This week has been particularly hectic getting ready for the Book Launch at Waterstones on Saturday and the Heritage Trail launch on the Sunday. It all kicked in with a
Howard GWEDD Radio Interview low
at Radio Verulam on Thursday evening on the ParentShow. Friday saw an article in the Herts Advertiser (Harpenden Issue),
Saturday morning we headed into St Albans to set up the 'stall' for the book signing. I was joined by Bonnie Friend, the illustrator, and Isobel my grandaughter who did the cover image for the book. We had a bit of a slow start but it soon picked up and we ended up selling over 40 copies of the book. The Wicked Lady (Annie Brewster) and Cassivellaunus (Neill Sankey) which casued a bit of a stir in the shop.
On Sunday we had the launch of the Wheathampstead Heritage Trail which is a lottery funded initiative to bring to life the history of the village and its surroundings. A number of blue plaques have been put up on historic buildings etc. in the village.
I was located in St Helen's church doing book signings along with the local archeological society and the history society who had old photographic of the village. Again we had a good day and sold and signed
33 copies of the book making a total of 74 books over the weekend.
The heritage trail was opened/launched (link to YouTube Video) by Imelda Staunton (Professor Deloroes Umbridge from Harry Potter) and Jim Carter (Mr Carter the butler from Downton Abbey).
The day had a real buzz about it and mulled wine, served by Jim Carter, and mince pies supplied by the Guides provided sustenance to the hundreds of visitors to the village.
Following the formal opening people wandered off to see all the sites on the heritage trail guided by a great handout which had been provided for the trail.