Search results for ""Quiller Publishing Ltd""

A Drink at the Bar: A memoir of crime, justice and overcoming personal demons is the witty, opinionated and revealing memoirs of Judge Graham Boal QC, a criminal barrister for thirty years before serving as a judge for nine years until his retirement as a Permanent Judge at London’s Central Criminal Court, the Old Bailey, in 2005. Boal's career highlights included his being the legendary George Carman's junior in the Liberal leader Jeremy Thorpe's trial for conspiracy to murder in 1979, leading for the Crown at the Appeal of the Birmingham Six in 1991 and becoming First Senior Treasury Counsel. His memories of key cases in his career are fascinating but his day-to-day experiences, and the underlying legal issues and happenstance, are every bit as revealing and interesting. Boal has been described as ‘clubbable’, a man who enjoys cricket, golf and life in a Norfolk village, but as his brilliant career progressed he found himself increasingly dependent on the demon alcohol. He went into treatment for alcoholism and depression in 1993, and has been a recovering alcoholic ever since, including his years as a judge at the Old Bailey, the court at which most of the most serious criminal cases in the country are tried. This intriguing memoir reveals the many inside stories of classic criminal cases and the author is unstinting in his analysis of his professional achievements and personal struggles. This will be an essential read for all those interested in legal and political issues and the toll that the pressures of high office can put on one’s personal life and wellbeing. The author is now a trustee and board member of WDP, a leading addiction charity.

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In this much-anticipated autobiography, Raymond Gubbay brings to life his extraordinary fifty-year career as one of the most experienced and well-connected impresarios in British music and entertainment. With a provenance rich in history and talent, he retraces the musical legacy of his family, growing up in a liberal Jewish household in 1950s post-war London with the challenges he faced while embarking on his musical journey after a few failed attempts at corporate conformity. Beginning his career at the Royal Albert Hall, his introduction to the entertainment industry commenced under the guidance of the late Victor Hochhauser – Britain’s foremost promoter of Russian ballet and classical music. Passionate and enigmatic, this memoir delves right into the heart of 1960s performing arts, with Gubbay absorbingly recounting both the stress and excitement that came with marshalling three coach loads of Russian performers around the country at a time of conflicting traditions, theatrical decline, amid Soviet tensions – and this was only the beginning… Setting up on his own, he started with a handful of performers touring to modest venues around the country, building a brand and a style which seemed very much in tune with the times. Later, working alongside some of the most prestigious classical and popular artists of our time – from Yehudi Menuhin, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Luciano Pavarotti and the English National Ballet to Ray Charles, Miles Davis and Andrew Lloyd-Webber – Gubbay has witnessed and played a hand in promoting and producing some of the most iconic performances of opera, ballet and classical music ever staged in some of the largest music venues in Britain, the Royal Festival Hall, Symphony Hall Birmingham – and not least of all the Royal Albert Hall. He was in at the start of the Barbican in the City of London and provides a keen insight into the early years there. Lowering the Tone is rich with stories of showbusiness and the behind-the scenes business of the great musical venues, with appearances from a wealth of household and international names. This is the story of achievement, imagination and a desire to bring happiness and entertainment to generations of music lovers.

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The old adage ‘dogs are a man’s best friend’ can be tested when that sweet-but-naughty mutt misbehaves behind the owner’s back. This imaginative and hilarious collection of colourful, humorous and meticulously-illustrated cartoons captures with great affection both the joys and frustrations of caring for these lifelong companions. The perfect gift for dog lovers worldwide, it pays homage to the finest attributes and characteristics of our most-beloved breeds, while also serving as a reminder of past misdemeanours and acting as a warning of possible future calamities!

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As Roger Morgan-Grenville prepares for a new season with the White Hunter Cricket Club, he is starting to feel his age, so he embarks on a secret plan of coaching, yoga and psychology to improve his game. Will he emerge as a sporting demigod, or will his teammates even notice the difference. This is the humorous and heartwarming story of that cricket season, as the White Hunters go from disaster to triumph. It is a tale of competitiveness, suspense, excellence, hospitality and incompetence, such as the missing fielder found asleep in the woods and the two opening bowlers whose MG Roadster breaks down on the way to the game. From the Castle Ground at Arundel to a field next to a nudist camp in France, players such as the Tree Hugger, the Gun Runner, and their wicket-keeper, the Human Sieve, share the dream that this might be their day. Above all, it is the uplifting story of friendship among a team of not-very-good players who find enough moments of near brilliance to remind them why they turn up for more, game after game, season after season.

