Swansea History You Can See

'Swansea - History You Can See' by Richard Porch is a revelation of a book and is exactly the kind of publication that Swansea has been crying out for.

Essentially an A-Z of people, buildings, industries and events that have helped shaped the city, the 128 pages contained within its covers contain aroundf100 archive images and field a variety of subjects including Argyle Church, Baron Spolasco, City Bollards, Japanese Knotweed - including some recipes on how to utilise this troublesome plant in the kitchen, Mumbles Lifeboat and Swansea's Quaker House. A few Gower buildings make it into the book also, with a fine article on both Overton House, Port Eynon and Whiteford Lighthouse.

There is a real love for the subject of local history embroidered into this book. Many historic artefacts, for instance, such as the city's copper slag blocks - which could so easily be ignored by the passer-by, are explored in as much depth and enthusiasm as more traditional subjects of historical archaeology.

A must purchase, especially for those who often wonder upon the origin of those fading reminders of the past which surround so many walks around the City of Swansea.