Downstream

In Downstream, Fort sets out by punt to explore what he describes, in a characteristically lovely phrase. as 'the concealed dimension' of water. Fort is a quintessentially English guide. A pleasingly unstructured ramble through the history of the Midlands.

Observer

For the river-lover, who likes to pause and look over bridges to see what is going on beneath (and alongside), and who likes to think of the past and the present continually flowing into the future, this book will be a delight.

The Spectator

Downstream is a double delight; a celebration of the River Trent itself and a humourous exploration of its historical, geographical, industrial and cultural curiosities.

Nottingham Evening Post

Fort is an amiable companion, whether investigating the river's pubs, observing its wildlife or finding an enviable freedom camped out on its banks

FT Magazine

Sitting contentedly in a backwater with a glass of Rioja or a fishing line, Fort bestows an almost lyrical beauty on rivers both actual and archetypal, whether explaining the carved intricacies of the watercourse of simply peering deep into its "flickering being".

Daily Telegraph

The story of the river that bubbles up throughout the narrative is told with the quiet authority of one who knows about the hidden flow beneath the riverbed. Well-referenced scholarship lies behind Fort's lively accounts of the history of this part of Middle England. Erudition with a light touch, cleverly interwoven with stories of pints downed, clean sheets and greasy breakfasts appreciated and characters met; what fun it all is and how impressive is the learning that lies behind it.

TLS

A well-observed travelogue. [Fort] has cleverly constructed the book to reflect the river's characteristics. Tom has written a charming book that cannot fail to give pleasure.

The Oldie

It is difficult not to like Fort, if not simply for his encyclopaedic knowledge of all things fluvial then for his wit and irony too. Once engaged it is difficult to escape. He has stirred a latent fondness for oxbow lakes and wandering streams.

Literary Review

A jolly, colourful, well-written travelogue, it is a good read

The Lady