BOOKS: Shocking truth about unsanitary past of town

Margaret Gowler came across the unsanitary conditions of little more than a century ago when she researched her latest book, Bedford Street and John Street.

The former is now mainly notable for the presence of Morrisons while the latter exists in a name plate.

But they were packed with cottages and businesses in the late 19th century and well into the 20th century.

The agricultural and building labourers who lived in the already old properties endured a quality of life which would be unthinkable today. The records of the board of health in 1886 stated some of the tenements and cottages were without water.

Others had only a well.

Mrs Gowler had to overcome the challenges of confusing official records to piece together the past of a virtually-vanished portion of central Bognor.

Her sources included West Sussex Record Office, adverts from the Bognor Observer and census returns. Local fellow historian Ron Iden added his knowledge as well.

The book which is illustrated with maps and photographs, is available, price 6, from Bognor's museum in the High Street or from Mrsa Gowler at 33 South Way, Bognor Regis, PO21 5HB, tel 01243 827089.

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