A WORCESTERSHIRE trio is rubbing shoulders with the likes of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman by appearing in a world-famous reference book.

Who's Who, the book that compiles more than 32,000 biographies of the people who interest and influence us, has added 1,000 new entries in its 2005 edition, including three prominent Worcestershire men.

Paul West, Chief Constable of West Mercia Constabulary since 2003, makes his debut and gives us a glimpse of his life with a modest, self-penned 11-line entry.

The father-of-six gives a brief history of his education and career, which includes a degree from Oxford.

He lists his recreations as "classical music, sports (particularly football), gardening and family" in that order and said he was delighted and tremendously flattered to be asked to contribute to this year's Who's Who.

He said: "Although it might sound rather trite, I consider my inclusion to represent yet another recognition of the hard work and commitment of everyone working for the Constabulary."

Joining Mr West is David Bennett, managing director of Sanctuary Housing Group based in Castle Street, Worcester, who reveals his favourite pastimes are "music, photography and game fishing".

Also making a debut is Lord Penrhyn of Colwall, near Malvern, who inherited his title in 2003 following the death of his uncle. Eton-educated, the father-of-four was a director of Kidderminster carpet firm Brintons for eight years.

The Worcestershire trio are making their debuts along with television chefs Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Jamie Oliver, who, born in 1975, is one of this year's youngest entries.

Other well known faces include the singer-songwriter and guitarist Eric Clapton and the tennis star Tim Henman. They will remain in Who's Who until their death when they will be automatically transferred to Who Was Who.

Who's Who 2005 becomes the 157th edition of the annually published reference book and will be available from most bookstores or online at www.ukwhoswho.com for £140.