A retired accountant who has lived in Honor Oak Park all his life has written a book about the history of Brockley.

Anthony Watson, 72, decided to pen One Tree Hill to Brockley Green after his retirement, having documented bits of the area's history throughout his life.

"I have been writing bits and pieces over the years but I was always concentrating on work and family," Mr Watson told News Shopper.

When he had more free time after retiring, Mr Watson did more in depth research on the area and how it had changed over the years.

Although he has spent his life in south-east London, Mr Watson told News Shopper he was surprised to learn how rural Lewisham was until London expanded outwards from 1890.

While researching for the book, Mr Watson said he particularly enjoyed tracking down descendants of Victorians who he interviewed to help piece together Brockley's history.

In the preface of his book, he mentions the people he has known throughout his life who helped him write the book.

"I owe them much, and I am glad I listened to their old tales," he writes.

According to its author, the book features detailed chapters on Brockley Farm, the Brockley Jack pub, Honor Oak and One Tree Hill, and features 100 old images - 85 of which have been made public for the first time.

One Tree Hill to Brockley Green is now available to buy at W.H. Smith in Crystal Palace, Kirkdale bookshop in Sydenham, Ladywell post office and Amazon for £19.99.