A RELATIVE of the man known as the Oldham Giant is set to launch a book about his heroic ancestor at Oldham Parish Church on Thursday.

Thomas Scholes-Fogg is the sixth great grandson of Joseph Scholes - who died in 1814 and is buried in the church crypt - and will be travelling to the borough to unveil the short publication about his life and career at 11am.

Joseph - who earned the title due to his 6ft 7in stature and weighing 38 stone - was a governor of Oldham workhouse, soldier and town crier and prevented the assassination of priest.

Known as the 'gentle giant' - as well as 'King Dody and Big Dody' - he become a local hero for speaking up for apprentices who were recruited from the workhouse and found themselves bullied and underfed by weavers.

Tom said proceeds from the booklet will go towards church funds in recognition of looking after and preserving the resting place of Joseph for so long.

Tom's grandfather, John Scholes - who spent his careers as a police sergeant in Oldham and Chadderton - will also attend the launch.

Parish church associate priest and Dean of Oldham, the Rev Jean Hurlston, will be hosting the event and welcomes any interested local history groups and individuals to come along.