Andrew Thomas, who lived in Tenby in his early years when his father was a curate at St. Mary’s Church, has recently published a book called Once Upon A Place, a collection of linked short stories set in his native Pembrokeshire.

Andrew was later brought up in the fishing and farming village of Angle on the tip of the Pembroke peninsular. Son of the village rector, he experienced a unique community and way of life that has largely disappeared: electricity was yet to make an appearance and running water inside houses was a rarity.

The people who inhabited such a special place had an identity and individuality characteristic of south Pembrokeshire folk, the ‘little England beyond Wales’. His book, in many ways, is a tribute to them and the special place they inhabited.

Once upon a Place is about growing up in rural 1950s Pembrokeshire where a new day means a new adventure for the central character, Tom Jenkins. From the beaches to the woods and everywhere in between, Tom takes us on journeys that charm, frighten and exhilarate in equal measure.

Phil Carradice, a prolific well-known Pembrokeshire author, says of the book: “It’s enthralling, captivating and very well written. I defy anyone not to enjoy this.”

For 35 years, Andrew taught English in grammar and comprehensive schools in England and Wales. He has regularly contributed to various magazines, has had his poetry published, and was an editor of a university publication for many years.

The book is available from the author himself (www.andrew-thomas.format.com). And also from some local bookshops. It costs £7.99.