The pottery industry was key for Burton-in-Lonsdale on the borders of Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria for nearly three centuries until its demise in 1944. This book tells the story of Richard Bateson, the last potter of Black Burton, a renowned thrower and teacher. It encapsulates the history and traditions of this lost trade; the personalities, the struggles, the humour alongside the hard work. The book is a grand contribution to the history of Burton, the history of pottery and the story of rural arts in transformation from an industrial to a more artistic endeavour. "The most comprehensive collection of history, stories, first-hand accounts and photographs we are ever likely to see... social history of a high order; rooted in its context, explored by those who really understand how it was." From the Foreword by Mark McKergow "(Richard) didn't like Bernard Leach's pots, because all Leach's pots had a wobble and Richard's never did." David Frith, Brookhouse Pottery

Lee Cartledge is a second-generation potter, working in partnership with his mother Kathy Cartledge at Bentham Pottery, North Yorkshire, a mile from Burton-in-Lonsdale. Lee learnt his craft from his mother, who had in turn been taught by Richard Bateson as well as other people. Lee has a degree in ceramics from Sunderland Polytechnic. Bentham Pottery has supplied its wares to galleries, craft shops, businesses and events; and has exhibited at various venues around the country, including the Victoria and Albert Museum. As well as making pots, Lee and Kathy's pottery throwing courses are greatly in demand and they have been teaching for many years. Lee lives with his wife Jenny and son Jed in the village of Ingleton nearby the pottery.