‘Hedge End From Village to Town’ – New Book, by Hedge End Author Stephen Tanti

Written by Stephen Tanti, Hedge End born and bred, with research input and technical assistance from fellow Hedge Ender Denis Collins, ‘Hedge End From Village to Town’ traces the history of Hedge End.

It begins with very early times when a Roman road ran close to present day Heath House Lane and  with the Manor of Shamblehurst built in the 13th century,  and follows on marking the development of roads, schools, housing, churches, shops, as well as detailing the history of some of the more notable families of Hedge End.

It’s a fascinating read, full of photographs and interesting facts.  For instance, whereas most Hedge Enders know about the town’s strawberry heritage, do you know what ‘chips’ were?  (Not the  ‘and fish’ sort but those connected with strawberry cultivation.)

Stephen says, ‘I wrote the book because I have always had an interest in the history of Hedge End and my family has lived here for generations. My Nan, although born in Lowford, moved here when she married – and there’s a photo in the book of my great grandparents’ wedding group outside the St John’s Rooms in 1913.

 ‘I also had lots of old photographs and it seemed a shame not to share those with other Hedge End residents.’

Much of the detail for the text came through interviews Stephen held with local people. He’s obviously stirred up memories because people are still coming forward with information, even after the book’s been published and with so much to tell Stephen’s considering producing a second book.

The book is dedicated in part to ‘the next generation of Hedge Enders’ – and does indeed seem a fine way of passing on Hedge End’s history to the next generation.

The book is priced at £9.95 and can be bought at Stephen’s second-hand bookshop, above the Post Office in Upper Northam Road.