Pembrokeshire: Journeys and Stories, Trevor Fishlock and Jeremy Moore, 2011, Gomer Press, 156p, ISBN 9781848510869, £19-99.

This book will interest those who have some experience of the Pembrokeshire countryside and coast but equally it sets the scene well for those who are not yet familiar with this south-western corner of Wales. The text is provided by the experienced journalist, Trevor Fishlock, and his writing is complemented by the high quality photography of Jeremy Moore.

This book provides a framework for those of us who believe that we know Pembrokeshire well but, for me at least, there was much to be learned. What we see now is very much a holiday destination set amidst farming country with the added attractions of some castles such as Manobier and Pembroke and some interesting towns and churches, not least of which is St David's Cathedral. All those aspects are contained in this enthralling book but there is much more to discover. Trevor Fishlock adeptly introduces us to a vast array of historic industrial and entrepreneurial activities, most of which have been abandoned but which have left their mark on the landscape - coal-mining, brick-making, slate quarrying, and iron-working - and the rise and decline of various harbours and ports, and the effect of the arrival of the railway on local coastal trade.

By focussing on the people and characters of the area, and indeed on the traditions and myths, Trevor Fishlock reveals the culture which has emerged in this community. He is naturally very enthusiastic about Gerald of Wales - Giraldus Cambriensis - the medieval chronicler who grew up at Manobier, and Henry VII who was born in Pembroke Castle, but others such as Isambard Kingdom Brunel who brought the railway to this area and who hoped to create a major link with America are equally celebrated

If you have the slightest interest in Pembrokeshire this is the book to read: it will add flavour to your understanding of the area.