During the 1950s Britain’s merchant fleet was at the peak of a long mercantile history. The Red Ensign was flown with pride from the stern of mighty ocean liners and cargo vessels trading on a worldwide scale. This is the story of a steward aboard and ashore in far flung corners of the empire. His adventures are taken from real life incidents.
One early spring day in May 1954 the headmaster called the author, who was about to leave school, into his study for occupational guidance. All Neil knew was that the dreary nine to five existence in office or factory was not for him.
‘I want to be a steward in the Merchant Navy sir’. The head who was a good old boy shook his grey head. ‘What a waste.’
What followed was no waste; adventure was what he craved and adventure and romance aplenty called during the years that were the heyday of Britain’s proud merchant flag, the “Red Duster”. From Brazil to the Caribbean, to New Zealand and Australia where he now lives, the author will share with you a rollicking good yarn or two..
I was born in Pancras London 1939. I went to sea at the age of 16 in 1955. I lived in Mitcham Surrey until 1964. When I married an Australian lass I moved to Melbourne. I have worked as a Merchant Marine Steward, Forestry and bridge worker, cook, publican and salesman. Life at sea and travel to many lands inspired me to take up where my English teacher left off. My first effort at a novella was ‘Drifting Beneath the Red Duster’ and I’m now working on a new book. I would like to bring my grandfather’s history as a professional soldier from the age of 14 in 1892 Indian Army, Boer War, WW1, village postman and musician to life in my next book. I enjoy [...]
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