THIS is the fifth edition ofThe Hidden Places of Lancashire and Cheshire (Travel Publishing at £8.99), a well-written and beautifully presented travel guide covering the region.

The counties of Lancashire and Cheshire are two regions, which, undeservedly, are not recognised as major tourist destinations, but which possess a wealth of beautiful scenery and fascinating histories.

Lancashire has been a driving force behind England's industrial, political, social and cultural development, and at the same time has kept its rich scenery and a plethora of picturesque towns and villages.

Cheshire is a county of scenic contrasts with high moorlands and crags found in the east of the county, soft red sandstone country of the Mersey and Dee in the west, and a rich, pastoral landscape in the south.

The Hidden Places of Lancashire and Cheshire is written in an attractive narrative style and is packed with information on the more secluded and little known venues for food, drink, accommodation and places of interest as well as the more enduring attractions of the county.

Derrick Grocock