII before the Watson family - now Saunders Watson - took on its running.

The family has served the country in the navy for several centuries, and fought at senior level through both World Wars.

In its time, Rockingham has withstood siege, been captured by the Roundheads during the English Civil War, and inspired Charles Dickens in writing Bleak House.

Several Kings of England gave Rockingham to their wives, while King John was alleged to have left his treasure there.

The 308-page volume, published by Woodperry Books, is available at £25 from bookshops or from the author by e-mailing meriel@ccqltd.com