A LOCAL historian has delved into the rich history of Harwich and Dovercourt in a new book.

Michael Rouse has produced the 96-page history entitled Harwich and Dovercourt Through Time.

It is packed with pictures showing how streets, buildings and areas have changed and explores the area’s hidden history.

Mr Rouse has produced a number of books on the East Anglian coastline including a book on nearby Clacton.

He said Harwich and Dovercourt had an air of the seaside of a time gone by.

“I am working my way around the coast in a series of books,” he said.

“This was an area I loved – Dovercourt and Harwich are fascinating areas."