Pick Of The Crop

Pick of The Crop is a historical novel, partly based on actual events researched from newspapers and letters written in the 1870's.

             Imagine being described in your local paper as the 'Lowest Class of Person England had ever produced.' This is exactly how the agricultural labourers of the 1870's were considered by the Upper Classes and it's certainly how the workers felt.

              Alfred Simmons, a newspaper owner sets out to be an unexpected supporter, determined to take on the seemingly hopeless challenge to change their fortunes. With a group of like minded philanthropists he forms a union that represents the labourers. Their struggle is hard and long as they battle against Landowners, The House of Commons, The House of Lords, The Armed Forces, The Church, a rival union and even harmful infiltration from their own union members. Their efforts are made even more difficult due to the scattered existence of the farm workers.

              Alfred's involvement puts him in danger and in direct conflict with the powerful Upper Classes and worse still his own newspaper investors. To complicate his life further he finds he is falling in love with a woman who almost causes his and the union's downfall. Faced with financial and personal ruin Alfred embarks on a radical course of action which reverberates across the world, shakes the foundations of nineteenth century society and threatens the survival of some of England's most ancient industries.