Books of Interest
A long awaited Guide Book to the Best Birdwatching Sites in North East England was finally published by Buckingham Press Ltd in 2012 written by well known North-East ornithologist Brian Unwin with Ian Kerr: Covering the counties of Cleveland, Co Durham and Northumberland. It is an excellent book, easily readable and suitable for all birdwatchers no matter what, be they complete novices or experienced birders. Brian has been as clear as possible about what facilities each site has, or not as in some cases. No one visiting these listed sites can fail to notice the detail that is encompassed in every part of this superb guide. The birds that one can expect to see at each site and the best times to see them is clearly indicated. The site maps, illustrations and artwork are second to none. Sadly the author Brian Unwin died at Christmas 2011 and his book had to be completed by his friend and fellow birder Ian Kerr. His loss is felt by many including this BNA Branch Organiser who was first introduced to bird watching in 1968 by Brian and was a lifelong friend. 'The Melton-Uppbury Village Mysteries', recently published novels by Sebastian Blanchard: 'The Melton-Uppbury Village Mysteries' (The Twitchers Invasion) Twitchers invade the normally quiet village scene causing mayhem and destruction. Two teenage birdwatchers help catch a renowned egg collector. The local Vicar the Rev Rosemary Fitter has the hots for the local pub landlord, and makes a bit of a show of herself. Ghostly monks are put finally to rest. The scene for this book is the East Coast of Lincolnshire, with plenty of colourful village characters. 'The Melton-Uppbury Village Mysteries' (The Monastic Hoard) Ghostly apparitions of Monks and Vikings, disturb the tranquility of this peaceful seaside village leading to an archaeological dig and a Viking Funeral. The local parish church is saved from closure by an unexpected windfall, and the undercover work of Dorothy Burton a Theology student . If you like books set in a typical village scene with lots of interesting and diverse characters all with their own agendas you will enjoy these books described by some as "Like famous five books for adults." Look out for an occasional appearance by Charlie Dimmock who kindly consented to being a character in the books as a friend of the village Vicar the Rev Rosemary Fitter. A further book in this series will be published later this year which would make an ideal present: 'The Melton-Uppbury Village Mysteries' (The Horse that Vanished at Christmas) County Pocket Guides to the Pre-Reformation Monastic Houses of Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire: By Dr Robert Tansey These three small Guide Books give detailed instructions as to how to get to the various sites, they also detail what if any facilities that can be found there, and information on the remaining structures that can be seen. A brief history of each site is also given. If you fancy a day out in the countryside these places give a real focus to your day, and give an insight into our Christian Heritage. Watch out for butterflies on many of these peaceful sites, and most of them are also a haven for many forms of wildlife. The author advises that you take a packed lunch. None of the sites requires too much walking. Ladybirds by Darren J Mann: published in 2002 but a worthwhile addition to your book collection for field reference. This is an introduction to these delightful little beetles with full colour images. Used copies are still obtainable via Amazon. Porritt's Lists: A re-print of George T Porritt's Yorkshire Butterfly and Moth Records first published in 1883/86 1904 1907 1922: Edited by Howard M Frost of Butterfly Conservation Yorkshire Branch. Copies can be purchased from Butterfly Conservation. All the above books can be purchased online via Amazon Books UK and other Booksellers: Note: Book Prices can vary so check out several booksellers before you purchase. How to begin the study of MOSSES AND LIVERWORTS by Dr June Chatfield (some photos by Christine Rieser) A handy introduction to these unusual living organisms. How to begin the study of Natural History by Dr June Chatfield A small interesting guide to the basic study of natural history. These two books can be purchased by directly contacting the British Naturalists Association: Telephone / BNA London / 08448921817 Write to / BM 8129 London WC1N 3XX Or look up Shop on website: www.bna-naturalists.org |