Northcourt Avenue: It's History & People

Northcourt Avenue: its History and People by Penny Kemp - 2^nd edition

The first edition of this local history was published by the local residents’ association, NARA, in 1996. It sold out quickly and inquiries have subsequently been received from new and former residents even including one from the USA. Further reminiscences were prompted, and changes have taken place with the building of several new houses and the development of Stansfield Close which have all been included in the second edition.

The growth of this suburban street fringed by its characteristic lime trees parallels the history of 20^th and 21^st century Reading. It chronicles the impact of the growing use of the motor car, the move from homes with a staff of servants and nannies for the prosperous businessmen and retailers of the town, the semi-detached chalet bungalows and houses of the 1920s, infilling and replacement of houses with irreparable subsidence with 21^st century homes.

The book looks at the architects and builders responsible for the Arts and Crafts style houses and the characteristic styles of the pre - First World and inter war period when most of the houses were built. Reference is made to the outstanding academics, artists, inventors and sportsmen who at one time or another lived in the road.

Illustrations by local artists, some of national renown such as Robert Gillmor, who live or have lived in the avenue have been retained. Photographs taken in the avenue include a young Peter May holding a cricket bat and Margaret Thatcher attending a Christening. Colour photographs have also been added to the new and updated edition.

It is in A4 format and runs to 84 pages