A FORMER Bradford education officer is inviting old schoolfriends and colleagues to the launch of his new book, recollecting his work in the city.

Donald Naismith worked in education administration until the local government re-organisation of 1974. In his book, A Bradford Apprenticeship, described as "an affectionate tribute to his adopted city" he recalls his time at school and working in the city's education department, "still powerfully evocative of Bradford's days as an outstanding education pioneer".

The book will be launched with lunch and drinks at Bradford's Midland Hotel on Friday from 12noon to 2pm. The event will be attended by the principal of Macmillan College and the Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Alun Griffiths.

"I would like to invite surviving schoolfriends from Whetley lane, Lilycroft (1943-49) and Belle Vue Boys Grammar School (1949-57) and former education department colleagues (1967-74)," said Mr Naismith.