John Sadden – författare

Almost all the images in this collection of intriguing photographs have never been published before. They cover over a century of Portsmouth's rich history, during which street scenes changed beyond recognition. Communities grew and then were fragmented by war, road schemes and redevelopment. Independent shops and businesses such as tailors and milliners went out of fashion and many pubs called time forever. The navy and army presence grew when clouds of war gathered, and shrank with the coming of peace. These evocative images record a wide range of the city's experiences. Buildings, streets, transport and wartime are all featured, as are, of course, the people of Portsmouth. From Victorian spectators at a sports day to punks on Southsea prom, the changing experience of everyday work, leisure and play will delight anyone wanting to discover the Portsmouth of yesteryear.

As Portsmouth approaches its centenary year as a city, this timely book celebrates the history of many of its wonderful traditions and locations and also attempts to capture the spirit of its proud people. Mudlarking, the Pompey Chimes, Charlotte Street market, Spice Island, Fratton Park and the Spinnaker are just some of the unique elements that have contributed to the colourful character and the enduring memories of Portsmuthians and their beloved historic city. The country’s original, premier naval port as well as a large garrison town, Portsmouth punches above its weight in terms of defence heritage attractions – but there is far more to be discovered. What shapes and makes the city, apart from its geography and natural resources, is its people. Over the years, through individual effort, entrepreneurship, innovation, bloody-mindedness and collective action, they have made their city a proud one, rich in history and achievement. Illustrated with over 100 images, this book offers a wealth of social history and will inspire the memories not only of local residents, but also of anyone who has ever known the city. And for current visitors who wish to dig deeper into an understanding of what our city is and means, Celebrating Portsmouth is a good starting point. All readers will discover a rich source of heritage, of surprises and of inspiration leading to a deeper appreciation of this proud island city.

Taking you through the year day by day, The Portsmouth Book of Days contains a quirky, eccentric, amusing or important event or fact from different periods of history, many of which had a major impact on, or reflect, the social and political history of England as a whole.Ideal for dipping into, this addictive little book will keep you entertained and informed. Featuring hundreds of snippets of information gleaned from the vaults of Portsmouth’s archives, it will delight residents and visitors alike.