THE last book that Devon photographer James Ravillious worked on before his death in 1999 is to be reprinted with the help of Devon County Council.

Down the Deep Lanes is a celebration of the county's rural heart, with text by English Heritage protection director Peter Beacham, who was honoured with an OBE in the recent Birthday Honours list.

The book was originally published by the Beaford Archive in 1999, shortly after Ravilious' death.

Down the Deep Lanes takes the reader on a journey into the heart of a countryside not usually acknowledged by guidebooks. The pictures and text penetrate the everyday existence in the rural south west — the lane, field and farmstead, the orchard and the vegetable garden, cob and corrugated iron, and the all pervading weather.

Devon Life Magazine described it as a marvellous collection of black and white photography that 'springs from deep affection and real, muddy-booted intimacy with Devon'.

Peter Beacham said: 'Working with James on this book was literally eye-opening.  He taught me how to look at everyday life in Devon in a way that made me delight in it ever more deeply.'

The county council's executive member for culture, Cllr Sheila Hobden, said: 'Ravilious' work was unique in capturing a Devon that moves beyond the chocolate box or the dramatic. We are delighted to be supporting a project that ensures another new group of readers will be able to enjoy his work.'

Local member John Rawlinson said: 'The Ravilious collection is a fantastic asset to have residing in Torridge, and to have this tribute to James' work reprinted is wonderful.

'Hopefully it will draw attention to his work to an even wider audience, and create even greater interest in the archive at Beaford.'

James Ravilious (1939–1999) is recognised as one of the greatest photographers and interpreters of English rural life. His work has been widely exhibited in this county and overseas.

Another Beaford Archive book, featuring Ravilious' photos, reprinted in November 2007 with support from Devon County Council, An English Eye, has already sold out.

Hardback: ISBN: 978-1-905622-15-3  price £39.95. Paperback: ISBN: 978-1-905622-16-0 price £19.95