Before his left knee finally calls it a day, Black Country-bred writer Bob Bibby decides to explore the region he has lived, worked and played in for over fifty years. Anxious about going through tunnels alone, he persuades ex-Scaffold member John Gorman to join him on a fifty-mile circular walk along canal towpaths in search of the Black Country past and present. What ensues is a journey in turn informative, entertaining and irreverent, as the intrepid duo survive snowstorms, social vomit, curries, closed museums, retail therapy-seekers and West Bromwich Albion supporters.

Learn exactly why the Black Country dialect is so mellifluous, why Black Country beers are so delicious, and where Black Country 'osses come from. Discover the real story behind Stourbridge Crystal Glass, the opening of Sandwell & Dudley station, "legging" boats, and sortation centres. Find out the best-named fish 'n' chip shops and hairdressing salons in the region.

And meet some of its fascinating characters:

• Sporting icons like William Perry (bareknuckle boxing champion), Joe Darby (standing jump champion), Tessa Sanderson (Olympic javelin champion), footballers Duncan Edwards (Manchester United and England) and Billy Wright (captain of Wolves and England);
• Entrepreneurs like the Earls of Dudley, 'Iron-Mad' Jack Wilkinson, James Watt, Matthew Boulton, and Mad O'Rourke;
• Politicians like Enoch Powell ("rivers of blood"), Betty Boothroyd ("Order, Order") and John Stonehouse ("Miami beach");
• Entertainers like Noddy Holder (Merry XmasEverybody), Meera Syal (Goodness Gracious Me) , Jack Judge (It's a Long Way to Tipperary), and James Whale (Frankenstein).

Then sit back and enjoy a helping of the Black Country's favourite dish - GREY PEAS AND BACON!

Published by TravellersEye Ltd