THE Redditch of yesteryear has been captured in a fascinating new book which features photographs and articles on many buildings and landmarks which are gone but not forgotten.

Redditch Remembered has been compiled in conjunction with the Advertiser from the archives of Alan Foxall, of the Redditch Pictorial History Society, and Ray Saunders, of R&S Antiques.

On Friday, there will be a book signing at the Advertiser's reception in Church Green East, where members of the public will be able to talk to the two men responsible for creating the book.

The event will start at noon but only a limited number of copies will be sold and signed on the day.

Until about 1900, although Redditch was internationally known for needle making and the associated fishing tackle industry, it was still a small country town.

Later, it spawned famous firms such as Herbert Terry & Sons spring makers and the Royal Enfield Cycle and Motor Cycle Company.

The town's current shape was prefigured when the Redditch Development Corporation was constituted on May 29, 1964.

Redditch New Town is nearing its 40th birthday and has itself now become part of the town's rich history.

Mr Foxall is a retired BT engineer from Headless Cross and in 1992 was a founder member of the Redditch Pictorial History Society.

Mr Saunders is a local businessman, historian and author of several books and articles published on Redditch and the surrounding areas.

It is hoped Redditch Remembered will help many people who reminisce about the old town to relive good memories and evoke talking points.

And for those new to the town, it will give them a taste of Redditch as it was when life was lived at a slower, more leisurely pace.

The hardback book is priced £14.99 and is available from the Advertiser offices in Church Green East.