Did you know you can access Oxford Dictionary of National Biography (DNB) online free with your library card?
This has the life stories of nearly 60,000 people who have shaped British history and culture from the Romans to 2010.
Just enter your name and library card number. A password is requested, however, it seems that this is not necessary.
Some local people are included in this illustrious listing, Emma Overd, Walter Bagehot, Vincent Stuckey, William, Edwin and John Quekett.
Wikipedia also lists all volumes A to Z
This link will get you started