A SLICE of contemporary Tavistock captured in sparkling monochrome by West Devon photographer John Curno was celebrated at the Bedford Hotel, Tavistock on Friday. The event marked the launch of ?Tavistock ? A Photographic Portrait of England?s Premier Market Town?, a collection of some 260 black and white images of both the town and its residents. The book was commissioned by Philip Davies, owner of the Bedford Hotel, and publisher of the book. He harnessed the talents of Drewsteignton photographer John Curno and Alex Mettler from Tavistock who wrote the text and edited the publication. Speaking before invited guests, who included the mayor of Tavistock Jenny Metcalf, Mr Davies said, as a newspaper publisher, he had ?always been deeply moved by the power and impact? of monochrome photography. ?I hope that in years to come, historians and residents alike will be fascinated by our unique photographic record of everyday life in England?s premier market town. ?What has surprised me has been the number of changes, and the speed of these changes, which have been recorded in Tavistock in just one year.? Mr Davies thanked Alex Mettler for ?being so meticulous with his editorial input? and John Curno for ?capturing for posterity, a unique slice of contemporary Tavistock life.? With the print run of just 1,000 copies Mr Davies said it was a limited edition as there would not be a reprint. The book costs £19.95 and is available at the Bedford Hotel and Bookstop in Market Street, Tavistock. Copies can be ordered on (01822) 613221.