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Falconry is an ancient and noble art, still practiced today by falconers throughout the world. While, these days, falconry birds are mostly bred in captivity, they are still wild, independent animals and owning and training them requires the right commitment, knowledge and skills. Falconry Basics is designed to provide those new to falconry with the essential information they need, including the basics of types of birds and their individual characteristics; acquiring the proper equipment; how best to care for and maintain healthy birds, and all aspects of training, flying and hunting. Accompanied by diagrams and line drawings throughout, and with additional material, such as a glossary of falconry terms, this newly revised and updated edition offers a comprehensive, practical guide for a whole new generation of falconers.

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A comprehensive guide for the amateur gamekeeper, Rearing Game Birds and Gamekeeping provides practical step-by-step advice on how to raise pheasants and red-leg partridges, with a particular emphasis on the health and welfare of the birds. Beth Williams provides an insight into each species and covers a range of topics from choosing breeding stock and incubating eggs to rearing chicks and nurturing game. This hands-on guide draws on a wide range of accepted best practices, including experiences of overseas successes, and advises on rearing game in a low-cost and effective manner, without compromising on quality.

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Entertaining, informative, and packed with unusual facts. Illustrated in color throughout.

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At last, the most useful gift and piece of kit for every fishing enthusiast. This thoroughly useful pocket sized hardcover record book is designed to fit in any fishing jacket, and is invaluable to record the water and weather conditions, the location, the fly, and not least of all, the catch and its weight. With a space for notes and an area for remarks, this book will be used again and again. Price includes VAT.

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New updated edition of the bestselling My Special Pony Record Book is a colourful diary-type notebook in which children can keep details about their pony and what makes them so special. There are fun-filled questions with boxes to tick and pages on which to stick photographs and/or keepsakes - or even to draw something themselves.

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In 1949, the 10th Duke of Beaufort started Badminton Horse Trials with the idea of better preparing British riders for the Olympic Games after a disastrous showing on home ground the year before. His legacy is the world's oldest and most prestigious horse trials, which has captured the imagination of riders worldwide and in 2024 celebrates its seventy-fifth anniversary.Badminton is still an Olympic proving ground as well as a captivating place where dreams can be made or shattered, and the one all riders want to win. The centrepiece remains the cross-country course, a spectacle that draws thousands of spectators and is an imposing challenge for riders, no matter how experienced they are, in an egalitarian sport in which men and women compete on equal terms and the amateur can take on the Olympic gold medallist.This superbly illustrated book celebrates those riders and their horses, from Sheila Willcox's hattrick in the 1950s to New Zealander Mark Todd who came out of retirement to win

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Breaking Clays is a comprehensive and practical book that presents in-depth advice and instruction for shooters of all disciplines. Beginning with the basics and advancing to proven tournament techniques, the book is packed with invaluable tips on how to break more clays in your chosen game. Chris Batha has worked with some of the top competitors and shooting coaches in the world today. While every top shot has his own approach to shooting and teaching, Chris recognises that what works for one person will not necessarily work for another. This clear and concise book offers a distillation of the best tips and techniques that really work to improve your scores and give you the knowledge to develop to your full shooting potential.

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In the Garden with the Totterings is a fabulous collection of Annie Tempest’s ‘Tottering-by-Gently’ cartoons around the theme of gardening, which encompasses inter-generational tensions, the differing perspectives of men and women and more. Tottering-by-Gently is a village in the fictional county of North Pimmshire, where Lord and Lady Tottering reside in the fading grandeur of their ancestral home, Tottering Hall. Annie Tempest’s cartoons are based on Lord and Lady Tottering (Dicky and Daffy) and their extended family. Her now international following proves that she touches a note of universal truth in her exquisitely detailed and beautifully executed cartoons as she gently laughs with us at the stuff of life.

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A fun colouring and activity book guaranteed to keep pony mad children entertained, including helpful and interesting tips, perfect for those taking part in the British Horse Society's Pony Stars programme, or just those who love horses and to draw. Pony Stars is the BHS's Junior Challenge Awards scheme helping children to discover, develop and nurture their love for ponies and the outdoors. With over 100 topics for children to explore, Pony Stars will ignite a passion for ponies, build knowledge and cement friendships that will last a lifetime.

