Peterborough in Cambridgeshire is well known for its magnificent mediaeval cathedral and as today is one of the UK’s fastest growing cities but its history stretches back many centuries, from its unique status as the Soke of Peterborough originally considered part of of Northamptonshire through to its development in the 19th and 20th centuries as the largest brick producer in the country. Much has been written about its historical past but in this book local historians June and Vernon Bull explore the less well known episodes and characters in the city’s history through the centuries from its earliest days. They reveal how kings came to venerate St Oswald’s arm, how the city witnessed the last public execution in Britain and was the last place to have the riot act read, the park made of bricks, the city’s oldest business, the sexton who buried two queens, wartime visits by Hollywood legends and many more secret stories.With tales of remarkable characters, unusual events and tucked away historical buildings, Secret Peterborough will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of Peterborough.