Steep Holm is a small island in the Bristol Channel, about 5 miles west of the seaside town of Weston-super-Mare. It was bought by the Kenneth Allsop Memorial Trust in 1976 and has been run by them ever since.
Howard and Rosie Smith, who live in Weston-super-Mare, obviously have a deep affection for Steep Holm. This book is the story of the work carried out on the island by the 2 wardens and a dedicated band of enthusiastic volunteers between 2001 and 2006. They renovated the old Victorian barracks, cleared paths, monitored and cared for the island's wildlife and welcomed visitors.
The book is a slim volume and is easily lost on the shelves of a library, which is probably why it hasn't been borrowed much. However it is a real gem. It was originally published in the Weston and Somerset Mercury as a series of diary articles. The text of the book was written by Howard Smith. The book is lavishly illustrated with colour drawings done by Rosie Smith of the island from every angle, its flora & fauna, buildings, the remains of the military batteries and archaeological remains. The book also contains a hand drawn map of the island and a potted history. An excellent little book - small but perfectly formed. 10/10
Islands covered - Steep Holm
One of the old batteries
The Bristol Queen - this was the island's passenger ferry during the period covered by the book
Gull chick on Steep Holm, July 2006
Rudder Rock, Steep Holm
The landing beach and old pub, east coast of Steep Holm
East coast of Steep Holm
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