A Suffolk publisher has launched the first instalment in a series of anthologies which hark back to a literary tradition popularised during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Justin Partyka and Bee Farrell, of backroad books, unveiled the first copies of The backroad Journal at Woodbridge’s Tide Mill Living Museum.

The collection features poetry and extracts from stories written by local and international contributors, and summons up the long tradition of ‘chapbooks’ – illustrated albums printed in millions across early modern Europe.

The first backroad Journal includes contributions by writers aged 16-96 and follows the theme of ‘discovery, encounter and experience’.

Among the 10 pieces is a personal account from the Battle of Arnhem.

Bee Farrell said: “Our main intention is to make literature fun and accessible. The project is ongoing and we’re aiming for three to four issues a year.

“We’re trying to demonstrate that stories can be thoughtfully and quite beautifully put together”

Issue number one is available at the Aldeburgh Bookshop and Woodbridge Library for £4.50.