Steven Smith was born in Coatbridge in Scotland. He was brought up in Whitley Bay, before briefly moving to London. He then moved to the seaside town of Brighton, where he was first receiver recognition for his hairdressing skills. Steven moved to America for eight years, working in Beverly Hills, and on his return to London in the late 90s, rose to fame working in fashionable Knightsbridge. He has styled model Katie Price, actress Denise Welch, David Hasselhoff and the cast of Baywatch. Steven had his own column in The Sun newspaper advising on hair and beauty, and was a regular on the Lorraine Kelly show, transforming GMTV viewers into their favourite stars. He made over Lorraine herself, transforming her into movie legend, Elizabeth Taylor.
Steven has been a freelance writer for the last ten years, combining showbiz interviews and travel with his eye for styling. He has written two books: Powder Boy, looking at the dark side of showbiz, and an autobiography: It shouldn't happen to a hairdresser, offering a witty and sad look at his life. He is currently penning a third book to be titled Happy in Chennai.
He has a monthly column, Tales of a single middle-aged gay man that looks at not only the light side of gay life, but also darker aspects such as rape, addiction, and chem-sex. Steven also runs his own beauty/aesthetic blog and is a patron of Anna Kennedy online; a charity that not only supports the autism community but educates the public about those that live with autism.
On Saturday the 11 October, the spotlight shines on extraordinary talent as Autism’s Got Talent takes centre stage at the Mermaid Theatre in London. Organised by the award-winning charity Anna Kennedy Online, this uplifting and inclusive event brings together over 24 performers from around the world, including the United States, for an evening that promises inspiration, celebration, and unforgettable entertainment.
With doors opening at 6:00 PM and the show starting at 7:00 PM, this year’s event is set to be one of the biggest yet — showcasing not only incredible talent but also the power of inclusion and acceptance.
Dr Anna Kennedy OBE
A Stage That Changes Lives
Unlike traditional talent shows, Autism’s Got Talent isn’t about competition — it’s about celebration. It provides a rare and empowering platform for performers who are autistic or neurodivergent, allowing them to share their unique voices, stories, and creative gifts.
Founded by autism ambassador and campaigner Anna Kennedy OBE, the event was born out of a desire to challenge stereotypes, raise awareness, and offer meaningful opportunities for those often overlooked in mainstream media and entertainment.
“This is not just a show — it’s a movement,” says Anna Kennedy. “Autism’s Got Talent is about breaking down barriers and giving people a chance to shine. Every performer brings something special to the stage, and the audience leaves inspired and moved.”
From singers and dancers to poets, musicians, magicians and comedians, the show highlights the diverse range of talentwithin the autism community. Many of the performers have never had the chance to appear on a professional stage before — making the experience deeply personal and empowering.
Award winning presenter Aston Avery
Star-Studded Presenters & World-Class Venue
Hosting this year’s spectacular event are award wining Gateway DJ, Aston Avery, and youth theatre organiser PhilBarnett , a dynamic trio known for their charisma, warmth, and dedication to the autism community. Their presence helps create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where performers feel supported and celebrated.
The iconic Mermaid Theatre — a central London venue known for its stunning acoustics and accessibility — is the perfect backdrop for the evening. Its state-of-the-art stage and welcoming environment make it ideal for a show of this scale and heart. Visit: www.the-mermaid.co.uk
What to Expect
With over two dozen acts from across the UK, Europe, and America, audiences can expect an exciting mix of performances filled with energy, passion, and originality. No two acts are alike, and every moment of the show is infused with authenticity and emotion.
The audience is encouraged to cheer, clap, and support every performer — creating an atmosphere of celebration rather than judgment. The focus is on ability, creativity, and joy.
Whether it’s a powerful vocal performance, an emotional poem, a jaw-dropping dance routine, or a surprise act that defies genre, every artist takes the stage with courage and pride.
