THE British Library has acquired the archives of a famous writer and essayist who lived and was inspired by his Wormingford estate.
Ronald Blythe, or Ronnie as he liked to be called, was an Acton-born writer who wrote more than 80 books.
Mr Blythe left his Wormingford estate, including a 16th century farmer's house, to the Essex Wildlife Trust which is currently raising funds so the estate can inspire future generations.
The British Library has now acquired Ronnie’s 100-year archive of writing.
The collection includes workbooks, index cards, and papers which show his research for his 1969 novel Akenfield which fictionalised Suffolk village life and became a global bestseller.
Mr Blythe briefly served in the Second World War before it was decided he was unfit for service.
When he returned to England, he took up post as a reference librarian in Colchester Library.
He taught himself through reading and friendships such as John Nash, the founding member of the Colchester Arts Society, and Christine Nash who he met at Colchester Library.
Ian Collins, Blythe’s biographer and literary executory, said Ronnie had an incredible memory from childhood.
This meant he had detailed index notes from his hundreds of interviews of people which were to give truth to his novels.
Collins’ biography revealed Ronnie had a strong Anglian faith, was very sociable, and had gay relationships despite living in an era when homosexuality was outlawed.
Speaking to the Guardian Mr Collins said: “Ronnie was endlessly kind, endlessly gentle and he’s endlessly tough.
“It’s an important archive for Britain. He was a humble person but he knew his worth and he always said his papers should go to the British Library. It’s such a rich archive, he is a writers’ writer but also the writer for every person – you can recommend Ronald Blythe to anybody.”
