Everyman's England

By: Victor Canning, Michael Bartlett

Narrated by: Charles Collingwood

A selection of travel writing and personal observations of England in the 1930s by the thriller writer, Victor Canning. AUTHOR: Victor Canning is best known as a thriller writer, though he also wrote historical romances and books for children. Over a writing career spanning 50 years, he wrote more than 60 books and over 80 short stories. Many of his books have been filmed. “Everyman’s England” is a collection of travel articles which were published in book form in 1936. ABRIDGER: Michael Bartlett is a writer with many radio, television and stage plays to his credit, though perhaps he is best known for writing “The Archers” for Radio 4 and “Rainbow” for Thames Television. He is also a producer and has directed plays, readings and documentaries for the BBC, commercial radio and for audio publication.

READER: Charles Collingwood started his career in repertory theatre. He has toured overseas, performed on the London stage and has appeared in many TV and radio shows. In 1975 he joined the cast of "The Archers" to play the character of Brian Aldridge – the J.R. of Ambridge. Charles has appeared in a number of TV and radio game shows, including "Celebrity Weakest Link" which he won. In 2003 he was the subject of "This Is Your Life" for the BBC. Charles regularly entertains audiences with his one man show "Playing Away". MUSIC: Traditional Music arranged and played by Richard and Elizabeth York, from “Playing for Time” published by Lizards Music, Northampton.

©1936 The Victor Canning Estate (P)2005 Crimson Cats Audio Books

Critic reviews

“I knew nothing of the novelist Victor Canning until ‘Everyman’s England’ dropped through my letterbox, but after listening to Charles Collingwood (aka Brian Aldridge of ‘The Archers’) voicing these pin-sharp evocations of England in the 1930s, I predict that Canning will soon be rediscovered.” (Christina Hardyment, The Times)

"These fascinating vignettes are from the thriller writer Victor Canning. An unmissable gem beautifully read by 'The Archers' Brian." (Rachel Redford, The Oldie Magazine)