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BHS Riding Out has been written primarily for people who work, or are thinking of working, in roles that include leading or escorting rides from licensed riding schools, trekking centres, horse hotels and similar establishments. It is recommended reading for those working towards a British Horse Society qualification of Stage 2 or Stage 3 Ride Leader.In addition to providing information to those whose professional role includes taking out rides, this book will be of value to those being escorted, whether newcomers to riding or those of greater experience. It contains plenty of practical advice that will be of use to private horse owners who habitually ride out by themselves, or in the company of small groups of friends.

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Riding skills guru Mary Wanless looks at a series of common rider faults or problems and, through words and photos, explains how to correct them. Each fault or problem is demonstrated by a different rider - some working at basic level, others advanced. Mary gives each rider a lesson, taking them through the (often subtle) changes they have to make, and recording their progress with specially taken photographs. Readers can witness the changes taking place and understand through Mary's gifted teaching, how to make the necessary shift to improve their own riding skills.The 'before' and 'after' pictures show not only the improvements in the rider's position and effectiveness but also in their horse's way of going, for the two are interconnected. Among the topics for in-depth discussion are rider position, muscle tone and stabilisation; how our minds and bodies learn new techniques or change old habits; rider asymmetry; mental attitudes; lateral work; advanced work; and faults such as tipping forward, leaning back, hollowing the back, rounding the back, and pulling on the inside rein.

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Canadian born Suzan St Maur has lived in the UK since childhood. After an early career start in journalism on a local newspaper, she transferred her allegiances to advertising and later became a highly successful scriptwriter in business television and live events. Today she writes prolifically across most media for a wide variety of business communication purposes. She has also written several published books on consumer and business topics.

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Once described by Joanna Lumley as “the man with no fear”, Tristan Voorspuy spent his life living up to the legend. From his epic Cairo to Cape Town motorbike ride, to extraordinary wildlife encounters and many death-defying light aircraft near misses, Life on the Edge tells the extraordinary story of an adventurer and horseman determined to live life to the full. This was a life defined by a love of Africa, often shared with appreciative clients on Offbeat riding safaris, famous for lifechanging adventures and innumerable close shaves with dangerous big game. But Life on the Edge is also the story of compassion, conservation and, ultimately, tragedy. In the last two decades of his life, Voorspuy helped transform the overgrazed and drought-blighted Sosian Ranch in Northern Kenya into a celebrated game reserve, acclaimed tourist destination and successful cattle ranch. True to form, it was while defending this property that an unarmed Tristan was gunned down and killed, a murder that sent shockwaves around the world.

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Training the Working Labrador looks at all aspects of the care, management and training of the modern working Labrador. It discusses many of the issues affecting today’s dog owners in a society which may not always seem to be providing enough time to own and train working gundogs. The book provides advice and guidance on a host of practical feeding, management and training matters based on the author’s lifelong experience and chapters are included on nutrition and care – especially for those who may be away from home for part of the day. The very latest Labrador health tests are covered in detail and their relevance to their owners. With its wealth of instructional photographs and detailed training guidelines, Training the Working Labrador is essential reading for the first time owner/trainer of a Labrador. It is equally useful as an important update on Labrador issues for the experienced owner.

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For nearly thirty years Annie Tempest has entertained ‘Country Life’ magazine readers with her weekly strip cartoon, Tottering-by-Gently, reaching much greater audiences worldwide through the associated merchandise, including book compilations such as this new volume on the subject of drink. A whole generation has grown up following the gentle everyday observations of this very British extended family with their dogs, daily struggles and difficulties in adapting to the fast-paced, technological and now woke world. Cheers to all! Onwards and upwards without spilling a drop. Snifters at Tottering Hall is the eagerly awaited, post-lockdown offering from Lord and Lady Tottering on the subject of liquid refreshment. It is well-timed to put a smile back on our faces after a notably unamusing confinement. Annie Tempest’s superb cartoons, depicting this delightfully eccentric couple, remind us that life must be celebrated and taken with a pinch of salt and a stiff upper lip.

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Land of Milk and Honey is the long-awaited sequel to Red Rag to a Bull. Author Jamie Blackett finds himself in danger of losing the family estate as his beef business encounters difficulties and the spectre of Brexit bears down on the farming community. Meanwhile he feels under threat from extreme environmentalists attacking the very concept of livestock farming and by resurgent Scottish nationalism threatening the break-up of the United Kingdom. The book is the honest and forthright account of how he copes with the crisis by following the example of New Zealand farmers in similar circumstances and successfully embracing the new creed of regenerative agriculture and switching the farm into pasture-based dairying. Through Jamie’s struggles the reader comes to understand the crossroads facing the British countryside as it attempts to adapt to free trade after eighty years of agricultural subsidies. We are also guided through the complexities and contradictions in the quest to reach Net Zero carbon and reverse biodiversity loss as he explores the current craze for re-wilding the land and puts some of its ideas into practice for the benefit of wildlife on the estate. Along the way Jamie becomes an outspoken newspaper columnist and establishes an unlikely political alliance with the maverick socialist George Galloway in an attempt to break the stalemate in Scottish politics and defeat Nicola Sturgeon’s SNP in the Holyrood election. The book contains humour, vivid passages of nature writing and numerous polemical digressions on a wide range of countryside issues.

