One of the joys of writing in this mode is the researching I have to do. In an effort to get my details right, I comb through many volumes and innumerable web pages. I inevitably stumble on titbits that amuse and entertain me, as well as making me think of narrative possibilities.

I’d like to mention a few that were particularly helpful, as their contribution to my story was immense.

For help with the Edwardian period in general, I appreciated Roy Hattersley’s The Edwardians, as well as the extraordinary Lost Voices of the Edwardians by Max Arthur, which was a captivating collection of snippets from those who lived in these times, with details ranging from the mundane to the regal. Wonderful reading. In addition, The Big Shots by Jonathan Ruffer was important in adding to my coming to terms with the Edwardians and their ways.

For details about the 1908 Olympic Games and the Franco-British Exhibition, I was grateful for The First Olympic Games by Rebecca Jenkins. Full of lively anecdotes and tantalising photographs, this was extremely helpful.

For down to earth material about London, Roy Porter’s London: A Social History was invaluable, while Peter Ackroyd’s magisterial London, the Biography is unsurpassed in detail and scope.

The internet, of course, was a treasure trove. From actual street maps of 1908 London, to weather charts for the period, to the actual 330-page ‘illustrated review’ of the Franco-British exhibition, I had a wealth of material to work with. Edwardiana lives!

Naturally, the scholarship and diligence of all the writers and compilers I’ve listed cannot prevent a storyteller from getting things wrong. If I have, please accept that it is my fault, and not theirs.