Bromsgrove teacher's debut novel The Allotment Gang finally published

Steven Carter, 59, who grew up in Bromsgrove and attended South Bromsgrove High School in the 1970s and early 1980s, died suddenly in late 2022.

Now, three years on, his childhood friend Professor Ben Bennett and his brother Michael Carter have brought his long-awaited novel to life in what has been described as a ‘labour of love.’

Ben says many residents from that generation will remember him, and his connection to the area remained strong throughout his life.

“Steven was raised and educated in Bromsgrove, where his parents still live. The Allotment Gang is set in and around Bromsgrove, and his love of the town shines through," said Ben.

Although writing became a passion later in life, Steven spent his career as a history teacher and educator after studying at university.

He was known for his curiosity and wide-ranging interests, travelling, learning new skills and always seeking new experiences.

“He was larger than life and someone who was open to trying absolutely anything,” Ben added.

 “A man of great energy who improved others’ lives.”

Ben says Steven strongly believed in civic responsibility and giving back to the community, values that are reflected in his writing.

His novel, The Allotment Gang, is set around the well-known allotments in Chaddesley Corbett and follows a group of older allotment holders who discover they still have the energy to right a few wrongs in the world.

Narrated by a blind allotment worker named Peter, the story is said to blend humour with reflections on community life and fairness.

The book also features illustrations by Droitwich-based artist Rosie Philpott and includes many references to Bromsgrove and surrounding areas such as Hanbury.

Professor Bennett said publishing the novel on December 29, 2025, the anniversary of Steven’s passing, was a fitting tribute to his lifelong friend.

The Allotment Gang is available to buy on Amazon, with hopes that local bookshops will soon stock copies.