Gary Morecambe writes: `David J. Hindle is an author and social historian with a particular interest in the genre of music hall and the history of the railways. In this, his latest book, he flags up parallels to be drawn between the origins of railways and music hall. This is an original concept, notwithstanding that long before the age of the automobile, it was the railways that conveyed audiences and performers to the music halls that evolved to become variety theatres. I look no further than my father's experiences to illustrate the point: `A second class train ride between Birmingham and Coventry in 1940 is not the most obvious starting point for the best loved double act in British comedy history. World War Two was well underway in 1940, but not for Morecambe and Wise. Fourteen year old Eric Bartholomew and his best friend Ernie Wiseman were travelling that day with my paternal grandmother, Eric's mum and mentor, Sadie Bartholomew. The star-struck teenagers had been performing in a touring youth theatre as solo acts. As usual the boys were over-excited after the show, and going through their Abbot and Costello, Laurel and Hardy impressions. Sadie, who was trying to sleep, made a suggestion that would change showbiz history for ever. `Why don't you two stop fooling around and put your minds to something else. Why not form a double act of your own?.' For over twenty years Morecambe and Wise learned their craft in Britain's variety theatres whilst travelling extensively throughout the country. When variety effectively died and many theatres went permanently dark in the 1950/60s, they switched to television spectaculars, which were enjoyed by millions throughout the world. The profusely illustrated narrative will offer something more than mere reading enjoyment. David's enthusiasm and expertise on music hall history is unbounded, and, in railway nomenclature, I give this publication the green light.'

Join David Hindle for a fascinating trip along one of the most scenic railway routes in the British Isles. This is a book for those with an apetite for discovery and those that enjoy the Lake District and its wildlife and scenery. As the tile suggests there is much to interest those with an interest in Railways too! Section One1) A concise history of the Furness Railway2) 'Hindle Wakes' to the growth of leisure and tourism3) A Journey along the Furness Railway from Carnforth to Whitehaven4) Photo gallery of steam and diesel locomotives on the Furness Railway5) Memories of the Furness Railway and travel with the 'ten bob ticket'Section Two Linear and circular great bird watching walks From Stations along the Cumbrian coast:'Silverdale change here for Leighton Moss RSPB Reserve' and Gaitbarrow 'Arnside with connections to Arnside Knott' 'Roose Station for Foulney and Roa Islands and railway heritage' 'Green Road alight here for a coastal walk to Millom' 'Millom Station for Hodbarrow RSPB Reserve"Silecroft for the ascent of Black Combe' 'Ravenglass change here for the Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway.' Walking and cycling from the Ratty 'St Bees change for St Bee's Head RSPB Reserve'Appendix 1 - Bus connections for more walks in northern LakelandOsprey walk at Bassenthwaite I walk the line with a 'single ticket Keswick to Threlkeld please' Keswick, Borrowdale and the circuit of Buttermere

This beautiful book celebrates the history and beauty of the amazing countryside around Preston. Seasoned historian and naturalist David Hindle takes the reader on gentle forays into specially selected parts of our county, all easily reached from the city itself. Along the way are opportunities to see an array of interesting sights, from picturesque villages and landscapes, to birds, mammals and other wildlife. So rich and interesting is the information about the heritage and natural history of the area that this book can even be read without leaving the comfort of your home!

The county of Lancashire has at its heart a real gem. Boasting fells, marshes, moorland, rivers, rich woodlands and ancient picturesque settlements, the Forest of Bowland provides a wonderful variety of habitats for an amazing array of birds, some of them rare. Little wonder, then, that local authors David Hindle and John Wilson developed such a passion for exploring the area, and decided to write a book. Birdwatching Walks in Bowland, now in its third edition, reveals the many treasures on offer that can be enjoyed by all. Readers can choose from over 30 lovely routes, all with straightforward directions, easy-to-follow maps and useful birding tips.