Andover author receives political acclaim

A celebrated Andover author has received praise from both the current local MP, sir George Young and his hopeful successor, Conservative Candidate, Kit Malthouse.

Bryan Beggs, a former RAF pilot, was delighted when England’s Story, his history book for young minds, was the bestselling children’s book at the recent Chalke Valley History Festival. Now his mission to illuminate our island story in the minds of youngsters has been endorsed by the two local politicians.

In the book a grandfather takes his twin grandchildren, Sam and Nikki, through the history of England, picking out the key events from 55 BC to the present day and answering their questions in language that a child would understand.

Sir George Young said: “Bryan’s book came to late for my children, but it will be invaluable when the grandchildren come to stay! I hope the book reaches a wide audience in the country’s homes and schools.”

Kit Malthouse said: ”My eldest is a history nut, and we have a set of twins who I know will love this book when they reach the right age. The events of the last fortnight, as the country has remembered WW1, highlight the importance of history as a subject and the lessons we can learn from it. Bryan’s book is a brilliant way to plant the acorn of enthusiasm for our past in young minds.”

The book is published by the Test Valley Churches Book Society is available from Waterstones in Andover or online. All proceeds will go to the Chalke Valley History Trust. You can learn more about the book and the author at www.englandsstory.co.uk