A NEW book takes a look back at the hundreds of crimes and accidents that plagued Dudley during the Victorian era.

Tales of Old Dudley - A Catalogue of Crime, Accident & Misfortune, was penned by Paul Robinson and details explosions, fires and floods, as well as mishaps on the roads, canals and railways.

Separate chapters delve deeper into murders, suicides, robberies and public health issues.

The 58-year-old, who has published five other history books, said: "I was born and raised in the Black Country and have always had a strong interest in the history of the area.

"While history books can have a reputation for being dull, I'm sure the stories in my book will prove eye-opening for some.

"It covers murders, suicides and other violent crime, accidents involving trains, trams and horse-drawn vehicles, riots and strikes and a multitude of accidents in the mines and factories.

"Most of these incidents have not appeared in print since they were reported in the newspapers of the day."

The retired optician, who now lives in Coven, Staffordshire, said the book took a year to complete due to extensive research.

It is available online at www.lulu.com.

Alternatively, it can be purchased from Saturday Books in Tower Street, Dudley.