Prestonian author Keith Johnson has released a new book titled ‘Preston Murders and Misdemeanours.’

It is over 30 years since he wrote his first book ‘Chilling True Tales of Old Preston’, which was shortly followed by two more Preston-based tales.

Keith has written many stories about the social history of Preston, and has researched many aspects of the city.

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In some respects, he has written an ‘A to Z’ of Preston’s history throughout his works.

Keith moved away from the spine tingling tales he began with, although throughout the decades he has unearthed many more terrifying tales from the past.

The author was often asked when a further collection of ‘Chilling True Tales’ would be released – and much to his audience’s delight, it is available now.

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Keith said: “My journey of discovery took me down so many different avenues and I learnt about astonishing achievements, great endurance and effort and the passion and pride of Preston folk.

“Hopefully this collection of tales will transport you back through the annals of murder and misdemeanours in Preston and the neighbourhood.

“These are after all a chronicle of real life events that occupied the courts and brought criminals to justice, and they look back at the mishaps and
misfortune that befell local folk.

“Judges and justices, coroners and court clerks, barristers and briefs all played their part from times when justice was swift and often delivered harshly with unflinching retribution.

“Many of the crimes committed were carried out by those in liquor who once they sobered up realised the folly of their behaviour.

“These tales tell of some of those people who were murdered, poisoned, mistreated or cheated and they deserve our sympathy. It is apparent that those who handed out the punishments had duty in mind and the judges were unflinching in doing so.

“The book also gave me the opportunity to tie up a few loose ends from my earlier ‘Chilling True Tales’ series as my continued research unearthed more mystery.”

Preston Murders and Misdemeanours, published by Amberley, is available to buy here.

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