Published by the Brixham Museum in 2008, 70 pages. Paperback - c.18.5cm by 23cm (N8151)
From the foreword: [This book] gives a vivid snapshot of Brixham during the First World War and introduces some fascinating characters, whose vision and hard work helped shape the town... Colonel Charles Bum, the local MP with an illustrious military career, who became a King's Messenger during the War, carrying important despatches across enemy lines and crossing the Channel 378 times, escaping enemy torpedoes and bombing in the process, but managing at the same time to represent Brixham in Parliament... The most pressing concerns in 1914 were the plight of the fishing industry, church and social activities, and District Council elections. Little has changed: the spirit of Brixham; the tenacity of the fishermen; the courage and leadership of those called to public service are still self-evident. The book is about a small town's journey during a pivotal moment in history; it reveals a different era, when there was a local aristocracy, who were admired and led by example. Please read and enjoy. Learn how the fishing fleet survived, despite enlistment - which took away fishermen and allied trades, including those who mended boats and made them - and enemy submarines lurking off the coast; read the individual stories of loss and marvel at the constant optimism and hospitality offered to wounded soldiers.
The condition of the book is generally very good. The covers are clean and bright, the spine is intact, and all pages are clean, tidy, unblemished and tightly bound.