Telford, Man of Iron, is the first full modern biography of Telford who became the ICE’s first President in 1818. The well-attended launch event was held fittingly in the ICE Council Chamber in Westminster where Thomas Telford's portrait holds centre stage.
The author, Julian Glover, a former speechwriter for David Cameron carried out much of his research in ICE's archives. In addressing the distinguished audience of MPs, journalists and senior ICE colleagues, the author said: "I am very grateful to the Institution for allowing me to delve into the archives and particular thanks to the archivist for guiding me through all the information. I must also thank David Cameron for allowing me time off from writing his speeches to do all the research."
The biography has won praise from reviewers across the media sheet press, and has sparked off a debate about who is Britain's greatest ever engineer. Last week Telford, Man of Iron was serialised as BBC Radio 4's book of the week. The omnibus edition is available on the BBC iPlayer until 7 March.
Image: ICE President Tim Broyd with the book’s author Julian Glover.
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