Born 1950. As I grew up only ever wanted to be a journalist. Achieved that as rookie reporter at Weekly Post Group of newspapers in NW London. Stayed some three years, left not entirely voluntarily. Worked briefly for builder father on building sites. Not temperamentally or physically suited to such work. In desperation found job as board-marker (now defunct position) in local William Hill betting shop. Eventually became betting shop manager. Moved into company press office. Stayed there for next 40+years becoming Media Relations Director, becoming known for creating unusual betting markets, and wrote numerous books, many on betting and racing - also on Dorothy Paget, eponymous William Hill, Screaming Lord Sutch. Wrote 'Vinyl Countdown' about my obession with vinyl records and record shops......managed to get Prostate Cancer, which inspired my up-coming (March 2021) title 'PROSTrATE CANCER' - required reading for all gentlemen of a certain age.....