Our Stories

In celebration of World Book Day, we are delighted to showcase a selection of books written and published by our talented homeowners. These works reflect the diverse experiences, creativity, and passions within our communities. Each book is a testament to the power of storytelling and the incredible knowledge and talent among us.

Rannulf 'Flambard': The True Story of His Eventful Career in Norman England

by Mr Gordon Sawyer, Audley Ellerslie

Published earlier this year, Rannulf ‘Flambard’ is the brainchild of Lady Sally Fielding, known to historians as Dr Sally Harvey, world renowned expert on the Norman era and especially Domesday, and was co authored by Sally and Gordon Sawyer both residents of Audley’s Ellerslie Village.

It is the true story of a remarkable man, born in Bayeux in 1060AD of humble origins, who, against all the odds, rose to the top of King William II ‘s administration in Norman England and in 1099 was appointed Prince Bishop of Durham. The epic story of this largely unknown man deserves to be told, and his many achievements recognised.

This is Gordon’s second book, having written an engaging history of ‘The ancient manor of Strensham’, published in 2020. 

Both books can be bought online or ordered direct from Gordon by emailing him on Gordon.sawyer@talk21.com, price £10 including postage in UK.

DEATH: Friend or Enemy? Views from the Other Side

by Ann Merrivale, Audley Ellerslie

This is my ninth and final book. I have for long been a writer on subjects that are partly esoteric and my 'Swan Song', published on 28 January, has received several 5 out of 5* reviews. It contains a great deal  of factual information about a number of very famous people in different fields.

Here is a recent review… Feb 21, 2025: Midwest Book Review 
"Of immense value to readers with an interest in parapsychology, reincarnation, and the inevitable phenomena of death, "DEATH: Friend or Enemy?: Views from the Other Side" by Ann Merivale is a simply fascinating, thoughtful and thought-provoking read from start to finish. Erudite, eloquent, well organized and thoroughly 'reader friendly' in presentation, "DEATH: Friend or Enemy?: Views from the Other Side" is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and college/university library Paranormal/Metaphysical collections."

Oldenland

by Mr Roger Clough, Audley St Elphin’s Park

Written over 25 years and innumerable journeys, Oldenland is a unique and moving companion to the experiences of old age and how to make it count.

Whilst there are a lot of books that cover the topic of 'how to have a good death', there is little that offers us advice on the time period that comes before that. 

How do we learn to actually be old? How do we spend our later years in a meaningful way that makes sense of who we've been and who we are now.

The book is due to be published in April 2025.

The Dancer - Claire and Alan Garnett

by Claire Garnett, Audley Binswood

This incredible autobiography written alongside her husband Alan Garnett, details the early struggles Claire underwent in a new country.

Born in Kermanshah, Iran in 1945. Her family then moved to Kingston, England when she was 15 and she did not possess a single word of English. But just three years later she had an established career as an eastern dancer on stage, television, and cinema.

This involved the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia personally sending his private jet for her so he could see her dance. She has also performed at the 21st birthday of the Belgian ambassador’s daughter, and for members of the Royal Family including Prince Charles.

With an eye for design, Claire opened her first jewellery and perfumery shop in London on her 20th birthday, and on her 30th birthday she opened her second shop, continuing to make and design jewellery for cruise ships over the years.

Percy Jackson's

by Mr Ken Cooke, Audley Clevedon

Ken Cooke chronicles the lifetime of a coeducational state grammar school which opened in 1939, a few weeks after the outbreak of World War II, and closed with its conversion to a comprehensive in 1968. Drawing on abundant recollections and anecdotes from former pupils - many of whom, like the author, were children of mining families - this informal history tells as much about happenings outside the classroom as within. Faithful to the facts, yet true to the sentiments, this history invites the reader to consider whether school days really are the best days of your life.

It is now out of print but a copy is available at Audley Clevedon Library and used copies can be found online.

Masters and Brethren: 

the 450 year history of the Lord Leycester Hospital Warwick told through the stories of its people

by Marrianne Pitts, Audley Binswood

Co written with Angela Nicholls and Georgia Wilkes this book was published in 2021 to commemorate the 450th anniversary of the founding of the Lord Leycester Hospital.

The Lord Leycester is one of Europe’s most important medieval buildings and has been a home to military veterans for over 450 years. The Lord Leycester has witnessed the vicissitudes of the passing centuries, and over all that time the Brethren and Masters have been at its heart. The stories of those that have inhabited the Hospital provide an important record of the way of life since its foundation in 1571. and it is hoped that the Masters and Brethren of the future will continue to preserve the tradition of service, hospitality and community, adding further chapters to the stories that this book so compellingly records. 

Copies can be bought direct from Marrianne at Binswood for £7 or purchased online.

Do explore these wonderful reads and celebrate the literary achievements of our owners.

If you have a book recommendation or have published your own work, we would love to hear from you. Let’s continue to share a joy of reading and keep inspiring one another!