Anna Kennedy and her dedicated team behind Anna Kennedy on line
More Than Just a Show
Proceeds from the event go directly to Anna Kennedy Online, a UK charity that provides vital support, resources, and advocacy for individuals and families diagnosed by autism. The charity works year-round to raise awareness, run workshops, support networks, and create opportunities like Autism’s Got Talent.
“This event shows what’s possible when we give people the space and support to thrive,” says Anna Kennedy. “It’s about changing perceptions, building confidence, and proving that being different is something to be celebrated.”
In a world where neurodiverse individuals often face barriers to expression, Autism’s Got Talent offers something truly special: a night where every voice matters, every performance is met with applause, and talent is judged not by convention — but by heart.
Whether you’re a long-time supporter of the autism community or simply looking for an evening of uplifting entertainment, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
In particular, Anna Kennedy on Line would like to thank their sponsors Mermaid Theatre, The Harley Street Skin Clinic, Orange Orchid, Talem Law, SEND Tutoring, and SEN Tutoring for their invaluable support. Without you, we simply could not continue to do what we do.
In a world where many talk about what they might do someday, there are others who quietly get on with it—people who take action, push boundaries, and in doing so inspire those around them. Artist and photographer Annemarie Bickertonbelongs firmly in the latter category.
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, Bickerton swapped her camera for boxing gloves, stepping into the ring at The Troxy in London for an Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) charity event. The evening brought together novice boxers from across the capital, each of them having undergone ten weeks of intensive training, with the dual aim of testing themselves and raising money for good causes.
For Bickerton, that cause was the Pink Ribbon Foundation, a UK charity that provides financial support to organisations helping those affected by breast cancer. It was a natural fit: she has previously worked with the foundation, staging her acclaimed “BustOut” exhibition at the Firepit Gallery at the O2. That exhibition combined bold visual art with advocacy, raising awareness and funds in equal measure.
This time, however, the setting was very different. The Troxy’s historic stage was transformed into a boxing arena, the atmosphere electric as friends, family, and supporters packed into the venue. Bickerton’s match ended officially as a draw, though audience members were quick to call it a clear win on her part.
The result, though, tells only part of the story. What makes Bickerton’s achievement stand out is the journey that led her there. For ten weeks, she trained with discipline and determination, rising early, attending gruelling sessions, and absorbing the technical and mental demands of boxing. “It was not natural for me at all,” she admitted beforehand. Yet she persevered, embodying the UWCB ethos of ordinary people doing extraordinary things for charity.
Bickerton’s decision to take up boxing was not made in isolation. She had first introduced the sport to her son, who lives with autism, as a way to build confidence and resilience. Facing bullying at school, he found empowerment in the discipline and structure of training. Inspired by his progress, Bickerton decided to follow suit. “Lead by example” became more than a phrase—it became a lived reality.
Those who know her were not surprised. Bickerton has long been recognised for her willingness to tackle challenges head-on, whether in her artistic practice or personal life. As a photographer and artist, she has built a reputation for bold, thought-provoking work that often blends beauty with social commentary. As a mother, she has consistently sought opportunities that empower her son and others facing adversity.
Her move into boxing might seem like a departure, but in many ways, it continues a consistent theme: using creativity, courage, and perseverance to make an impact.
Events like UWCB are not only about individual achievement but also about collective contribution. Since its founding, the organisation has raised millions of pounds for charities across the UK, with participants from all walks of life. Bickerton’s fight was one of dozens staged that evening, each carrying a personal story and a charitable purpose. Together, they highlighted the power of community fundraising through unconventional means.
For Bickerton, the fight capped months of hard work and represented more than just a physical test. It was a statement about resilience, visibility, and the importance of action. “Annemarie is a great example of what’s right in this world,” said one supporter. “She doesn’t just talk—she does.”
That ethos has earned her admiration not only from those close to her but from a wider circle who see in her story a reminder of what determination can achieve. In an age when so much energy is spent on words, Bickerton’s actions—whether through art, activism, or sport—speak louder.
