I was honoured to be asked to write the history of the RNLi from its foundation in 1824. It has been fascinating research among an incredible treasure trove of stories and left me feeling humbled by the work of the many volunteers and staff who have made this such a great charity. 

Suitably on Battle of Britain Day my biography of Stanford Tuck is now published. There are already some very positive early reviews which are rewarding after a long book gestation.  

At last I can announce my forthcoming book, Stanford Tuck: Hero of the Battle of Britain, the Life of the Great Fighter Ace

Its has taken a bit longer than planned but I am delighted that it is now in the catalogue of Grub Street Publishing. Due for publication in September this year.

He has been a most interesting study.

My lockdown project was commissioned by Arcturus Publishing. I had to choose 50 naval battles and what an interesting task it was. It raised many questions starting with the obvious one of what defines a great battle?

Great Naval Battles includes the big name battles but also some of the unusual and less well known battles at sea over the centuries. It looks at big fleets, single ship actions, naming of battles, non battles, consequences of small actions, repercussions of big battles and, above all, considers who gets to tell the story.

Festivals of all types have been badly affected by the pandemic and the Fowey festival is one of the longest running literary festivals in Britain.

I am delighted to be giving a Zoom talk for them to raise funds. Book via their website and join me on Wednesday 10 February when I will be talking about Isambard Brunel and the SS Great Britain Musuem.   It includes some rare insights into the wonderful collection in Bristol.