Richard M. Jones, the historian based in Bridlington, specialises in the local history of Yorkshire, focusing particularly on coastal areas.
His expertise encompasses maritime and military topics, including shipwrecks, disasters, and the events of the First and Second World Wars, as well as railways.
In addition to being the history editor for the Bridlington Echo, Richard has authored numerous books on these subjects and has made appearances on various radio and television programs, as well as podcasts and blogs.
His latest publication, The A-Z of Scarborough: Places, People, History, showcases the rich heritage of Scarborough, a picturesque seaside town in North Yorkshire that developed around its medieval castle perched on a cliff.
It is published hot in the heels of his recent Bridlington A-Z book which has proved a resounding success.
Emerging as a spa town in the seventeenth century, Scarborough became one of the earliest coastal resorts in the nation.
With the advent of railways in the Victorian era, the town attracted an influx of visitors, maintaining its appeal as a haven for high society well into the twentieth century, with many guests residing at the renowned Grand Hotel. Additionally, Scarborough has been a significant hub for the fishing industry.
The A-Z of Scarborough delves into the town’s history, exploring its streets, buildings, businesses, and the people who have shaped its narrative. Beyond well-known historical figures, it also uncovers intriguing characters, hidden gems, and lesser-known events. Readers will encounter captivating stories about the grand castle on the cliffs, the resting place of Anne Brontë, the tramway to the beach, and notable figures such as Harland of Harland & Wolff shipbuilders and James Moody, a Titanic officer. The book also highlights the iconic Grand Hotel and the Holbeck Hall Hotel, which fell victim to coastal erosion thirty years ago, along with the German bombardment of 1914, and many other fascinating aspects of Scarborough’s past. Richly illustrated with photography, this book is sure to captivate anyone interested in the history of this charming Yorkshire coastal town.
Release Date: June 15, 2025
Price: £15.99
ISBN: 9781398125698
Illustrations: 100 images.