As the cheers faded at the Troxy, the impact of her fight extended far beyond the ring. Funds had been raised for a vital cause, awareness had been heightened, and a powerful example had been set for her son and others: that courage comes in many forms, and that sometimes the greatest victories are not about titles or trophies but about showing up, standing tall, and refusing to back down.
With her gloves now set aside, Bickerton returns to her life as an artist, mother, and advocate. Yet the echoes of that night in the ring remain—a testament to the fighting spirit of a woman who refuses to be defined by limits.
We’ve all witnessed the sudden outpouring of grief, tributes, and public mourning for Charlie Kirk. Before I get the inevitable backlash, let me be clear: the loss of any human life is a tragedy. Death, no matter the circumstances, is not something to celebrate. But that doesn’t mean we must ignore the uncomfortable truth about who a person was and the impact they had on the world around them.
Anyone who dies while promoting hatred—whether it be racism, homophobia, misogyny, or transphobia—has left behind a legacy of division. And while it’s wrong to revel in someone’s death, it’s equally wrong to pretend that their life was lived in service of goodness, compassion, or truth when the opposite is much closer to reality.
There’s an old saying: “Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.” I am one hundred percent against cancel culture. Silencing voices and driving them underground only makes them more dangerous; it allows toxic ideologies to fester where they cannot be challenged or confronted. We need to keep our eyes on the people who preach hate, not push them into the shadows.
But here’s my question: where is the same level of public mourning for the innocent children killed in American school shootings? Where are the candlelit vigils, the elaborate civil ceremonies, the hours of televised tributes for those whose only “crime” was going to class in a nation that has normalised mass shootings? Where is the nationwide grief for the everyday victims of America’s gun obsession?
The outpouring for Charlie Kirk feels performative—dramatic, over the top, and completely misplaced. I scrolled through social media and was struck by the sheer number of posts about him. Yet for the children lost in Uvalde, in Sandy Hook, in countless other tragedies, there was silence after the first wave of news coverage. No weeks-long grief, no cultural pause for reflection. The contrast is staggering.
Let’s get something straight: Charlie Kirk did not save lives. He didn’t cure HIV, discover a vaccine for the common cold, or dedicate his life to lifting people out of poverty. He built a platform by spreading fear, misinformation, and divisiveness. To canonise him now as if he were some kind of saint is not just dishonest, it is deeply disrespectful to those he harmed with his rhetoric.
And what exactly was “Christian” about his teachings? Jesus—let’s remember, a brown-skinned, Arabic-speaking man from the Middle East—preached love, compassion, and radical inclusion. He spent his time with outcasts, outsiders, and the marginalised: fishermen, tax collectors, a prostitute, and a ragtag group of twelve unmarried men. The essence of his teaching was simple: love thy neighbour as thyself.
Religion, like a gun, can be used for protection and peace when in the right hands. But in the wrong hands, it becomes a weapon of hate and fear. Charlie Kirk chose the latter. He wielded scripture selectively, twisting it into a justification for exclusion rather than inclusion, for condemnation rather than compassion. That is not godly—it is a betrayal of the very faith he claimed to represent.
What baffles me most is why so many people queued up to debate him, as though he were some kind of great theological authority. He wasn’t. He was poorly informed, cherry-picking passages of scripture to suit his agenda, ignoring centuries of scholarship, and offering nothing more than the shallowest of arguments. This was not a man who should be celebrated as a thinker, let alone a prophet.
I do feel for his family. Losing a loved one is painful, no matter who they were. I wish he had used his influence for good—to inspire, to uplift, to build bridges instead of walls. Instead, he chose narcissism, self-promotion, and hate. That is the legacy he leaves behind.
The most ungodly thing of all is an ill-informed Christian who believes their interpretation of the Bible gives them licence to judge others. Freedom of speech must exist for both sides, but so too must accountability. Words matter. Influence matters. And when someone spends their life spreading division, we cannot in good conscience rewrite history just because they are no longer here.
