LIFE LONG LOVE
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This week The Hawk had his beak firmly stuck in the latest two publications from Nynehead Books. The World Encyclopaedia of Trucks, by Peter Davies, is an illustrated guide to classic and contemporary trucks from around the world.
The first section of the book deals with the history of the truck; Davies charts its evolution from its earliest origins as a crude powered cart to a highly efficient marvel of modern technology. Also in this section he looks at the history of the diesel engine, truck anatomy and the role of the truck in modern society. Other chapters are dedicated to truck types, specialised trucks, and national differences in truck design.
However the main thrust of the book is the A-Z of manufacturers, from AEC to Zwicky. The accessible text, along with beautiful colour photos and illustrations, ensure that this encyclopaedia will appeal to afficionados and novices alike.
Peter Davies is also the
author of Atkinson, from the Lorries Illustrated Series.
This is definitely one for those who have ever carried a torch for these trucks. For Davies it has certainly been a life-long love affair—all the pictures in the book were taken by the author himself over 25 years.
The photographs capture the essence of these vehicles in their everyday working lives, displaying authentic period livery, much of which has now vanished into the mists of time. The book traces the company's beginnings back to 1907 when Edward and Henry Atkinson, with their partner George Hunt, set up Atkinson & Co engineer
ing firm in Preston. The last Atkinson-badged vehicles were butt by Seddon-Atkinson (now part of lveco) in 1975.
The World Encyclopaedia of Trucks costs £19.95; Atkinson is £17.95. Contact Nynehead Books, The Old Dairy, Perry Farm, East Nynehead, Somerset, TA21 ODA, 011323 461997.