This attractive and impressive large-format book has been compiled by two well-known Deal residents. The artist, Tom Burnham, is also a sportsman and fisherman, and Gregory Holyoake is an actor and teacher as well as a prolific local historian. They have selected 16 historic locations in Deal and Walmer, devoting a double page spread to each: a page of text interspersed with very attractive line drawings and facing it a full page watercolour.
The text by Gregory Holyoake is unfailingly interesting. He has unearthed lots of fascinating information; for instance, how many people know that whenever the Mayor of Deal boards a Royal Navy ship in The Downs he automatically assumes the rank of Admiral? How many of us living in Deal can identify the old Paragon Music Hall on the corner of Middle Street and Brewer Street?
And how many residents know that the Prince of Wales (later to become Edward VIII) visited a house in Archery Square at a time when he was 'crazy keen' on golf and wanted to be near the links at Sandwich Bay?
Every single page is filled with fascinating information, some familiar and some much less so, but all conveyed in an engaging and vivid way.
Gregory Holyoake is a natural communicator and Tom Burnham's watercolours are very attractive, detailed and accurate. He uses subtle colours with meticulous attention to detail, portraying the atmosphere and charm of the 16 unique and historic views.
This is a book that will delight local residents as well as visitors who will enjoy a unique and immensely attractive souvenir of Deal and Walmer.