AN OSWESTRY writer has achieved a remarkable feat at the ripe age of 89 by publishing his first book.

Titled 'Steaming Through Life', Paul Evans’ memoir chronicles his career on the historic railways during the historic era of steam engines.

The book takes readers on a journey from his humble beginnings in Newtown to his experiences in London and eventually settling closer to home in Shrewsbury.

“My biggest boyhood dream was to work on the magnificent steam horses that we think of as railway engines,” said Paul.

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Starting at the age of 14 as a lamp boy at Newtown Railway Station, Paul was fortunate enough to progress to working on various steam engines — a job he wholeheartedly loved.

Even today, Paul remains connected to steam engines as an active member of the Cambrian Heritage Railway in Oswestry.

The pages of Paul's memoir are filled with the adventures of a young man navigating the world.

Border Counties Advertizer: Paul with his memoir Steaming Through LifePaul with his memoir Steaming Through Life

It not only offers a heartfelt personal narrative, complete with tales of companionship and romance, but also delves into close calls, pranks, and near-disasters.

Simultaneously, Paul's account provides a rare glimpse into the golden age of transport, a bygone era that continues to captivate the imagination of people today.

Seeking guidance in bringing his book to life, he approached Dave Andrews, the Reader and Writer in Residence at Oswestry Library.

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He added: “I wrote this book in longhand originally as I had very little idea about computers.

“Dave has been a tremendous help to me and to my wife Jenny who has also done so much to support me.

“Dave has published a dozen books and has helped lots of writers. Without his knowledge and experience my book would never have got into print.’

Although the era Paul describes in his memoir has long vanished from our travel history, the enduring fascination with steam engines remains.

'Steaming Through Life' is available for purchase from various outlets or directly from Paul Evans via email at jennyevans1951@gmail.com, priced at £8.99.