Petit Parisien - Authors Release New Books Highlighting Worcestershire's History and Landscapes

Authors Julia Goodfellow-Smith and Mike have released two new publications designed to introduce readers to the multifaceted character of Worcestershire. The titles, 'Walking in Worcestershire' and '111 Places in Worcestershire That You Shouldn’t Miss', offer distinct but complementary perspectives on the county’s geography, history, and culture.

The pair began researching 'Walking in Worcestershire' for publisher Cicerone, while '111 Places in Worcestershire That You Shouldn’t Miss' was developed for the German publisher Emons. Their work seeks to balance the county’s reputation as a pastoral landscape of meadows, rivers, and lakes with its significant role in industrial history.

Goodfellow-Smith and Mike note that Worcestershire is often viewed through specific historical lenses. Historians recognize it as the site where the British Civil Wars both began and ended, as well as a center for monastic learning. Music enthusiasts associate the county with composer Sir Edward Elgar, soprano Jenny Lind, Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, whose roots are in Redditch, and numerous local music festivals.

From a scientific perspective, the authors highlight research conducted in the region that contributed to the Allied victory in the Second World War, as well as modern studies into deep space.

The development of '111 Places' was sparked by chance encounters during their research. Goodfellow-Smith recounted walking into Bromsgrove when her partner, Mike, noticed a familiar face at the Ladybird Inn. The acquaintance, Jules Evans, introduced him to a group that included town crier Kevin Ward.

Evans and her friends suggested Mike visit the railway workers’ graves in St John’s Churchyard. This led to extensive research into the history behind the graves, which is detailed in chapter 13 of the book. The authors aimed to highlight quirky and unusual stories about places that local residents might not already know.

Goodfellow-Smith also described unexpected discoveries during her research, particularly at the Church of the Sacred Heart in Droitwich. She expressed surprise at finding a church with extensive mosaics comparable to those found in Italy. Describing the interior as resembling a giant golden glitterball, she noted that every surface above eye height was covered in Venetian glass tiles depicting St Richard de Wyche and biblical stories.

Another key feature highlighted in their work is the view of the Birmingham skyline from the Lickey Hills. Goodfellow-Smith described the experience of walking in the hills as feeling like being in a different world, despite the proximity to one of the UK’s largest cities. The Lickey Hills Country Park is now open to the public, with the Beacon Hill Toposcope offering a view indicator just steps from the car park.

Both books are available through standard book retailers, including independent bookshops and Amazon, as well as at locations featured within the texts.

S.Lebrun--PP