Stockton-on-Tees was the site of a summer residence of the bishops of Durham and the town was long dominated by the bishop's palace until its demolition in 1652 on the orders of Parliament. Prosperity followed the departure of the bishops-the stones from their castle were used to refurbish buildings in Castlegate, Silver Street and Finkle Street-and the 18th century saw Stockton flourish as a port and a commercial centre. There is no doubting the strength of local pride among its population and this book captures the town's unique atmosphere.