Having been “sloping shoulders” for the last 3 weeks, I was really pleased to be back in harness this afternoon, especially as Brentwood based author, PATRICIA POUND came in to talk about her newly completed book called VOICES OF HORNCHURCH.

Based on the recollections of former residents of Hornchurch, some of whom have moved far away to places on the other side of the world, the book provides a unique insight of what life used to be like and creates an exceptional historic record of the heritage of the town for posterity. The recollections included, date back to the beginning of the 20th century so it will come as little surprise that many of the contributors to the book are well into their 80’s and 90’s. For this reason their memories have special significance.

‘Voices of Hornchurch’ is available from all good bookshops, W.H.Smith, Waterstones and Swan Books in Upminster, Amazon online and direct from the publisher The History Press  at £12.99.

The interview with Patricia can be heard again in full, here: – [audio:https://www.phoenixfm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Patricia-Pound-interview.mp3|titles=Patricia Pound interview]

Not to be outdone, later in the programme, Frances Clamp provided an interesting insight into Billericay’s Cater Museum. Her contribution can be heard again here: – [audio:https://www.phoenixfm.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Bygones-31st-January.mp3|titles=Bygones 31st January]

My thanks go out to Patrick Sherring, Bob Simpson and Dave Turner for doing such sterling work sitting in for me during the past 3 weeks. I’m afraid to say that I’m off again next week, helping my wife out at a local amateur dramatics performance by the Castle Point Players at St George’s Church Hall in Thundersley. My thanks to Paul Golder and Ed Wellman who have kindly stepped into my shoes to handle next week’s show. As this is the day of the move to our new studios in the Brentwood Centre, they will be joined by the Brentwood County High School Choir at 12:30 and by Ben Konstantinovic at 1:30

On my return in two weeks time, two very talented Essex based singer/songwriters, Drew-Levi Huntsman and Jae Frost will be popping into the show. Really looking forward to that!

Hope to see you next Tuesday at 2 or failing that back here with my PACKED LUNCH in two weeks time. In the meantime, do your best to keep warm.

All the best,

Scott