FORMER Herefordshire journalist Harry Pugh has died after a long illness.

Welsh-born Mr Pugh, who worked for the Express Newspapers group for many years, lived at Priors Frome, near Hereford.

In later life, he operated as a freelance journalist from a converted stable in the grounds of his cottage.

Mr Pugh wrote a number of successful books about true crime cases and was well-known as a walking enthusiast and countrylover.

Mr Pugh died peacefully at his home in Leek, Staffordshire. He is survived by his wife Barbara.