Anecdotal memoirs of a provincial journalist, tracing life in the Staffordshire Black Country, before, during and after the Second World War. A humorous sideways look at life makes it an easy, relaxing read. A section on RAF national service, is described in reviews as "hilarious". Every period -- in a very different world from that of today, throws up a rich vein of unforgettable incidents and personalities. His passion for travel was engendered by a beloved bicycle (cover illustration) that transported him around his districts as a young reporter and took him twice on holidays in Norway in the 1950s. It is featured on the front cover. A few copies are still available from the author at £8, post and packing free. Send cheques to: John Beck, 54,, Harley Road, Condover, Shrewsbury. SY5 7BB. E-mail: john@beck54.plus.com.