BATTLE of Britain enthusiasts flocked to Worcester Guildhall for the launch of a new book exploring local connections with the fight for supremacy in the skies.

Worcester author Dilip Sarkar was at the city venue on Saturday for an official book-signing, joined by guests such as Lady Bader, wife of heroic war pilot Douglas Bader, and remaining Battle of Britain pilots.

The latest book, entitled Battle of Britain: The Photographic Kaleidoscope Volume IV, also features a ''new'' picture of missing-in-action flying officer Franek Surma, whose Spitfire was recovered by the former Malvern Spitfire Team in 1987.

Local legend, group captain Alexander Gabszewicz, who died in 1982, is also shown in pictures, donated by his wife who lives in Colwall, near Malvern.

Newly-discovered veteran D G Williams, of Kempsey, appears after his role as groundcrew on one of the two Blenheim night-fighter squadrons serving throughout the Battle of Britain.

Mr Sarkar, a serving West Mercia police officer, has also dedicated a book to flying ace Douglas Bader, entitled Douglas Bader: An Inspiration in Photographs.