It's always good to read a book which reflects the author's long-held passion and this volume by Fred Dibnah is no exception.

Fred, who was born in the North-West in an age when the factories in the mill towns depended on the power of mighty steam-driven engines, draws on his extensive knowledge to show how the harnessing of steam proved to be a real turning point for Britain.

But more than that, he brings to life some of the characters who helped to create the age of steam.

In his introduction, the author tells how he developed his interest in steam as a small boy living near the railway lines in Bolton "climbing over the fence and doing things that little boys shouldn't do".

He was also fascinated by the tall chimneys that surrounded him, and the rumbling of machinery inside the great spinning mills.

The development of the steam engine and its many uses is chronicled in a fascinating and readable style and includes the record-breaking railway runs which took place all over the country in the 1930s.

He writes: "There is a view that the steam locomotive was replaced by diesels and electrics because it was so slow. However, as many of the services today are not much faster than steam was 50 years ago, this was obviously not the case."

Fred Dibnah's book also has the advantage of a great selection of illustrations.

Age Of Steam is published by BBC Books, price: £16.99.

Fred Dibnah will be at Waterstones, High Ousegate, York from 6.30-8pm on Tuesday to talk about his book and answer questions.

Updated: 09:00 Wednesday, July 09, 2003