Stoke Minster was filled with warmth and pride yesterday as renowned local historian Fred Hughes officially launched his new book, Stoke on Trent: The Story of a City 1925 to 2025. Created with local publisher Barewall, the book charts the key moments in the civic life of the city and celebrates the people who shaped its character across one remarkable century.
For many of us who gathered inside the Minster, it felt like the perfect way to round off the city’s centenary year. Fred spoke with his usual passion, sharing just a fraction of his encyclopaedic knowledge. He touched on everything from the monks of Hulton Abbey to the families who played defining roles in Stoke on Trent’s early growth. At one point, he smiled and said, “I hope I didn’t bore you.” The truth is, most of us could have listened to him for another hour at least.
Described by many as his love letter to Stoke on Trent, the book promises rich characters, iconic stories and a heartfelt look at the city’s journey. It is far from a dry history. Instead, it celebrates the spirit, ambition and resilience of the people who made this place what it is today.
Fred is a historian, author, former councillor and police officer, and an Honorary Doctor of Staffordshire University. His knowledge of the area is unmatched, and hearing him speak about much-missed figures and taking a quiet moment to pay respects to Mike Lloyd made the morning feel especially poignant.
The book costs £20 and will be available to buy at Barewall Art Gallery in Burslem, Gladstone Pottery Museum and the Civic Centre in Stoke. I was also honoured to come home with a signed copy, personalised to me, which I will absolutely cherish.
It was a privilege to be there for a moment that felt both reflective and hopeful. A celebration of where we have come from and a reminder of why our city’s story continues to matter.
If you pick up a copy, you are in for something special.
You can also purchase a copy online from Barewall here, https://www.barewall.co.uk/collections/art-books-media-and-posters/products/signed-making-of-a-city-of-stoke-on-trent-1925-to-2025-by-fred-hughes
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