Andrew Simpson: A theft …. .. the undelivered speech .... and the late arrivals … stories from a book launch

Sunday, 24 November 2024

A theft …. .. the undelivered speech .... and the late arrivals … stories from a book launch

Yesterday was the launch of our new series of books on the History of Greater Manchester By Tram at Central Ref.

And despite Storm Bertie which produced heavy grey clouds and rain over the city with snow and much else in the surrounding townships it was a success.

Over 30 friends and guests joined the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress at the presentation.

But as ever there were the other stories behind the scenes, like the story from one of the Library staff who recounted an account of the well spoken and polite visitor who walked off with two copies of our book from the bookshop in the Ref. She had complained at the lack of detail in the stories, but still walked away without paying until when confronted by the assistant, returned the said publications.

And then there is the missing speech, because having asked the Lord Mayor to give an address we totally forgot to invite him to do so.

An embarrassing moment for which we apologised, and the Lord Mayor gracefully accepted.

Leaving just the two late arrivals who had been delayed by an unexpected visit from their grandchildren which should always take precedence.

They arrived after everyone else had gone, but we being the true professionals gave them the full power point presentation all over again.

And that is that.

Other than to say sadly almost all the pictures I took of the day have been lost.

But on an upbeat note, a thank you to the Lord Mayor and his wife, all the friends and interested readers who attended, and Dorethee of the Library staff for making the room available and ensuring the event ran smoothly and finally the staff behind the counter in the Ref who are selling our books.

The first two books in the series can be found in Chorlton Bookshop, Waterstones on Deansgate, and in the Shop in Central Ref or from us at www.pubbooks.co.uk, price £4.99**

Location; Central Ref