Editorial

Let me start my first editorial by paying tribute to Michael Slater. I was asked two years ago if I would take on the job, so with his support and advice the transition has been gentle and trouble free. With his experience and knowledge of the area it will be hard act to follow! Though he has given up the role I am sure he will remain a regular contributor to the Journal.

2019 was a bumper year for the publication of local books. As a new venture I have included short reviews of three of them. Unfortunately, due to shortage of space, I have omitted pieces on Sarah Lister’s ‘Curious Tales From The Ancient Graveyard’ and David Johnson’s other two volumes (‘Time, Please!’ and ‘Southerscales: a deserted settlement’). I do not intend to write all future reviews and would welcome volunteers prepared to help. If you have a book published this year do get in touch as I am keen to promote books on the area.

2020 is the centenary of the death of Reginald Farrer. So it is particularly fitting that David Crutchley has written an article about him for this Journal. I hope this is the first of many celebrations of the life and work of this very local botanist and gardener, whose influence is worldwide. Farrer last featured in the Journal, in 1992, in an article by Amanda Hobson: it is available on our website and provides a good introduction to the man and his achievements.

This edition also includes a broad range of articles on our local heritage as well as reminiscences. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I have. Perhaps they will inspire you to write something for 2021.