Samphire Hoe was created with spoil from the Channel Tunnel.

But the history of the site goes back much further and is now the subject of a book.

“This location, the cliffs and the surrounding land have a fascinating history,” said White Cliffs Countryside Project officer Paul Holt.

With money from the Local Heritage Initiative of the National Lottery, the project’s Samphire Hoe team have produced the book called Shakespeare Cliff - A People’s History 1843 to 1973.

“The book starts in 1843, with the then largest man made explosion in the world, going on through the first Channel Tunnel attempt, the discovery of Kent’s coal, and the vital part Dover’s military defences played in the Second World War,” said Mr Holt.

“Yet whilst all this was happening there have always been people living, working, and spending time at the base of the cliffs. This short section of Kent’s coast, dominated by the distinctly angled Shakespeare Cliff is the setting for this book.

“The book gives a personal perspective of the history and the life of the area, a people’s history.”

Information has been gathered from museums and archives.

On Saturday many of the people who shared their memories and photographs or helped with the project gathered at the Dover Discovery Centre to celebrate the publication.

The book costs £4 and are available from the tea kiosk at Samphire Hoe, the White Cliffs Countryside Project Office at 6 Cambridge Terrace, the Dover Tourist Information Centre and Tyler’s bookshop in Deal.

Copies are also available by post for £1.50 postage and packing. Call Mr Holt on 01304 225649 for more details.