The Strange History of Seagulls

Maldwin Drummond has a long list of published books to his name, and in 2016 he added his favourite book, `The Strange History of Seagulls', especially for children (although grown-ups will enjoy it too. 'The Strange History of Seagulls' is illustrated on every page with Maldwin's characterful watercolour sketches of the seagulls and their story.

Maldwin was the best of storytellers for this history of the Solent, but in this book it is generations of seagulls tell of the comings and goings of centuries, from early Viking times to the present day.

The seagulls describe how Ashlett got its name, how the Brambles were formed, how sailing ships restocked their victuals at Cowes, how smugglers collected their contraband, how war struck the British coast, how peace allowed seabirds to thrive, how the foil has revolutionised the America's Cup, and much, much more.

Next time you go to the beach and hear the call, "Kyow, kek-kek-kek-kyau.

Kyow-ko!" listen hard, it may be a descendant of George, historian of the seagulls and narrator of `The Strange History of Seagulls'.