The launch of The Radley Lakes Story took place at Unit 24 in Bury Street this evening (12/3/2025).

All six authors, the two editors, and other contributors were there to celebrate the book’s release. Roger Thomas, joint editor, together with the Chair of the Radley Lakes Trust, introduced the book. It tells the story of how Radley Lakes near Abingdon was transformed from gravel pits into a wildlife haven.

A key section of the book focuses on the “Save Radley Lakes” campaign from 2005 to 2008, when local residents fought to stop two lakes from being filled with coal ash from Didcot A Power Station. The campaign succeeded, and RWE npower, the site’s owners, gave the lakes to a wildlife trust to protect them. Today, Radley Lakes is a place where people can enjoy nature and peaceful walks.

The book is beautifully produced and illustrated and covers the area’s history, the “Save Radley Lakes” campaign (told by Marjorie White), and includes chapters on the plants and animals found at the lakes (co-written by David Guyoncourt).

The book is dedicated to Basil Crowley, who led the “Save Radley Lakes” campaign. Proceeds from sales will go to the Radley Lakes Trust, which supports the site, now cared for by The Earth Trust. Copies are available at Abingdon bookshops and the Abingdon Museum.