Bøker av David C. Rayment

A celebration of Southend's rich heritage and identity - its special events, achievements, people, industry and landmarks.

The name Wickford is of Saxon origin, Wick meaning a winding river and Ford being a shallow river crossing. For many years this sleepy market town lay dormant, like a seed waiting spring. Spring arrived in the 1970s with the building of the Willows, establishing itself during the following decade with the opening of Ladygate, the Wickford bypass and the rebuilding of the east side of the High Street opposite Halls Corner. Such development has perhaps eroded some of Wickford's character as seen in old photographs, but this has been replaced by a sense of dynamism afforded by a growing commuter town. Its surrounding area has changed too, but less so in comparison, remaining in the most part rural. This lavishly illustrated book gives the reader the opportunity to travel through time, drawing comparisons between how it is now, and how it used to be.

Three hundred years ago Southend was an insignificant hamlet at the south end of Prittlewell parish. During the late eighteenth century it began to gain popularity as a seaside resort. Lady Hamilton stayed here in the nineteenth century, as did Princess Caroline, wife of King George IV. Jane Austen mentions Southend in Emma as does H. G. Wells in War of the Worlds. Today Southend is not only a popular seaside resort. It has its own airport at nearby Rochford which is now served by a recently purpose-built railway station giving access to London. Join the author on this exciting visual tour of Southend, giving the reader a unique insight into how this well-loved town has changed over time. Southend Through Time will be essential reading for anyone who knows and loves the area.