THE real-life story of a "fearless" but overlooked First World War hero has been uncovered by an author from Eldwick.

Historian Barry Marsden has written: "Camel Combat Ace – The Great War Flying Career of Edwin Swale CBE OBE DFC".

It is available now, published by Pen and Sword Aviation.

Captain Swale destroyed 17 enemy aircraft over the course of his First World War career, gaining well deserved acclaim at the time.

But since then his name and story has slipped from the public's awareness.

Mr Marsden, who has previously had books published on a variety of historical subjects, documents all of Captain Swale's operations, including patrols, escorting bombers, bombing and strafing missions.

A Pen and Sword spokesman explained: "Edwin Swale served with 210 Squadron RAF, piloting Sopwith Camel fighter planes between March and October 1918.

"During this time, he destroyed an impressive total of seventeen enemy aircraft – the majority being the formidable German Fokker DVII fighter – and undertook a series of perilous operations.

"Swale was a fearless fighter ace, accustomed to patrolling the skies above the Western Front in his wood-and-canvas biplane minus protective armour or even a parachute.

"His bravery earned him multiple decorations and continued until the end of the conflict and beyond.

"When the Second World War took hold, he rejoined the RAF and ultimately served as an intelligence officer with the Second Tactical Air Force.

"His son Duncan followed his father’s flying lead, joining the RAF and flying low-level intruder operations in de Havilland Mosquitoes, earning a DFC of his own in the process, along with the prized US DFC.

"Using personal diaries and log-books preserved by the family, Barry M Marsden has crafted a compelling account of Swale’s life that is rich in first-hand detail.

"The book stands as a tribute to the Great War airmen who continue to inspire to this day."

The 112-page hardback is on sale now for £16.99 from bookshops and on Amazon. People can also visit the publisher's website at pen-and-sword.co.uk/ to buy a copy.