Steve Haywood is a writer, journalist and filmmaker. He’s author of four previous waterways books – and a Harper Collins Crime Club novel. Previously a producer on BBC’s Newsnight and Panorama, in 1999 he was awarded a Royal Television Society award for his contribution to specialist journalism. He’s been a devoted inland waterways narrowboater for fifty years and has written a monthly column for the magazine Canal Boat for more than ten years.
With his acerbic, dry humour, Steve relates various brushes with other canal users, officialdom and extreme weather in amusing or alarming circumstances. Through it all, he paints a picture of a rapidly changing 'Middle England' and its frustrated populace... compelling reading not only for its wealth of fascinating history and entertaining anecdotes but also for its perceptive insight into a nation caught in turmoil. * Towpath Talk * For a spot of armchair escapism, we recommend losing yourself in Tales from the Tillerman: A Life-long Love Affair with Britain's Waterways, by waterman Steve Haywood, who urges readers to explore the waterways on their doorsteps. * The Daily Telegraph * Compelling reading not only for its wealth of fascinating history and entertaining anecdotes but also for its perceptive insight into a nation caught in turmoil. * Towpath Talk * A warm, nostalgic celebration of a lifestyle, an island and its often eccentric inhabitants. * Wanderlust * This book is a perfect read for anyone with a desire to explore more of the UK's river and canal network. * Practical Boat Owner * Steve recounts his adventures with humour, lots of local information, history and anecdotes * Practical Boat Owner * Haywood is always entertaining, and fans of his previous books certainly won't be disappointed with this new offering An accomplished writer... Mr Haywood is always entertaining, and fans of his previous books certainly won't be disappointed with this new offering. -- James Francis Fox * Waterways World * A charming history of Britain's inland waterways... nothing short of a love letter to our heritage in all its eccentric glory. * Bury and West Suffolk Magazine * A charming, witty tribute to Britain's canals, rivers and countryside - one that will have you itching to explore the waterways yourself. * Lifeboat Magazine *