Rare space atlas up for grabs

By Cara Sulieman

A RARE atlas of space is up for grab after being donated by a mystery benefactor.

Stunned Christian Aid volunteers found a pristine copy of an 1822 celestial atlas by Scottish amateur astronomer Alexander Jamieson among donations to their annual book sale.

With 30 colour plates illustrating the stars in the night sky, it is not only well preserved but also a valuable volume.

Dr Ried Zulager, an expert on antique books who flies from Washington DC every year to help with the specialist books in the sale, said he was delighted to have found such a gem.