A group of distinguished academics have come together to publish a book on Gwent's history.

'The Gwent County History: The Twentieth Century' has just been published by university of Wales Press. Dr Andy Croll, historian at the University of South Wales, co-edited the book and deployed 17 fellow historians to help describe the 20th century history of South East Wales.

The book is the fifth and last volume in a comprehensive history of Gwent and Monmouthshire from prehistoric times to the present day. It has been nine years since the first volume was published.

It follows a century that saw the county's transformation by world war, social change, economic realignment, political reconfiguration and religious scepticism.

Chapters detail the two World Wars and deep depression, as well as how the decline of mining and heavy industry shifted the balance of the county's economy.

Other chapters explore the life and leisure of ordinary people, including their cultural and sporting interests, their religion and the changes in the landscape of town and country.

The Gwent county History Association will be holding the official launch event on 20 September. on Friday 20 September at the Gwent Archives, Steelworks Road, Ebbw Vale.

The book can be bought online at gwales.com.