In the first half of the twentieth century, and in the years following the Second World War, Leamington and Warwick flourished as industrial centres. This book is a nostalgic return to this golden era when industry was at the very heart of urban identity and community spirit. It was an era when profits were high, competition was strong, and men and women were proud to work for their employers. Contrary to popular belief, forty or fifty years ago there were more applicants for job vacancies than there are today; certainly in my own case I was one of forty applicants! In those days you were usually trained for the job you were applying for and would have got your qualifications through night school or apprenticeships. There was a great camaraderie in the workplace at this time, and friendships made here usually lasted a lifetime. Sadly, times changed, companies became hard-pressed, and a way of life was lost but not forgotten. Leamington and Warwick Disappearing Industries reflects the charisma and the pride of working for the companies which contributed so much to the industrial history of the towns. I hope you enjoy the happy memories.