Features and Reviews

The Brixham Drake

If you are looking for something original then the Brixham Drake aims to evoke memories of times spent in and around the harbour. Alan Enright former owner of the Brixham Bay Monthly took time out to review this book hoping to make its way on to your bookshelves….

I can think of no better present for a child than a colourful, well illustrated book that both entertains and informs. These are the criteria that I looked for when I was buying books for my children many years ago and still apply now when I buy for grandchildren, neices or nephews. If the book is also a good read for adults that is an unexpected bonus.

A new book, THE BRIXHAM DRAKE, by local author Gill Sharp ticks all these boxes. It is a story based on a real bird, that made its home in Brixham Harbour.

The Drake and his friends arrive in this alien environment after the frightening sound of fireworks force them to flee from their cosy pond life in Knick Knack Lane. They soon adapt to their surroundings and are befriended by many of the locals.

However, over many years all the birds leave the harbour, either through natural causes or accident, until the Brixham Drake is left all alone. He becomes a familiar sight, spending most of his time resting or sleeping on the slipway next to the Prince William Statue. This enchanting tale recounts the quest of Sam, a young visitor on a day trip to Brixham, who is fascinated by the Drake and is determined to find out all about him and how he came to make the harbour his home. He returns again with his family and later on his own in his quest to discover all he can about the Drakes story.

Although the meeting between Sam and the Drake is fictional, a group of ducks did live in Brixham Harbour for many years and were a familier sight.

The book is beautifully illustrated throughout with 32 pictures which have been created from photos taken of the real Drake, skilfully blended in with places he will have visited during the many years he lived and raised his family in Brixham Harbour.

Alan Enright

Copies are now available from the following outlets Brix – Boox, Tourist Information Office, David's Health Food Shop on Bolton St, Brixham Heritage Battery Museum, Fishcome Cove, Brixham and Torbay Bookstore, Paignton.

Or Order your copy through the Brixham Bay Monthly on 01803 852365, with free delivery to local addresses in TQ5 area.

The book with a recommended retail price of £7.50 is produced locally by Bendles Print.