Samuel Ryder author in St Albans (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Samuel Ryder author in St Albans

4:27pm Thursday 2nd September 2010 in

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AUTHOR Peter Fry visited St Albans today to promote his book on Samuel Ryder, one of the most important figures in the city's history.

Mr Fry, whose book was published in hardback in March, signed copies of the new paperback edition and spoke to readers at St Albans Town Hall.

His book recounts how Samuel Ryder ran a successful seed business in St Albans, founded the biannual golf competition between Europe and the USA that bears his name, and played a major role in the political, religious and sporting life of the city in the early 20th century.

He said: "Samuel had a unique character - he had generosity, compassion, determination, ingenuity and a keen sense of humour.

"The experience of his early days in Manchester brought empathy with the poor, and ensured working conditions for his employees that were years ahead of the time."

Copies of his book will be presented to members of both teams in this year's Ryder Cup, to be played at Celtic Manor near Newport, south Wales, from October 1 to 3.