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Game Shooting for sporting purposes has taken place in England since the first half of the sixteenth century. David Jones has written a fascinating and comprehensive book covering the history of the sport from its inception to the present day. He examines changes in the typical shooting day, based on surviving diaries, newspaper articles and other historical documents. He charts the development of shooting in England, Wales and Scotland, across Europe and worldwide, including the planning and organisation required to support the growing popularity of the sport. Game Shooting contains a large selection of historic illustrations, photographs, articles and documents, providing an accurate record and unique insight into the lives of those involved. A fascinating book suitable for anyone with an interest in the sport.

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This is the story of Giles Darby, a former British banker who was extradited and jailed on account of his entanglement in a $7m wire-fraud case. In 2001, Giles and his co-defendants — branded the ‘NatWest Three’ — became the subject of extensive media coverage when the US government demanded their extradition in regards to the financial collapse of energy giant Enron, noted as one of the biggest bankruptcy filings in history. They found themselves the centre of national debate which sought to question why three British citizens accused of defrauding a British bank should be tried in America — a question that found itself in the hands of Prime Minister at the time, Tony Blair. However, after 10 gruelling years of appeal, they each pled guilty to one count of wire fraud, facing up to 37 months in a US prison. Focusing on the emotional aftermath of extradition and his life in prison, Inside Allenwood is an eye-opening appraisal of the American justice system, and one man’s profound story of how he managed to keep his health and sanity intact during the drudgery of lockdown, the dangers of routine violence and the agony of being separated from his young family in UK.

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When the music impresario Bryan Morrison died aged 66 in 2008, after two years in a coma following a polo accident, he left behind his unpublished memoir. As a music publisher, manager and agent, Morrison had represented the Pretty Things, Pink Floyd, T. Rex, The Jam, Wham! and many others. He was also the founder and owner of the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club.In this candid and outspoken book, Morrison reveals the true stories behind why Syd Barrett of Pink Floyd once bit his finger to the bone, the Pretty Things were banned for life from New Zealand, and he became involved with the Kray Twins. He also tells how The Jam kissed goodbye to success in the USA, he received death threats when Robin Gibb left the Bee Gees, and signing a publishing deal with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley as Wham! Spanning the golden age of British rock ’n’ roll from the 60s to the 80s, this is the extraordinary story of a cigar-chomping, East End entrepreneur, with a passion for art and design, fashion, music and polo.

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Alexander Lebedev is best known as the Russian businessman and public figure who bought the Evening Standard and The Independent newspapers in the UK. A former KGB intelligence officer in the USSR’s London Embassy, his book covers the years from his birth in 1959 to 2016. Written in a wry and humorous manner, the book is mainly a memoir of Lebedev's own hair-raising experiences as someone who aspires to show that an 'honest banker' is not an oxymoron. There is the thread of a whodunit as his attempts at constructive and charitable business enterprises are systematically torpedoed by a person or persons unknown. He describes the dirty tricks used against him and the attempt to assassinate him and details how the Russian and international political and business elite live. Lebedev openly tells of his relations with leading politicians, businessmen and cultural figures in Russia and abroad, and investigates corruption scandals, dodgy multi-billion-dollar deals and contract killings. A comical episode on how he faced five years of imprisonment for a minor fracas during a television talk show, and how world show business stars (Elton John, Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, John Malkovich, Ian McKellen, Stephen Fry) rallied to his defence. He describes in detail how and why he became involved with two prominent UK newspapers. Lebedev reveals his access to inside sources of information, with policemen and secret policemen slipping him memoirs and transcripts of episodes which would otherwise have remained unknown. It is ultimately a portrait of a political system which ensures that genuine attempts to improve the fortunes of his country and its citizens are built on sand.

