Local author and illustrator Di draws on her love of Ashby in new book dedicated to the town
By Graham Hill 11th Jun 2025
A local author and illustrator has launched a book of drawings depicting familiar scenes from Ashby de la Zouch.
'Benchmarking Ashby de la Zouch' has been compiled by Di Lorriman and is on sale now.
The book includes both sketches and artwork centred on some of Ashby's best-known areas such as the Bath Grounds and Market Street.
Di launched the book at the newly re-opened Tourist Information Centre in North Street.
She describes it as 'a unique guidebook to some more interesting places, people and events in Ashby over the last few years. It includes something for everyone who lives in or enjoys visiting our town.'
Di told Ashby Nub News: "I thought the book might only be interesting to local people, but there's a greater interest because of the artwork.
"I'm pleased about that. I live in the town and I'm very much inspired by Ashby.
"The book idea started off in lockdown - we couldn't go anywhere at the time, could we?
"For years, I'd sat around town drawing things - and while we were in lockdown, I suddenly realised I was sitting on benches, 'benchmarking' Ashby.
"The book contains some of those drawings, plus I've added a few of the commissions I've done locally, such as at Conkers and the Ashby Leisure Centre.
"There are also drawings of buildings in the town such as Lil Bo's Deli as it is now, and as it was back in time, it was once a candlemaker's.
"It's important to remember that the shops we see today are in buildings that are hundreds of years old and have a great history.
"There's also quite a bit on the Bath Grounds, including some 'live' drawings of people I completed quite recently.
"I've also included some drawings of Ashby Castle that are a little different. There is a drawing from the Peace Garden looking to the Venture Theatre, but there's also some humour in there as well."
Di also said the book also contains references to her background in special educational needs
She added: "There are signs in the corner of the pages that can be flicked through and make the word 'welcome'.
"That's interesting because, one I wanted to get people talking, and two, to show that there are other ways of communicating.
"In Ashby Museum, I have signs and symbols with all of the pictures in there."
• 'Benchmarking Ashby de la Zouch' can be bought from the Ashby Tourist Information Centre at the Library in North Street.
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