A LOCAL author and dentist has impressed Her Majesty the Queen so much with his book about Blaisdon that she recently invited him to Buckingham Palace to deliver his latest edition.

Stephen Waters attended the palace with Baroness Jan Royall armed with a copy of his new book Blaisdon, Memories of the New Elizabethans 1964-2012, which Her Majesty requested after thoroughly enjoying his first book, Memories of a Country Parish 1935-1964.

While writing his second book, Stephen asked the Queen for her permission to dedicate it to her and sent a copy of his first book for her approval. In her reply, she said she liked the book so much she had it placed in the Royal Library at Windsor.

In giving permission for the dedication she also requested a copy of the new book – which is now also stored in the Royal Library.

In order to ensure the book arrived safely and in perfect condition, Stephen was thrilled to have the opportunity to deliver the book to Buckingham Palace where he met with the Queen's private secretary, Sir Christopher Geidt.

Stephen told the Review: "It was thrilling to go in the front door of the palace and meet Sir Christopher – we even had Duchy biscuits with our coffee. I have since had another letter from the palace saying that the Queen has had the new book placed in the Royal Library with the first book. I plan to write a third volume about the history of Blaisdon pre 1935 but I refer to that as my 'retirement' project."

More than 150 residents from both past and present of Blaisdon contributed to the second book which features 400 pages and more than 1,000 pictures in full colour.

Stephen said: "Most people living in Blaisdon have only known one monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, and the years covered by the latest volume reflects life in a small country parish during the majority of her reign. The people of Blaisdon are honoured that Her Majesty has given her permission for this book to be dedicated to her on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee.

"The middle years of the 20th century were explored in Volume Two through the memories of those who lived in Blaisdon. Now, the story of Blaisdon's 'New Elizabethans' is revealed, looking at those who have made Blaisdon home between 1964 and 2012...For those who have been lucky enough to live in Blaisdon during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, it remains a very special village and reflective of the many changes that have occurred in rural life during her time on the throne."

Copies of the book are available from Forest Bookshop, Coleford and Forest Guild Newnham.