Book Launch

Book 5. A Brief History of Battle Fire Station

The author recently paid a visit to the extremely interesting Battle Museum and found many very interesting items. but she was disappointed that there was no information regarding the Battle Fire Station so she wrote a short history which will be presented to the Battle Museum on 22nd August 2026

A Brief History of Battle Fire Station will be launched on 22nd August at the Battle Fire Station

Book 4. The Unknown Artist

This book is the author’s memoir of a famous artist. The book is completed but awaits copyright permission. Hopefully it will be in print for Christmas 2026

Book 3. The Alphabet Animal Adventures

This book is due to be launched in the autumn 2026 The Alphabet Animal Adventures is a picture story book that introduces the alphabet through a fun journey from A to Z, with each letter representing an animal or something connected with the story. Every page features a simple rhyme and a colorful illustration that helps readers recognize letters while learning a fun fact or characteristic about each animal. Designed for early learners and those with educational needs such as dyslexia. The book combines alphabet practice, animal recognition, and engaging read-aloud text to make learning both educational and enjoyable. Most of the short animal tales are based on the authors on animals and are true stories. Anyone who has memories of Quartermile Farm Battle or the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre London will I am sure enjoy this book and will probably meet up with some old animal friends.

Book 2. A Journey of Service was launched on 20th April 2026 at The Bexhill Museum & the De La Warr Pavilion Bexhill-on Sea

To mark the 50th Anniversary of Mary Joy Langdon becoming Britain’s first female firefighter in 1976, the book “A Journey of Service” will be launched on 20th April 2026 at the Bexhill Museum at 3pm -5pm. All profits from the sale of books will go to the ESF&RS Fire Cadet programme.

A Journey of Service is the inspiring memoir of Sister Mary Joy Langdon BEM, Britain’s first female operational firefighter in peacetime. In 1976, she challenged tradition and prejudice by joining the fire service at a time when frontline firefighting was exclusively male. Through vivid storytelling, Mary Joy recounts major incidents, rescues, and the courage required to serve in dangerous and demanding conditions.

Beyond the fire service, her life took an extraordinary path into religious life and pioneering equestrian therapy. As the founder of the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, she dedicated decades to supporting children and young people—many with disabilities—through the healing power of horses.

This book is a compelling testament to faith, perseverance, public service, and breaking barriers. It will appeal to readers interested in women’s history, firefighting, faith journeys, social care, equestrian therapy, and inspirational biographies.

A Journey of Service is a powerful true story of selfless dedication and unwavering commitment to community. Mary Joy Langdon reveals how a simple act of volunteering in a moment of need can open the door to a lifelong path of personal discovery and service to others.

The book takes us through a series of life‑changing experiences that illuminate her courage, her steadfast principles, and her deep faith. Through her passion for horses and her work in the fire service, she has shaped the lives of countless young people.

We may never fully grasp the number of individuals—both young and old—whose lives have been enriched by Mary Joy’s extraordinary journey, but this book offers a compelling glimpse into a truly remarkable legacy.

I had the pleasure of getting to know Mary Joy whilst I was the Chief Fire Officer of East Sussex and seeing the passion she still had for the service and for encouraging young people. She is still inspiring cadets and young women even now… nearly 50 years later.. and not only as a former firefighter, but with her strong faith, the work she has done with disadvantaged young people and horse riding.

Dawn Whittaker Retired CFO ESF&RS

Mary Joy’s story as Britain’s first female firefighter is profoundly inspiring. it not only highlights the significance challenges she overcame during her career in the fire service but also demonstrates how she transformed each obstacle into a positive trailblazing achievement, leaving a lasting legacy for many female firefighters who followed in her footsteps.

Mark Matthews Chief Fire Officer ESF&RS

1976 The year of a severe drought that led Mary Joy to becoming a firefighter

In Under the Same Moon, this book was launched in London on 28th April 2026 Sister Mary Joy Langdon, an Infant Jesus Sister, shares a deeply personal journey of faith and reflection through poetry.
From the quiet desert moments of Lent to the fullness of Easter joy, her words invite readers to slow down, to listen, and to find God in the rhythms of everyday life.
These poems are not confined by season — they speak to every soul seeking peace, gratitude, and communion with creation.

“Under the Same Moon” The book is now for sale in book shops, Amazon and eBay. If you wish to have a signed copy of the book this can be purchased directly from the author. mlangdon30@mlangdon