About the Author

Sid Chaplin was born in Shildon, County Durham in 1916 when the great northern coalfields was its height and he died in 1986 when it was on its last legs. Through a writing career lasting 45 years he wrote seven critically acclaimed novels, four books of short stories and two books of essays, many of which appeared also in paperback and were published abroad. His stories inspired the iconic stage musical Close The Coalhouse Door and as well as being a prolific journalist, broadcaster and co-founder of Northern Arts, he also wrote for television, including the BBC series When The Boat Comes In. He was married to Rene Chaplin, who contributed to his work as well as his life in countless ways, and had three children - Gillian, Chris and Michael.