Synopsis

I have long suspected my life story was waiting to be written, and all I needed was the right time.  As it turned out, the right time was a bad time... but one that I got through by writing about it.

What sort of book is it?

I hope funny is the first word that springs to mind after reading it.  It is meant to be entertaining above anything else, and secondly, to be informative.  It also had to be done while I can still remember it all.  To get it down on paper was important, especially for close friends and family who don't know the full story.  I've done more than they realize, and had a damn good time on the way.  I like to think it could perhaps be a helpful book to anyone who finds themselves in dark times without a light at the end of the tunnel, to remind them that you never know what is around the next corner.  No matter what gets thrown at you, don't give up.

What does the book consist of?

Beginning with the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and the imminent collapse of a thirty two year marriage, I recall defining moments in my life by way of anecdotes and stories going back to growing up in the 50's to my teen years in the 60's.  There are memories of my school days and the early beat groups.  The first professional band in 1970 at the age of 19 paved the way for a long-haired rock band touring Europe with the likes of Thin Lizzy and Status Quo, and supporting many more such as Genesis, Joe Cocker, John Mayall's Bluesbreakers etc.  A six month contract to work in South Africa in 1973 evolved into seventeen eventful years and professional success there, years which are reflected in encounters with celebrities such as George Best, Rolf Harris and all three of the Goons.  Chapters recounting our ascent of the showbiz ladder to become the highest earning comedy show band in the country are interspersed with observations on various subjects, e.g. Political Correctness, disability (I am registered blind), living with Parkinson's disease and depression - but all done with a sense of humour.  Times of near starvation are matched with 5-star luxury.  Ill health is more than matched by adrenalin-powered elation.  Dates and people interweave throughout.  The story is still unfolding at the conclusion, as I describe the charity enterprise I started, and which now takes up my time, called "The Parkinson Project"

Should there ever be any financial reward from profits of the sale of this book, it will go to the Parkinson's Disease Society.

Where can I get a copy?

Books will be on sale at Morlings Music (London Road South), Anglia Drum Centre (St Benedicts, Norwich) & Desmond's Coffee Shop (London Road South)

The books are priced at £10.50, if you would like a copy in the post then please add £1.95 to the price.

Orders sent to/cheques made payable to:

'Keeping Time'

Basement Flat

135A London Road South

Lowestoft

Suffolk

NR33 0AX

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