Secret Peterborough

Peterborough in Cambridgeshire is well known for its magnificent medieval cathedral and today is one of the UK's fastest-growing cities. Its history stretches back many centuries, from its status as the Soke of Peterborough, originally considered part of Northamptonshire, through to its development in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries as the largest brick producer in the country. Much has been written about its historical past, but in this book local historians June and Vernon Bull explore the lesser-known episodes and characters in the city's history. They reveal how kings came to venerate St Oswald's arm, and how the city witnessed the last public execution and was the last place to have the Riot Act read. They look at the park made of bricks, the city's oldest business, the sexton who buried two queens, wartime visits by Hollywood legends and many more secret stories. With tales of remarkable characters, unusual events and tucked-away historical buildings, Secret Peterborough will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of this fascinating city.