TWO Cotswold friends have joined forces once again to produce an evocative book about the area they grew up in and and have always loved.

Photographer Betty Stocker, from Chipping Campden, and writer Tooty Gibbs from Shipston, first joined forces in 2009 when they brought out "Country Folk Country Ways", a nostalgic book about life in the Cotswolds, which proved so popular it was re-printed twice.

"We were contemplating a third reprint but, given the wealth of subject matter all around us, we decided to produce a completely new book instead," said Tooty.

And so "More Country Folk Country Ways: Reflections of the Cotswolds" has just been published and once again it is full of Betty's atmospheric pictures, accompanied by Tooty's warm prose.

The subject matter covers a whole range of country pursuits, pastimes and traditions, including everything from morris dancing in Chipping Campden just after dawn on May 1 to sheep showering, which has largely replaced sheep dipping.

Betty and Tooty, who were both brought up in the area, have been friends for 18 years after meeting at Chipping Campden Baptist Church.

They share a deep love of the Cotswolds which they hope their new book reflects to readers.

Asked what she thinks makes the Cotswolds so special, Tooty said: "Wherever you are in the Cotswolds you come across such a fabulous mix of local characters and visitors from all over the world - whether you're shopping in the bustling market towns or out walking in the stunning hills.

"Stanton is one of my favourite places - pretty, peaceful, lovely walks all around and a super pub."

The new book, priced £12.99, is available from Betty Stocker on 01386 840759 or via bettystocker.com.