A WEE COUNTY author will host a talk in Alloa later this month as he discusses his book and the issues which inspired it.

Andrew Hunt released his book, Forefront: Alloa at War 1914-1919, at the end of last year and will now give two talks at the Spiers Centre.

His first appearance - for January 22 - is now fully booked, but due to popular demand the second date has been added for January 30, at 2pm.

The former head of history at Alloa Academy will delve into the book which explores the impact of the Great War on the town of Alloa through themes such as education, religion, sport, industry, the important local families, political changes and the effects on women.

Andrew will discuss his research and inspiration for the work, and there will be some copies for sale on the day.

Speaking to the Advertiser after the initial release, Andrew said: “This book breaks down the issues relating to the Great War and its impact on the town of Alloa by presenting to the reader sections on themes such as education, religion, sport, the important local families, the political changes, effects on women, industry, the local heroes, the aftermath and memorialisation, etc.

"All these themes are carefully sewn together to show how the experience of one town can provide a glimpse into the bigger picture of the role of Scotland’s people in the war, not forgetting how individuals played their part in the local, regional, national and international stage of the battlefields of France, Flanders and across Empires.”

Andrew was the principal teacher of history at Alloa Academy for 32 years before retiring in 2010, and it was during those three decades that he and a colleague, David Henderson, immersed themselves in the history of the Great War.

He continued: “When I retired, I set about writing a book from all of my findings I got over the years.

"We [he and David] built up quite a collection of stuff over the years. I always thought we could get a book out of it.”

The event, which will take place at 2pm in the Ceremony Room of the Alloa library, is free but tickets are required.

Those wishing to attend are urged to snap up a ticket quickly as the room can only hold 30 people.

Tickets are free but need to be booked in advance by contacting any Library/CAP or by calling 01259 452 262.

There will be tea and coffee available.