Local historian reveals fascinating facts from our past


'The Ealing Book' to be launched on 28th November

Local historian launches unique new book on Ealing

Ealing Council's Central Library will host the launch of a new book on the history of Ealing by local historian Dr Peter Hounsell.

Peter Hounsell, who has worked for the council's Library and Information Service for more than thirty years, has written 'The Ealing Book' which is the first local history directory for the W5 and W13 postcode areas.

The book is published by Historical Publications Ltd and distributed by Phillimore & Co. Ltd.

Local history buffs, anyone studying the area's past or people simply looking for an entertaining evening out are invited to attend the launch on Monday 28 November. It will be held at Ealing Central Library between 7pm and 9pm.

Tickets are £4 each and include refreshments. As numbers are limited, people should book in advance by visiting the Enquiries Desk at the library.

Set out in alphabetical order, 'The Ealing Book' allows the reader to dip in and discover hundreds of fascinating facts from this part of London's past.

For example, did you know:
- that Ealing once boasted a seven-times Wimbledon champion?
- that Ealing provided the inspiration for Agatha Christie's 'Miss Marple'?
- that Margot Fonteyn's father was also a resident, realising his boyhood dreams of driving a train - during the General Strike?
- and that part of Ealing's past are Freddie Mercury and the famous Murder in the Red Barn?

With many illustrations, it's an immensely readable book with all round appeal whether you have a casual curiosity in your neighbourhood's history or a particular interest in a specific topic.

Peter Hounsell will introduce his new book and there will be opportunities to ask him questions, as well as buy signed copies of the book at a special discounted price (usual retail price £14.50, selling for £12.50 at this event).

His previous book 'Ealing and Hanwell Past' was published in 1991 and told the story of these two villages, their gradual development and then fast transformation following the arrival of the railways.

Ealing Central Library is located at 103 Ealing Broadway Centre W5 5JY.

December 17, 2015