Author publishes new book of poetry and illustrations inspired by Southport's past

A local Author with a passion for Southport history has published his new book. Michael Walshe has penned Sandy Tracks, Volume 1; A Poetical and Illustrated Journey Through Southport's Past. The work is a unique collection of local history themed poems and paired illustrations which includes a well researched historical notes section at the rear, providing a more in depth look at the subject matter. Author David Walshe has been submitting poetry since 2019 and has previously featured both online and in print by publishers including Black Bough Poetry and the Southport based:- 'The Broken Spine Artist Collective.' He also manages a brilliant Twitter account called:- 'Secret Sand Land' where he tweets local history snippets on a daily basis and publishes monthly local history blogs which can be read on his website.

The illustrations have been completed by his brother Michael Walshe, whose work, seen here, has helped to bring the past to life. Michael's other artwork can be viewed on Instagram under:- MikeWalshe.Art. The book can be purchased for ₤10 per copy via:- SecretsAndLand.Co.UK or at Broadhurst's Bookshop, on Market Street, in Southport Town Centre. Alternatively for a local collection / delivery you can email David directly at:- Secretsandland@Gmail.Com or by sending a direct message to his Twitter account.

The new book has already enjoyed some warm plaudits from local literary figures. Local poet and writer Mary Earnshaw said:- "This fascinating mix of poetry, fact and legend contains plenty to surprise even the most knowledgeable of Southport residents, but its appeal is not only local. David has an insight born of deep connection to place and his ancestry in this once unknown spot on the North West coast."

Local historian Michael Braham said:- "This is a must read for all those interested in Southport's rich heritage. David has the rare ability to paint poetic word pictures of the Southport of yesteryear, coupled with skilfully crafted illustrations."

Phil McNulty, editor of The Fringe Poetry Magazine, said:- "Sandy Tracks is a startling literary and artistic creation. It is classical in its ambition to both uplift and educate and is an invariable contribution to understanding local history and dialect. There is wonderful synthesis between the very fine poetry, the exquisitely restrained illustrations, and the succinct historical research. I could not put this book down. You will return to it again and again."
 

AFTER the event's huge success in March which saw around 120,000 people safely enjoy the River of Light Trail, demand has been high for this spectacular outdoor art gallery to return to the City. From Friday, 22 October to Sunday, 7 November 2021, light installations with the theme Rhythm of the Light will take over the City centre, with each artwork inspired by Liverpool's musical heritage, the majority of which will have an accompanying soundtrack.

Details of the artists who will be part of the 17 night free trail will be unveiled next month, but visitors can expect the usual awe inspiring pieces similar to the scale of the stunning installations which transformed the waterfront earlier in the year. Highlights included the iconic Rainbow Bridge, by Josh Zubkoff and Srikanth Guttikonda, Neighbourhood by Sergey Kim; a beautiful illuminated washing line on Castle Street; and End Over End by Studio Vertigo which saw a giant slinky installed at Liverpool ONE.