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In the forty odd years between 1896 - the year the Locomotives on Highways Act came into effect - and the Second World War, Britain was changed for ever by the automobile. This rich, evocative and entertaining book charts that fascinating chapter of social history.
At first motoring was a sport, the car a plaything for the likes of King Edward or Mr Tooad. But the 'motoring age' signalled far-reaching changes. Women gained independence, the countryside was rejuvenated, and towns were transformed as working people flocked to the car-friendly suburbs. The poor could leave their grimy cities to 'go rolling out across the moors to the sea', for holidays in Blackpool or Nrighton. Little wonder perhaps that George Orwell saw in the motoring age the seeds of a new Britain, liberated from class.'
book reviews
- Michael Kerrigan, The Scotsman
'Thorold's impressively well-grounded, yet enormously enjoyable, history reveals the remarkable impact the automobile had on our country and on our lives.' - Nick Prendergast, Geographical
'The Motoring Age is a well-constructed and often amusing journey through the history of the car. - Daily Telegraph
'Compact. well-sprung and nippy' - Good Book Guide
'A witty and engrossing ride...this book will make you glad you hopped on board.' - Classic Cars
'Amusing, informative and beautifully illustrated'
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