I had an email from local historian and author Clive Roberts yesterday, pointing out that his latest book ‘Ramblings of a Local Historian’ is now available, but will sell out fast – so be quick if you want a copy for a present or just a Christmas treat for yourself!

Clive has previously written excellent and sought after books on Shire Oak, Walsall Wood and Brownhills. He comments and contributes frequently here on the blog and is a stalwart of the local history community.

I know that in this work, Clive covers a diverse range of subjects – including a lost canal wharf in Brownhills I knew nothing about, some great info on Manchester House in Brownhills High Street and the book will be packed with photos and archive material.

Clive wrote and published parts one and two of the pubs of Brownhills over the last two years, which have proven a great success, and this book continues Clive’s painstaking and fascinating work.

Clive wrote:

Hello Bob and readers of the blog.

It’s that time of year again!

I have now received my new local history work for our area from the printers ‘Rambling of a Local Historian’.

The book will be on sale at Brownhills Library from Wednesday 12th December. The book covers mainly Brownhills; there’s a bit on Clayhanger; Pelsall; and Walsall Wood also.

Price: £8 each and there’s 59 pages.

I will also put it for sale on eBay next week.

When they’re gone they’re gone, so please get in quick!

Best wishes
Clive L. Roberts

I haven’t yet got my copy, but when I do I’ll post a full review here – Clive’s previous works have garnered him a great reputation for well researched, engaging local history writing that uncovers detail that others may well miss. They are written in a friendly, conversational style and are an absolute treat.

If you have any questions or observations for Clive, please do comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at  Googlemail dot com, and I’ll draw them to his attention.

I wish Clive all the best and look forward to reading his new book!