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Based on a series of articles published in The World of Fine Wine, Bursting Bubbles is a ground-breaking new book that offers the reader an alternate history of Champagne and its greatest growers. Often controversial, it is a no-holds barred look at the world's most famous wine region and the sparkling wine that it produces. It has the potential to change the way wine lovers think about Champagne. In his foreword, multi award winning author Andrew Jefford has called Bursting Bubbles, 'The most engaging book about leading Champagne growers I've read, full of insight and detail' and '...the most refreshing, pretension-pricking, myth-busting and amusingly unfrothy book on the subject I've read.'

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With wide appeal to anyone involved in shooting, this fascinating, fun and informative book covers the reality and myths connected to shooting and the shooting day. Brilliantly illustrated throughout by famed cartoonist Bryn Parry, this book is perfect for all country sports enthusiasts and reveals the superstitions of game Shots, extraordinary experiences in the field and exposes both the fallacies and truths behind many commonly-held beliefs. What is a Hunter's Moon? How to beat the midges. The truth about the McNab and haunted shooting lodges, extraordinary superstitions and much more to amuse, delight and intrigue, all accompanied by Bryn's beautifully crafted cartoons.

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How To Look Cool Whilst Learning Polo takes a very modern approach to the traditional game of polo. The author, SteveThompson, is a veteran polo instructor and professional player with over twenty years of teaching experience across the globe and this book is a culmination of his teaching and playing experience over two decades in the sport. This book, followed correctly, will save one a lot of pain, frustration and cash by teaching an aspiring player how to function correctly from the very start. More than just a technical 'how to' guide, it provides everything one needs to know to go from zero to hero on the polo field, and more importantly - make sure one looks cool whilst doing it!

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A unique collection of fishing stories from the past 200 years that prove that when it comes to fishing, things can and often do go hilariously wrong. From stories of record breakers that got away to boats that sank, rods that broke and pike and salmon that ran amoke, Great Angling Disasters is the ultimate chronicle of those less than triumphant days on the riverbank. For everyone interested in fishing with rod and line whether they are game, coarse or sea fishermen.

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'Have I remembered everything?' 'What shall I wear?' 'Who am I likely to be shooting alongside?' 'Will the dog behave?' 'Will the birds be there?' These are all questions that might keep the Gun, the picker-up, the keeper and anyone else connected with a day's game shooting awake the night before a much anticipated day. 'Why did I say that?' 'Why did I do that?' 'Why did my dog do that?' 'Why did I think about the weather?' 'What was I thinking?' These are all questions one might ask oneself the evening after! Fortunately, you are not alone in your nightmares! If you've ever encountered a particular incident or experience on the shooting field, whether it be a formal day, or as a rough shoot with a couple of friends, it's a fairly safe bet that others will have it too. The Imperfect Shot illustrates in words and cartoons, light-hearted errors and ill-judgment of those who have experienced minor faux pas and misdemeanours on the shooting field — and also glorifies those who have got the better of a particular situation! There are, among its pages, real pearls of wisdom; there is, though, much advice written somewhat 'tongue-in-cheek'. All immediately bring a mental picture to mind. A mental picture is not, however, required. The illustrations, brought to life by renowned country and field sports artist, Oliver Preston — himself a shooting man of no ill-repute — has negated the need for the cry which otherwise might go out: 'Oh, if only I had a camera!' As if the situation was not clear enough, Oliver adds more. Some tales might, of course be apocryphal — and I'll leave it for the reader to decide which they might be!

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An essential reference guide to port, this book is recommended reading for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and other certification programmes. It describes the unique features of the Douro Valley, the cycle of work in the vineyards, historical production techniques and more recent innovations, and the role of the wine lodges where port matures before being shipped to its worldwide markets. Ben Howkins offers a concise history of port and the port trade as they have developed over the last 300 years. He covers important changes in recent ownership of the major shippers and highlights the people driving change in the industry while protecting port's heritage.

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Training the Working Spaniel makes it simple for anyone to train their working springer or cocker spaniel, whether beginner or more experienced owner. This book starts from early obedience training all the way to competing in working tests and field trials. Those with more experience will appreciate the detailed advice on advanced work in the field, rough shooting, picking-up, and training as a peg dog. While first-timers will find plenty of help on how to keep a working dog in a family home, as well as introducing their spaniel to a variety of shooting situations. Reflecting the huge popularity of the cockers, the author gives plenty of advice aimed specifically at cockers as well as springers. There is also information on the lesser-known spaniel breeds including Irish Water spaniels, Clumbers, Field spaniels, Sussex spaniels, Welsh springers and Brittany Spaniels With unique access to the most successful spaniel trainers, the author brings exclusive tips from the top that can be used by any beginner. The book contains information on modern training in urban environments as well as insights into elite spaniel work and gives guidance on breeding your own spaniels.

