Castleford - Christine Wadsworth

Following the success of the first volume, Castleford, this second selection takes a further look at Castleford's past. Once again the wealth of material help by Wakefield Metropolitan District Libraries Information Services has been utilised, along with photographs from local newspapers, to compile this absorbing collection of over 200 images. Castleford grew from early rural beginnings to become a town of diverse industries. From glassworks and potteries to flour mills, boat-building and of course the collieries, the town and its people are seen at work. On a different note the National Coal Stoppage of 1921 is recalled and, more recently, the marches to demonstrate against the loss of employment. Many buildings and streets of the town may be unrecognisable today, not solely due to demolition and construction work but also as the result of changes in transportation and particularly the advent of the motor car with the consequent faster pace of life. Shopping habits have also changed considerable - no longer do we see 'tripe dressers' or 'rabbit dealers'! Out of hours the people of Castleford were occupied in a variety of activities: voluntary work as special constables, playing in the many different bands and sports teams and taking part in a variety of special events - not least of which was the 'Reight Neet Aht', an annual event for over twenty years. Castleford: The Second Selection provides more fascinating material about the town and its people and will be of interest to all those who know, or have links with, the area