An engaging and authoritative account of Luton’s past. A Lutonian, Anne wrote Crimson and Gold, Luton Modern School, Luton High School for Girls and Luton Technical School published in 2004 and The Education and Employment of Girls in Luton 1874-1923 published by B.H.R.S. in 2005, before embarking on her ground-breaking history of Luton in 2010. A History of Luton was first published in 2010, but has been substantially revised and updated.

An initial chapter spans from the Neolithic settlement at Waulud’s Bank, Leagrave, through evidence for Iron Age and Roman occupation, and Anglo-Saxon settlement. This is followed by chapters on Medieval Luton, including Luton Castle; Seventeenth- to Nineteenth-Century Luton – very well illustrated, including contemporary maps; Country Houses – Luton Hoo, Someries, Stockwood Park, Putteridge Bury and Wardown; Education; Industry – brewing, hat making, the drive to attract new industries (Vauxhall Motors, SKF, Percival Aircraft/Hunting), Luton Airport (opened in 1938); Luton at War, from the Boer War, the First World War and the Peace Riots of 1919, Luton’s experience during the Second World War; Migration; Leisure; concluding with Luton, the Town, which draws out Luton’s special character and culture.

Throughout, this volume is richly illustrated, rigorously researched and indexed. If you want to understand Luton’s rich history, A History of Luton is a great place to start. Recommended.