Local and family historians are often afraid to use numerical data (Statistics) in their research and writing. Yet numbers are an essential part of much historical work, obviously in population history but also in local studies of agriculture, industry and social history.

Counting People shows how amateur historians can use computers with appropriate programs to provide numerical illustrations of various historical topics as well as easing their researches. A final chapter covers research and publishing in local history.

The Bibliography provides advice on local historical studies in England and Wales and a full list of sources for population history in England and Wales as well as guidance on the use of computers in local studies.