From the Act of Union to Anne Robinson, "Neighbours from Hell?" looks at English attitudes to the Welsh. Drawing on the author's experience of the comedy circuit, cartoons, the popular press and postcards; from "Tours of the Picturesque" to the novels of Niall Griffiths, the range of reference is as broad as the writing style is witty. Stereotypes explored include the Welsh character (shifty, oversexed or verbose); the Welsh language (dead, ugly or secret code for extremists), and the landscape. Mike Parker examines treacherous policy decisions sacrificing communities to reservoirs, forestry and military ranges. And he warns of future loss through blinkered tourist and property marketing. This is fine and funny polemic with a purpose, by the author of "The Rough Guide to Wales".
