Secret Tewkesbury

From its Saxon beginnings to the severe floods of 2007, Tewkesbury is one of Britains most remarkable towns. It is well known for its Norman abbey of cathedral-like proportions and the great battle which proved to be one of the most decisive in the Wars of the Roses, but its history contains much more that has often been overlooked. In this book local author David Elder delves deep into Tewkesburys lost, forgotten and hidden histories, recounting some remarkable stories. Learn, for example, about some of the towns minor celebrities and local characters from the seaman who carried Admiral Nelsons wounded body to the cockpit of HMS Victory, to the miserly tanner who amassed a great fortune for no higher purpose than the sordid desire of seeing it uselessly accumulate. The author unearths fascinating facts, celebrating the towns tradition of nonconformity which led to more than one riot, and provides fascinating insights into how the towns inhabitants were once comically portrayed as having sharp features because it was assumed that they lived on the towns famous hot, pungent mustard! With tales of remarkable characters, unusual events and tucked-away or disappeared historical buildings and locations, Secret Tewkesbury will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of this town in Gloucestershire.