Maurice Fells Livres

Fascinating and bizarre facts about Somerset life, new in paperback

Bristol in the south-west of England has plenty to be proud of when it comes to famous people. Some were born in the city while others were drawn to it by its colourful heritage, adventurous spirit and vibrant atmosphere of culture and enterprise. A few names, like that of the explorer John Cabot, have been woven into the fabric of the city's heritage. However, other people who helped to shape today's rich environment are hardly remembered. This book draw Bristol's famous and not-so-famous sons and daughters together in one fascinating volume.

Bristol's history is packed with peculiar customs and curious characters. and how the Flower of Bristol got its name. You will meet some unusual contraptions, like the bed with in-built exercise equipment, or the thrashing machine for naughty boys. You will also discover why a public clock still runs to Bristol time.

A rich, and indeed sometimes bizarre, thread of history weaves its way through the Bristol story. Along with a fresh look at city life past and present, these and many more anecdotes will surprise even those Bristolians who thought they really knew their city.

Blue, red, green and black plaques - they are everywhere in Bristol, on houses, bridges and even on a riverbank. The first volume of its kind, it is the only reference book to contain potted histories of Bristol's fascinating plaques.

A history of Bristol, told through the archives of the Evening Post and Western Daily Press.