Former publican launches new book detailing 200 years of history of pubs in and around Sudbury
While pubs have been closed, a writer and historian has reflected on happier times in his new book.
Former publican Peter Thorogood has completed A Pub Crawl Through Time, to detail two centuries of pubs, clubs and bars around Sudbury.
After delays caused by Covid-19, the book went on sale this month, in time for pubs reopening.
Mr Thorogood, 79, who lives in the town, said: “It has been frustrating to have been delayed because I have been working on this book for so long.
“Perhaps it is not the best of times, but hopefully it will cheer up those who value pubs, whether it’s for their history or as a place to socialise.”
In the book, Mr Thorogood works alphabetically through 79 inns, pubs and clubs, identifying sites of many which drew their last pint long ago and are now homes or shops.
He delves into the history of both survivors and the lost by means of photographs, documentary evidence, lists of previous landlords, his collected anecdotes and clips from newspapers – some dating back to the early 18th century.
“Along the way, there are fires, fights and riots,” he said.
“There is stage coaching, the story of the famed Pickwick Club – based on Dickens’ novel – and the fake sheikh who fooled a village fete.”
Mr Thorogood has written other local history books, and has particular insight into the licensed trade, having run pubs in and around Sudbury for most of his life.
For decades, he was chairman of the local Licensed Victuallers’ Association and most recently was manager of the Masonic Hall in North Street.
Ahead of pubs opening, he added: “Don’t go to the bar until you know what you want and don’t wave your money or click your fingers for attention – it’s the best way to be ignored.”
The book is on sale now for £14.95 and contains a glossy-cover designed by Robin Drury.
There is also a foreword by Andrew Phillips, Lord Phillips of Sudbury. Sudbury Freemen’s Trust, Sudbury Museum Trust and the Sudbury Society all made contributions to the cost of publication.
The book can be bought from Winch and Blatch, the information centre at the town hall, David’s in Gainsborough Street and Duck in Boots in Gaol Lane.
It is also available online at www.duckinboots.co.uk.
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