His widow, Sheila, and son, Raymond, will travel from Kent to attend the event.

"I know Ken would be very proud of the fact his book is being launched in the local library," said Mrs Wilson. "He tells in the book how his father, who was a Barlick councillor for more than 15 years, campaigned energetically for a library and how the pair worked in it when it opened because free books were such a novelty.

"The librarian was overwhelmed at the time."

The book tells of day-to-day life in the town during 1936 which saw the death of George V, the abdication of Edward VII and appointment of George VI.

So far, 100 copies have been printed, 50 in hardback and 50 in paperback, and they will be on sale at the launch for £10.50 and £5.

It is Mr Wilson's third book about life in Barnoldswick. His previous work includes "My Days Are Swifter Than A Weaver's Shuttle" and a book about the loss of hospital ship Rohilla.

Mrs Wilson and Mr Dennis Cairns, of Barnoldswick History Society, have been the prime movers in getting this limited edition published. They will be joined at the launch by Mr Jim Gill and members of the Bancroft Mill Engine Trust.

Mr Wilson took a great interest in the museum, which he opened in 1982, and all proceeds from the sale of the book are to go to the organisation.