Shire offers low-priced, concise non-fiction paperbacks on a wide range of subjects.
Founded in 1962 by John Rotheroe, the company was for many years based in Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire.
The first book published by Shire was Discovering East Suffolk, a 24-page guide to the county through a series of five motoring routes and a gazetteer of the main towns and villages.
It was given away to visitors via coach operators, local churches and tourist information points.
The book was successful and when it was realized that many of the copies given away were being resold it was decided to sell the second edition, and this set the template for the future of Shire.