Former Great Dunmow town clerk pens first novel

Great Dunmow’s former town clerk’s passion for history has seen him self-publish his own novel.

Following his retirement to Northern Ireland, Owen Wilson put pen to paper and created The Lost Duchy.

The book charts the turbulent relationship between two fictional small states – the Principality of Halberd and the Duchy of Sayesia – from the 1600s to the present day.

It touches on issues such as the oppression of smaller states by larger ones, religious tolerance and the ethics of monarchy.

Mr Wilson, pictured, drew on his experience of 40 years service in local government, holding office in churches and church-related organisation, and a passion for history when writing the book.

Mr Wilson, who was town clerk from 1992-2009, said: “My retirement has given me the time and freedom to write things other than official reports.

“I have had some articles commenting on current affairs published in the Northern Irish press and this success encouraged me to write The Lost Duchy.

“The characterisations and situations will be familiar to anyone with experience or an interest in politics, church affairs or public life generally.”

The novel is available from May & Brett Ltd on Dunmow High Street, for £5.