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This is the 45th Anniversary Edition of The Decline of an English Village. When The Decline of an English Village was first published in 1974, its appearance was greeted with immediate critical acclaim. As a young writer, born into declining village life, Robin Page’s message simultaneously struck a chord and sounded a warning. Now, after forty-five years, it reappears with a new and updated introduction, in which political activist Robin Page exposes greed, political ineptitude, and social and environmental indifference as the driving forces behind the deterioration of village life and the communities around it. Robin Page transports readers back to a time when villages were founded on the value of community, and when people still worked the land in the traditional sense. He reflects and ruminates on his own experiences of rural life, raising sensitive topics, such as the intensification of farming, over-population, and environmental degradation in some of England’s most beloved places. Robin shares his concern for the alarming loss of wildlife in England, and offers his own perspective on what he perceives to be the most pressing issues. His passion for English tradition, reflected through his involvement with the Countryside Restoration Trust, radiates from within the pages of this book, along with his enthusiasm for preserving the countryside and its wildlife. Throughout his life, Robin has observed dramatic changes in the way people live their lives. It’s in this book that he reiterates the tragedy behind a countryside increasingly misused and abused in the name of urbanisation and industrialisation.

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New paperback edition. This is the bestselling autobiography of Ted Dexter — fondly known as Lord Ted — the ferociously powerful and debonair former England international cricketer who captained England in 1961-2, stood as England’s chairman of selectors from 1989-1993 and then became President of the MCC in 2001. He is undeniably one of England’s most prolific cricketers but, as he’s eager to stress in the introduction of his book, he also lived a rich, lively and fulfilling life outside of his sporting career, with tales galore of his various escapades along the French Riviera, his experience of running a sports PR company, flying planes (just “because he could”), playing championship golf, racing greyhounds and so much more. A riveting read not only for those who recall his sporting legacy, but for anyone who resonates with Ted’s fervent enthusiasm for both cricket and life. All book royalties will be donated to the MCC Foundation — Transforming Lives Through Cricket. Nominated for The Cricket Society and MCC 'Cricket Book of the Year' award.

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Aimed at the first-time pony owner, this book provides sound and practical advice on all aspects of finding, buying and caring for a pony. Beautifully illustrated throughout, Pony Care: A Complete Guide to Buying and Caring for Your First Pony is an essential step-by-step guide for the non-horsey parent. Topics include: Points to consider before buying, how to find and try the right pony and when to buy Where to keep the pony, transport Daily routine, feeding, health and exercise Shoeing, tack and equipment, clipping and turnout Selling the pony. Written in an accessible and light-hearted style, readers will benefit from Alison’s wealth of experience and gain a true insight into what is involved in owning a pony.

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Volume 2 in our foundation series aims to develop the skills for aspiring equestrians, building on improving efficiency, depth of knowledge and understanding of equine care and management. Volume 2 introduces lungeing a horse for exercise, with practical riding skills progressing to basic show jumping. This title develops our Complete Horsemanship foundation series to include the initial principles for teaching and coaching in the industry. A great addition to any aspiring equestrian, this book also provides the recommended reading for the British Horse Society Stage 2 qualification in horse care, riding and teaching.

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Pilates is an invigorating and proven body conditioning method which helps to strengthen the core muscles used in riding, whilst simultaneously restoring the body's balance. In light of this Pilates for Equestrians is packed with colourful, easy to follow photographs, listing common rider injuries and niggles, with a list of core strengthening exercises to help maintain a more flexible, leaner, fitter body.

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Eventing Explained is a unique, all round view of how to start eventing for riders of all ages wanting to compete in their first affiliated Horse Trials. Packed with top tips and exercises for riders in all three phases, it is an ideal aid for parents or other halves of would-be event riders whose weekends will never be the same again once they hit the eventing circuit! Sections on rider fitness and sport psychology will help you prepare for the event and do your best on the day. An indispensable guide for all those new to the sport of eventing.

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The BHS Complete Manual of Equitation is the official handbook for all those learning to ride and/or train horses and also for teachers of riding. It is based on the hugely successful BHS Manual of Equitation which was first published nearly thirty years ago and which was updated and reprinted many times. The Complete Manual retains core material from The Manual and this has been updated and new chapters have been added on The Historical Review, The Scales of Training, The Training of the Dressage Horse, JumpTraining and Cross-country Riding. The BHS Complete Manual of Equitation is a complete, authoritative training guide for horse and rider both on the flat and over show jumps and cross-country fences, based on sound classical principles that have stood the test of time.

