HAPPY 100th BIRTHDAY TO RONALD BLYTHE CBE

 

Many years ago, this esteemed British writer, who became the President of our Brentwood Writers' Circle, wrote his famous book Akenfield: Portrait of an English Village, set in Suffolk, a county he knows so well. Five years later, in spring 1974, Sir Peter Hall, made Ronald's story into a film, in which local villagers  took some of the parts. It's now a classic and can be viewed on the web.

Ronald Blythe kept in touch with our Brentwood Writers' Circle, through his friend, Eileen Huckbody from time to time and invited our members to his home in north Essex, as well as visiting us to give talks about his current work.

Today, numerous national newspapers marked Ronald's special birthday, mentioning his very latest title 'Next to Nature: A Lifetime In The English Countryside' ' which was recently published by John Murray Books.  

When interviewed, Ronald said his new book contained an important message - to slow down and appreciate the natural world. And yes, he was pleased with his congratulatory message from King Charles. He could very well be greeting his friends at his home and maybe enjoying a glass of sherry. 

We wish you a very happy birthday.