A new book on co-ops traces the rise of co-operativism from 1844 to the present. Written by Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-ops UK A short history of co-operation and mutuality is a clear, concise and fascinating history of a movement which can bring communities to life in a way private joint stock companies simply cannot.

The author notes the Quaker roots and influence on the movement, quoting the Quaker view that “the greatest resource is friendship”. The book uses an iconic Quaker image – the two mules – for the front over.

Local co-ops and community-benefit societies which individual Quakers in Bath have worked to help develop in recent years include Bath & West Community Energy, The Bell Inn and Bath City FC.

A short history of co-operation and mutuality can be downloaded for free from Co-ops UK.