Yes, love thy neighbour. Yes, treat others with compassion. But let us also extend that compassion to the innocent children gunned down in schools, to the victims of bigotry, to those whose lives were cut short by violence. If Charlie Kirk is to receive public mourning, then surely those who lived with love in their hearts, rather than hate, deserve at least as much.
Let’s be honest: a woman’s hair is her crown and glory. It’s part of her identity, her confidence, her style. And when it comes to royalty, that crown is both literal and symbolic. Princess Catherine—Kate, as we fondly call her—always manages to look spectacular. She carries herself with elegance and dignity, and despite facing health struggles, she continues to shine as my favourite member of the Royal Family.
So why, then, does the we feel the need to dissect every strand on her head? Recently, Kate decided to lighten her hair a touch. Not platinum, not peroxide blonde—just a soft, subtle lift. Hardly headline material, yet suddenly it’s splashed across the front pages. Is this really news?
I say this as someone who spent years as a celebrity hairdresser: hair is deeply personal. It’s not just style, it’s self-expression, sometimes even reinvention. I actually admire Kate for trying something new under the relentless glare of the cameras. Personally, I think she suits brunette best—but that’s beside the point. The point is, it’s her hair, her choice, and she looks radiant either way.
But what left me utterly flabbergasted was what happened next. A few days later, she attended a women’s rugby match with her hair pulled back in a ponytail—practical, appropriate, perfectly normal. And would you believe it? That too became a headline. A ponytail! Honestly, are we that short of news?
It makes me wonder about our priorities. Wars are raging, the cost of living is biting, families are struggling—and yet we’re fixated on whether a princess wears her hair up or down. Surely, we can do better.
Here’s what really matters: Kate represents grace, resilience, and positivity at a time when good news is hard to come by. She continues to serve, smile, and inspire, even while facing challenges of her own. She is a mother, a wife, a public figure, and a future queen—and she handles it all with poise. That deserves admiration, not nit-picking.
So, my view is simple. Leave Kate’s hair alone. Celebrate the woman, not the ponytail. Applaud her courage, her elegance, her humanity. Hair grows; styles change—but the strength of character she shows every day? That’s what truly deserves the front page.
Why Do So Many Smart Women Fall Under the Spell of Con Men?
It’s not about weakness—it’s about hope, empathy, and the universal desire to be loved.
Before we begin, let’s be clear: this isn’t unique to women. Men, too, can fall victim to manipulation, deceit, and what we might call a “love con.” Yet it remains striking how often we see bright, accomplished women—lawyers, doctors, business leaders, and artists—caught in the webs spun by controlling, Svengali-type men.
This was brought home to me recently while watching Love Con: Revenge on Netflix. The series exposes the astonishing ways charismatic fraudsters charm their way into people’s lives, leaving devastation behind. The victims are not naïve or unintelligent. Quite the opposite—they’re usually sharp, capable, and worldly. Yet even they are drawn into the con, sometimes for years.
The Psychology of the “Love Con”
Why does this happen? Why do intelligent women—women who can negotiate boardrooms, run companies, and juggle families—become vulnerable when love enters the picture? Is there, as cynics suggest, something in female nature that makes women more susceptible when romance is involved?
I don’t believe it’s about weakness. If anything, it’s about strength—and hope. Many women are deeply empathetic, nurturing, and generous. They are also willing to give people the benefit of the doubt. These qualities are admirable, yet they are the very traits manipulators exploit. Con men mirror back what their victims long to see: affection, stability, the promise of being cherished. By the time the illusion cracks, the emotional investment is so deep that leaving feels impossible.
Neuroscience sheds light here. Falling in love floods the brain with dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin—the same chemicals associated with addiction. Under their influence, judgment clouds and red flags fade. Intelligence doesn’t disappear; it’s simply overwhelmed by biology.
