Newcastle with its layer upon layer of history is one of Britain’s most fascinating cities.
It has a proud heritage dating back to Roman times - when it was known as Pons Aelius.
Later, the Vikings, Anglo-Saxons and Normans would leave their own distinct footprints.
The city grew as an important centre for the wool trade in the 14th century, and later became a major coal mining centre - but it was the River Tyne that brought real wealth and prestige with the development of shipbuilding, ship repair work and heavy industry.
The coming of the railways in Victorian times further aided the rapid growth of Newcastle.
Perhaps surprisingly, it only became a city as relatively recently as 1882.
Today Newcastle is perhaps best known for its famous football club and its fabulous bridges.
A new book, A-Z of Newcastle: Places, People, History, does what it says on the tin.
Written by local historian and city guide Ken Hutchinson, it provides an accessible and highly entertaining take on the city’s town’s long and colourful story.
From the ‘A’ of All Saint’s Church to the ‘Z’ of the Bigg Market’s 1960s Winter Zoo, the book is perfect for dipping in and out of.
Some of the 100 images or so images - new and old - are published here, from the ‘Q’ of the Quayside, to the ‘C’ of Clayton Street, to the ‘P’ of Billy Purvis, a popular 19th century Newcastle comic actor who slipped from living memory long ago.
Ken Hutchinson, who has written a number of titles on the history of Newcastle, said: “When asked to write this book the main challenge was to try to fit everything into the space available as Newcastle has a vast number of important buildings, streets and landmarks.
“Many sculptures, and plaques record links with numerous important people over time including kings, queens, inventors, engineers, architects, sporting heroes, entertainers, TV stars, rock stars and even a vampire rabbit.
“A lot of excellent books on Newcastle have been published over the years and this one will hopefully encourage readers to delve deeper into the subject.”
A-Z of Newcastle: Places, People, History by Ken Hutchinson is on sale now. Amberley Publishing. £14.99.
