Cement, Mud and Muddies, Frank G. Willmott

I had a stroll around Rochester yesterday and spent considerable time rummaging around the plethora of books and other interesting items at City Books (41 High Street, Rochster, ME1 1LN). I found a copy of the book 'Cement, Mud and Muddies' by Frank Willmott, which was first published by Meresborough Books in 1977. Although more than thirty years old, this book accurately explains the history of Medway's cement industry and includes many fascinating photographs and illustrations. Due to my own clay-digging family heritage in Stoke, I am particularly drawn to the section about the Muddies from Stoke and Hoo.

On the subject of Medway's cement history, there is an excellent section about this on the website of Berengrave Local Nature Reserve (the Friends of Berengrave), which can be viewed by clicking here.

Peninsula Round, Des Worsdale

I found this item on eBay last week and simply had to buy it! This 48-page booklet, written (and drawn) by Des Worsdale, features a collection of drawings and historical information about the Hoo Peninsula. Published in the 1980's, by Meresborough Books, this is a decent guide for anyone interested in the the area. The ISBN is '0905270 568'. Although a small publication, this booklet is packed full of history, walks, maps and drawings!