A Happy 2009 to everyone!!!


I'm an unconvention​al person who has stopped running with the herd. I have little interest in the usual things, looks, money or status, and I am trying to find a meaningful place for myself in a world of many absurdities.​

I am trying to expand my horizons (and rediscover a few old ones) after being stuck in a rut for a while.

I am a writer and historian, returning to history writing after a dry spell...

Just interested in ideas - not looking for anything else

Walking - especially by the coast or by a lake; interesting buildings - castles, churches, lighthouses,​ windmills; nature - especially swans and ducks; reading, researching and writing history; art, museums and art galleries, concerts.

Charity work - fundraising and other help for several British animal welfare, conservation​ and hospice charities (PDSA, WWT, RSPCA, RSPB and many others).

Other things: mustard, strawberries​, cherries, asparagus, a good whisky (especially Laphroaig), more good whisky, cheese, tea.

I like most things over the last thousand years, from Gregorian chants to blues and rock. My current favourites are Howlin' Wolf and Thomas Tallis.

Most European cinema
Buster Keaton
The occasional good ghost or horror story (The Wicker Man, The Woman in Black) or comedy

No blockbuster-​type films and nothing with car chases or lots of shooting

I love the off switch...

Most European literature