Dr Patrick Chaplin has published his second book set in Maldon, a record of early nineties memories and adventure.

A Maldon Journal 1990-1933 - An extraordinary view of the town and its environs, written by local author and social historian, Dr Patrick Chaplin, of Norfolk Road, takes an "unusual approach" to recalling the town's history. 

Dr Patrick told Nub News:

"The book is a collection of journal entries written during the early 1990s, which records the life of an elderly Maldonian named Bernie, who, many decades ago, left the town in search of fame and fortune. However, after decades of searching, he found neither, so decided to return to his roots in 1990…

"Accompanied by Gerald, Bernie decides to walk the streets and alleyways of the town in search of his memories; to reignite them, with Gerald, notebook, and pencil poised, to record for posterity Bernie's return and what he found there."

Primarily focused in Maldon, the book tells the story of Bernie and Gerald's local adventures, with areas featured including Heybridge, Burnham-on-Crouch, Danbury, and South Woodham Ferrers. The two are always in search of memories, adventure, and, as Dr Patrick puts it, "a decent pint". 

(Maldon bus station, the early nineties, Photo Credits: Patrick Chaplin)

A Maldon Journal is not Dr Patrick's only Maldon book. 

His 'revisited' version of Ken Stubbing's classic 1988 Maldon pub book, Good Luck to the Pint Pot, became a best-seller at Maldon Books during the festive season last year, and was described as a "welcome stocking-filler".

Dr Patrick hopes A Maldon Journal will be just as well-received:

"I am sure A Maldon Journal 1990-1993 will appeal to all ages but especially those who have memories of those years, events, people, and places that they can now recall with a smile. Let's face it, we all need, and deserve, something to smile about these days!"

Chaplin is also well known for his book Darts in England 1900-1939 – A Social History, which was published by the prestigious Manchester University Press in 2009. This saw him being coined as the "Doctor of Darts" by the national press, and he is now known as one of the world's leading Dart historians.

A Maldon Journal 1990-1993 - An extraordinary view of the town and its environs costs £10.00 and is available at, or can be ordered from, Maldon Books, 23 High Street, or direct from Patrick on 01621 856040.