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Oops, missed again! Now you have an excuse, or 101 to be exact... This little book is the answer for any shot that misses from time to time and an explanation is needed, "The bird swerved", "I'm stiff from too much shooting", "I'm missing intentionally to make them fly higher", these are just a few of the examples that could just save you! Bryn's wonderful cartoons illustrate his excuses perfectly and make this book the essential gift for every shooter. At 6 inches square it's also the perfect size to keep in the pocket. So, if you miss, whip it out and select the perfect phrase...it could even be "Sorry, I was reading 101 Shooting Excuses and didn't see that".

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Easy-to-use horse whispering techniques and principles that can help you develop better bonds with horses. Chapters include understanding and speaking the horse's language, human body postures, getting horses to follow you and leadership, body space and boundaries.

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Real Riding offers different ways to approach traditional and natural principles of horsemanship. The emphasis throughout is on employing empathy and understanding and looking at things from the horse's point of view. It sheds light on common misconceptions, difficulties and contradictions, and the pages are crammed with exercises, simple "tricks" and things to do that can make a real difference. Perry Wood aims to put harmony with horses within grasp of every rider and brings the art of riding into the 21st century.

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Whilst the horse world is rich in descriptions that tell us what horse and rider should look like, we lack good information about exactly how to produce the desired results. Good horsemen ride well without knowing how they do it, and without understanding why you are not like them and cannot do it too. During 23 years of research it has been Mary Wanless's personal mission to expose the secrets of horsemanship, breaking down riding skills into 'bite-size chunks' and finding ways of describing them that work for average riders. By using the learning strategies given here the rider should discover how to connect with the horse in a way that makes sense to him and enables him to carry himself well, in self-carriage. At the same time the techniques aim to offer the rider security, stability and effectiveness in the saddle. This title sets out to simplify Ride With Your Mind methods and to provide a basic tool-kit for the acquisition of a truly independent seat in walk, trot and through transitions, on straight lines, turns and circles — and, importantly, how to make corrections when things don't go exactly to plan. Mary explains how to use the hands, legs and body correctly, and gives the ingredients for perfect contact. In each section, the instruction is backed up by practical self-tests and exercises to ensure success, and there are ideas for troubleshooting during the learning process and in the future.

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We all want our dogs to live pain-free, and we all want ways to connect with them. The Masterson Method® is an interactive approach to animal bodywork that follows and uses responses of the animal to your touch to find and release tension in areas of his body that affect: - His ability to get around. - His physical and mental well-being. - The quality of and length of his life. - His connection with you and other humans and animals. A lifelong horse person, Jim Masterson developed his method for the purpose of releasing tension and improving movement in the performance horse. An interesting benefit was that it led to improved communication and trust, and a better overall relationship with the horse. Since dogs go with horses “like peanut butter and jelly,” Jim says, it was only natural that he began to use his bodywork on canines, too. The techniques used in the Masterson Method rely on reading and following the subtle changes in the dog's body language as you work with him. Once you learn to read his body language, you will be “on the same page” and communication is established. Your dog recognizes that you understand what his body language is saying, that there is no threat to his well-being, and that he feels better when you work with him. In these pages you will learn the steps to incorporating the Masterson Method in your dog's life, bringing happiness to both of you. The Masterson Method is practical, easy to use, and results oriented. You see the results in the dog's responses during the bodywork, and in his behavior, comfort, and movement afterward. Beyond Dog Massage is the ideal instructional guide for all those seeking a better quality of life for and deeper connection with their dogs.

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The Countryman Sets Forth Again is a wonderful compilation of articles covering a range of eclectic rural and countryside subjects. There is something for everyone to discover from the ancient language of field sports to the treasures to be found in old barns; the history of the landscape to dryland husky racing and much more. Divided into seasonal sections and featuring more than forty-five chapters, many of the articles have appeared in The Field magazine. Here are all aspects of country life described in vivid detail, from the flora and fauna to the folklore. Descriptions of ancient customs feature alongside accounts of pigeon racing and hound trailing; and stories of exotic plant hunters from past centuries. Readers will encounter mad March hares, owls, ravens, bats, pike, eels, and the rare capercaillie. Other subjects include coppicing, ancient trees, hanging game, stoats, terriers and, that perennial British favourite, the weather. The author also takes us back to his childhood with memories of charcoal burners and of harvesting wild food. Combining his engaging writing, expert insight and immense knowledge, Johnny Scott is a master at celebrating and chronicling the countryside. In this book he continues to convey his wisdom and affection for the magic of nature and rural life.

