IN this so rapidly changing society in which we live, it could be argued that the study of history, especially local and social, becomes ever more relevant; in fact, to the cohesiveness and bonding of smallish local communities, it could be classed as essential.

A century ago — perhaps even 50 years — there was relatively little change regarding the families who inhabited these villages, especially here in the large, predominantly rural county of Devon.

Generations of the same families came and went and while the way of life, inevitably, changed, it was evolutionary — not revolutionary.

During the past quarter century, however, this has altered dramatically. For there is, even in the remotest hamlets and parishes of the county, a major turnover in population — folk coming, often from far afield, to 'escape to the country', as the title of a well-known television programme puts it.

Now, if they know nothing of the history and way of life of the parish into which they have just moved and have no desire or, importantly, no way of learning of such, then rarely will they assimilate into the community and the ties which bind so many rural areas together will be ever weaker; thus the vital relevance of publications such as 'The Story of Some 18th Century Buildings in Exbourne' — very stylishly produced under the auspices of Exbourne Local History Group and compiled and edited so professionally and sympathetically by Susan Rose and Gaye Langham.

Exbourne is known to be a village with a strong sense of common purpose and this book can only serve to tighten these vital bonds.

The format of the publication is based upon an in-depth study of the history of eight old properties within the parish.

The oldest featured is Buskin Farm, the existence of which can be traced back to 1329.

The history of the farm and house from that date until relatively present times is handled most adroitly in that it combines so much in terms of the passing of the centuries, the generations and the families.

The structure and nature of the houses, the way of life of those who lived in them, the changing world all around in terms of living conditions, social and religious attitudes — all are there in the crisp, informative, lucid script.

Also there is remarkable detail about everyday life, at times vividly portrayed. With the aid of extracts from descriptions penned at the time, the reader needs no great imagination to be able to form a mental picture of homes, people and ways of life long passed into history.

This is aided also by numerous photos — some back to the early 20th century — plus comprehensive records of everything from the cropping of farms to the folk who owned or worked upon them.

This is a book of quality in all directions; beautifully produced, it is written with erudition, perception and much affection for an ancient parish in the heart of Devon. For scholar, or casual reader, an essential buy.

'The Story of Some 18th Century Buildings in Exbourne', compiled and edited by Susan Rose and Gaye Langham is published by Exbourne Local History Group, priced at £5 per copy (plus £1.50 postage/packing). Available from Courtlyns, Exbourne, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 3SF.