Dr Bob Curran's new book set for Waterstones launch

Think you know Coleraine?

Think again!

Last year, historian Dr. Bob Curran published ‘Tales from Around the Town - Coleraine and Beyond,’ a fascinating collection of overlooked events, colourful characters and forgotten stories that helped shape the borough we call home.

The book drew on a series of articles Bob had originally penned for local newspapers more than three decades ago, bringing together some of the town’s most intriguing and lesser-known incidents and characters for a new generation of readers.

“The book was more successful than I ever could have ever imagined!” Bob revealed.

“When people started asking if a second volume would be coming out I realised I had to say yes - and get writing again.”

And so, the wait is over.

‘Tales from Around the Town - Coleraine and Further Beyond’ is set to be launched at Waterstones, Coleraine, on Saturday November 7 at 11.30 am.

Once again, the book is illustrated by the acclaimed artist, Paul Malone, whose striking artwork for the first volume earned widespread praise.

Highlighting the inspiration behind the new volume, Bob said: “Coleraine has a rich and fascinating history, much of which is sadly overlooked.

“I wanted to record some of its more unusual and quirky stories before they disappeared from memory altogether.

“We’ve also expanded the scope of the book to include intriguing tales from the surrounding district.”

He is keen to stress that the book is written with local readers in mind.

“This isn’t an academic study,” he explained.

“It’s a book for ordinary people who take pride in their town and want to learn more about its past. That’s why everyone is welcome to join us at the launch on November 7.”

Published by Homemade Press and priced at £9.95, ‘Tales from Around the Town - Coleraine and Further Beyond’ brings together another collection of remarkable stories from the past.

And for readers wondering what awaits between the covers, Bob promises plenty of surprises.

Ever heard of Baron Coleraine (yes, there really is one), a lost princess, a disastrous wedding, vanished towns or a church that mysteriously ‘turned?’

These intriguing tales - and many more - are waiting to be discovered in the new book.