Overview
- First published on 27 August 1955, the book grew out of Sir Hugh Beaver’s 1954 commission to Norris and Ross McWhirter to settle pub disputes with authoritative facts.
- The franchise now spans annual editions, television and online databases in more than 100 countries, with total sales reported at over 155 million copies.
- Anniversary features highlight emblematic entries such as the fastest tortoise, the smallest woman, and the fastest motorized pram to illustrate the brand’s quirky appeal.
- Editor-in-chief Craig Glenday notes the title has showcased extraordinary feats of strength, skill and endurance from around the world and aims to continue doing so.
- The history also records loss, as co-founder Ross McWhirter was killed in a 1975 IRA attack in London.