A new book on Frome and the surrounding area has been released by Amberley Publishers as part of its hugely successful ‘secret’ series.
It has been written by two local men Andrew Pickering and Gary Kearley, who started collaborating on the book when Gary was a mature student on a history heritage and archaeology degree course at Strode College in Street, where Andrew was the lead tutor. Whilst this is Gary’s first published work, Andrew has numerous titles to his name including several on witchcraft and an acclaimed book on American John Steinbeck’s visit to Somerset and his retelling of the Arthurian legend.
‘Secret Frome’ takes a different approach to other offerings by focusing on lesser-known aspects of the town including chapters on the witches of Selwood Forest and the history hidden beneath the streets, including stories of the Frome Tunnels.
Gary acknowledges that there are already plenty of books about Frome but as he says, “It’s a great place with a lot of history and there is always room for a new book that presents something different to the public.”
Lavishly illustrated in full colour with 100 high quality photographs, this book will introduce Frome characters such as Ankarette Twynyho, whose death in 1477 led to the execution of King Edward IV’s brother and William Maggs, deported to Australia for milking his neighbour’s cow. Stories of murders, tragic accidents and bloodshed mean that this new book offers something different to both delight and shock the reader.
The book which retails at £14.99 is available from outlets throughout the town as well as on E-Bay and Amazon and would make a great Christmas present for anyone interested in the hidden side of Frome.
