THE memoirs of Alfred Thomas Tilley is a life story, transporting the reader back over a century.

Alfred was born during the First World War, not long after the Battle of the Somme, and has experienced many changes over the years in a small, remote village called Crackington Haven.

His ancestors once filled the parish and followed the farming tradition, which had remained same for centuries. His grandfather was a tenant of Crackington Manor Estate and when this was split up in the early 1900s, his father, William, purchased the Manor House.

He was ambitious and put his heart and soul into building a business that would support his family and give them a future.

The Second World War changed their family’s situation drastically; Alfred volunteered for the army and was away for over six years, serving in France and Germany. On his return, he discovered everything had changed and he struggled to establish a business in this small coastal region off the beaten track.

Alfred filled the demand for transport during the time of transition from horses and carts to the early days of automobiles.

After the war, he was delighted to share his love of Cornwall, and encouraged the holiday trade by offering coach tours around the coast.

This new book is an eclectic mix, including some of the local history known to Alfred. It also introduces the reader to the family, including details on how they lived many years ago, and the recipe for the long life enjoyed by Alfred and his eldest siblings.

Alfred wishes to pass on some of his local knowledge for the benefit of the future generations, to anyone who is fascinated by this beautiful little haven or to those who live or have lived there.

The book is available from August, and costs £11.99.