THE history of Winchester’s oldest suburb is the subject of a new book out this month.

Hyde: From Dissolution to Victorian Suburb published by Victorian Heritage Press is the result of four years research by Dr Chris Grover, an academic at Winchester University.

Hyde has played a key role in the history of Winchester starting from the foundation of Hyde Abbey, the final resting place of Alfred the Great.

Later, social institutions like the Bridewell, Hyde Abbey School and the Refuge for Penitent Women were established.

The book focusses on the effects that politics, economics and social change had on the small community of Hyde, looking at a number of influential people and places.

Dr Grover, a senior lecturer in the University’s Faculty of Business, Law and Sport, said: “There is a secret part of Winchester which is steeped in politics, religious persecution and family struggles. The modern shape of Hyde can be traced to the deeds of a few powerful families and I am delighted that one of their descendants is able to attend the launch.”

Dr Grover will give a free public lecture about this period in Hyde’s history at the launch at Winchester Business School, West Downs, Romsey Road, on November 28.

The event will be attended by Torquil Sligo-Young, a direct descendent of William Barrow Simonds, MP for Winchester from 1865 to 1880.

Copies of books will be presented to representatives of local organisations who have helped with the preparation of the book, sponsored by The William Allen Young Charitable Trust.