Journalist's new novel is a love letter to Barnoldswick

'The Barlick Letter' is set in the town just before the downfall of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Newspaper editor Dick Chinnery answers a cry for help from his former mother-in-law and becomes entangled in a tale of scams, rip-offs and money laundering centred on an office in Albert Road.

It is David’s third novel in addition to six non-fiction books he has written in recent years.

"For some time I have wanted to write a novel based on the town where I lived until I was 21 and where my mother and father were well known long after I left," he said.

"If people like a story which has a definite beginning, middle and end, I’m sure they will enjoy the book in addition to recognising many local places."

David was a pupil at Rainhall Road Junior School and then Ermysted’s Skipton Grammar School. He spent three and a half years as a reporter on the Barnoldswick and Earby Times before moving to Maldon in Essex. Ten years later he became the town’s youngest Mayor while a member of the district council.

He was editor of both the Romford Observer and Banbury Guardian before becoming editor and managing director of the Birmingham Daily News – Britain’s first free morning newspaper. In 1988 he set up his own journalism and media law training company which took him round the world including three trips to the Falkland Islands. In all he trained more than 9,000 journalists and managers before retiring three years ago.

David has lived with his wife, Valerie, in Torquay for the last 30 years, but is still an avid Burnley FC supporter and regular visitor to the area. He played football for Bethesda FC in the Nelson and Colne League but is best remembered for his performances for both Barnoldswick and Thornton cricket clubs.

His other books have included the history of one of the oldest non-league football clubs, the story of Upton Vale Baptist Church and The Funk Hole Myth about life in Torquay 1939-45.

The Barlick Letter is only available direct from David who can be contacted at [email protected].