THE widespread groups of homes which make up Kirkby still have the use of village pubs, a store, churches and a garage but have lost the trades and crafts which once made the community almost self sufficient.

Just how much has gone for good, or has seen radical change, can be seen in Paradise Lost, a new booklet in the Kirkby Fragments series from the History of Kirkby Group.

Some fascinating old buildings fell into ruin while many others became houses — including the Railway Inn and the Gospel Hall.

There was once a bakery, a thriving Kirkby Co-operative Society, a veterinary surgery, a police station and a butcher — with his own abattoir.

You can find out more about the £3.50 booklet and the work of the History of Kirkby Group on its website at www.history-of-kirkby.org

Copies of the book at £3.50, plus £2 postage, and can be ordered by sending an email to alaric42@sky.com or can be purchased at Moorland Stores on the main road through Kirkby.

The group's first history talk of the year is by Dan Elsworth, of the Ulverston-based Greenland Archaeology from 2pm on February 19 at the Beckside Rooms, Kirkby. All are welcome.