Yeovil rose to prominence in the 1800s as a major centre of glove making. By the early twentieth century, it was dominated by the defence industry, making it a target for German bombers during the Second World War. Between 1940 and 1942, over 100 high-explosive bombs fell on the town, damaging thousands of buildings. Today, Yeovil’s association with the aircraft and defence industries continues with AgustaWestland helicopters being the largest employer.

Yeovil From Old Photographs charts the town’s proud and distinctive history through a fascinating selection of old photographs, prints and postcards, showing what life was like for Yeovil’s past residents and bearing witness to the celebrations and the struggles of this Somerset town. Written by local historian Bob Osborn, this book will inform and delight long-time residents as well as those new to the town.