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There is something for everyone in The Countryman. Whether you are a country dweller, an urban nature lover, an amateur historian, or a budding naturalist, the variety of subjects covered is a real treasure trove. From the toad to the bumblebee, the cuckoo to the pheasant, the life cycle of the dragonfly, the attractions of the nightjar and the dove, the development of sheep breeds and the value of the cottager’s pig – these are just some of the characters of the natural world as described by Johnny Scott. What are the origins of Oak Apple Day and when and where is it still celebrated? What do you know about Morecambe Bay shrimps or gulls’ eggs – how do they make the journey from harvest to plate? What is a hag stone and what is its connection to a horse brass? Do you know what marl is and where would you find it? Answers to these questions and so many others are to be found within these pages. The author’s acute powers of observation and fluent style enable him to convey his lifelong experiences and knowledge of the natural world in an informative but accessible way. His understanding of the origins of country customs and celebratory festivals is extensive, and his affection for them and all that the countryside has to offer shines through. Be prepared to be enlightened, amazed or amused – or probably all three!

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This is the fascinating autobiography of none other than Ted Dexter — aka Lord Ted — the ferociously powerful and debonair former England international cricketer and captain. Dexter was a classical, hard-hitting batsman and right-arm swing bowler of the highest order. Having captained England in 1961-2, stood as England’s chairman of selectors from 1989-1993 and then becoming President of the MCC in 2001, he is undeniably one of England’s most prolific cricketers, playing alongside and standing in the same legacy as the iconic Fred Trueman, Peter May, Colin Cowdrey, Richie Benaud and Gary Sobers. But, as Ted is eager to stress in the introduction of his book, he also lived a rich, lively and fulfilling life outside of his sporting career. Featuring tales galore — of his various escapades along the French Riviera, his experience of running a sports PR company, flying planes (just “because he could”), playing championship golf, racing greyhounds, journalism, broadcasting and honestly *so much more* — you’ll wonder if there’s anything in life this man couldn’t do! Fresh, vivacious and ridiculously entertaining, this book is destined to unravel as a rip-roaring read not only for those who recall his sporting legacy, but for anyone who resonates with Ted’s fervent enthusiasm for both cricket and life. All book royalties will be donated to the MCC Foundation -- Transforming Lives Through Cricket.

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Food is our most intimate and vital commodity, yet too many of us have lost touch with the reality of where it comes from and how it is produced. Providing a seasonal tour of a traditional farming year, passionate beef farmer Joe Stanley seeks to bridge this knowledge gap and inform the reader about the journey their food takes before it gets to the plate, revealing the realities of modern agricultural life for a British lowland farmer. Drawing on a lifetime of experience, he strips observations of the countryside and agricultural practices down to the core of his day-to-day, illustrating how our food is produced and why our farmed landscape looks the way it does. Along the way, he offers insight into his daily routine, such as how crops are planted, why livestock is brought in for winter, and what happens at harvest, while addressing the bigger issues surrounding food standards, sustainability, the environment, rural heritage, trade and the future of agricultural policy outside the EU. Often undermined as an antiquated pastime, agriculture is actually the core of a £122bn food and farming sector (the UK’s largest manufacturing industry), and Farm to Fork: The Challenge of Sustainable Farming in 21st Century Britain stands as a testament to British farming and the heart that goes into the food our farmers produce, the environmental stewardship they deliver and the landscape they maintain, whether through the assurance of food quality, animal welfare or environmental sustainability. This is a wonderfully-detailed and candid account of the life of a British farmer — of the highs and lows and lessons learned from a lifetime on the land.

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With Britain’s islands holding more than three-quarters of the Earth’s stock of heather moorland, it is an extraordinary fact that it stands as one of the world’s rarest habitats. A landscape beloved by millions, it’s renowned for the tranquillity and solace it provides – however, this tranquillity is an illusion. Britain’s moorlands have, in less than a decade, moved from a position of benign consensus to the epicentre of the bitterest conflict within UK conservation. This insightful book sets out to examine and expose the hidden issues surrounding UK moorland conservation, giving a voice to the many people who work and live there and who feel that what they have to say is often ignored, if it’s even heard at all. The fate of our uplands is in our hands, and it is important that an alternative narrative, from the perspective of the practitioners who have cared for these places for generations, are considered. It may be that those with power chose to ignore these facts and sweep them away, but at least now they cannot say they didn’t know.

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