The Celebrity Trap
Even women with power, influence, and entire teams of advisors aren’t immune. How many times have we seen successful actresses or performers introduce a new partner, only to announce within months that he is now their manager? Management is a skilled profession requiring experience and industry knowledge. Yet suddenly, the boyfriend is running the show.
Rarely does it end well. Take Joan Collins, who married Peter Holm in 1985. Within weeks, he had become her manager and co-producer. By 1987, the marriage collapsed in a storm of bitterness.
I’ve seen the same pattern in everyday life. Brilliant women who once spoke their minds now begin every sentence with, “And Joe says…”—as if their identity has been swallowed whole. The pattern is chillingly predictable: isolate her from friends, cut ties with anyone who might see through the act, and gradually take total control. Netflix’s Dirty John dramatises this cycle with unnerving accuracy.
Ghislaine Maxwell:
Consider, too, the controversial case of Ghislaine Maxwell. An intelligent, educated woman from a powerful family, she nonetheless became the enabler of Jeffrey Epstein. Was he a replacement father figure for the domineering Robert Maxwell? Did her need for validation blind her to the enormity of his crimes?
Whatever the reason, it is telling that Epstein’s male associates have largely escaped accountability, while Maxwell sits behind bars. She has become, many argue, the fall guy in a sordid melodrama. Her case is a stark reminder of how even the brightest women can be drawn into the orbit of a manipulative man.
Beyond Blame
So why do smart women fall for con men? Because intelligence is not a shield against love, against hope, or against the human desire to be needed. These women are not foolish—they are human.
If anything, their empathy, generosity, and optimism make them prime targets. And until society learns to place blame squarely where it belongs—on the men who manipulate, control, and exploit—the cycle will continue.
The question, then, should not be “Why do women fall for con men?” but rather, “Why do we allow con men to keep exploiting love so freely?”
Because in the end, the real con is not about women being weak—it’s about predators preying on the very best of human qualities.
Will Harry Meet Charlie?
There is so much speculation surrounding Prince Harry’s upcoming visit. Will he meet with his father, or won’t he? That’s the question on everyone’s lips.
First of all, he is King Charles’s son—and whether he is seen as the prodigal son or not, I truly hope a meeting takes place. After all, no amount of titles or headlines can change the simple truth of family.
As a nation, we watched Harry and his brother William Walk behind their mother’s coffin. They were just boys, and the emotional and psychological impact of that moment must have been unimaginable. It shaped both of them forever, and perhaps explains much about the men they have become.
Of course, all families have rifts. Harsh words get said, mistakes are made, and Harry has certainly made some. His marriage added another layer of complexity, and Meghan herself is another story entirely. But to dismiss him outright would be unfair.
Harry was always one of my favourite royals. He brought a youthful sparkle and an authenticity to public life that made him stand out. Whatever the differences, I hope father and son can find their way back to each other.
“We are all born as blank canvases; hate, racism, and a lack of understanding are learned.” How you choose to see the world and create the tapestry of your life is up to you. Blanky is here to “Make Earth Safe Again.”
Blanky told Patrick not to worry. He assured him that everything would be fine now, and encouraged him to keep shining brightly, just as he always had. Patrick’s new friends, though they noticed he was a little different, were happy to welcome him into their games. It had only taken a little time to explain how truly amazing Patrick was, and once they understood, they accepted him with open arms. “But you’re going,” said Patrick, his voice trembling as he clutched Blanky tightly. “What will I do without you?” Blanky’s gentle voice carried calm reassurance. “No, Patrick. I won’t really be gone. I am energy, and energy can never disappear—it just changes form. I’ll always be here, watching over you. If you ever really need me, just shout, and I’ll come. But please, Patrick, promise me something. Be your own unique energy. Be proud of who you are. Only call for me if it’s a true emergency. The rest of the time, I want you to stand tall and make yourself proud.” With those words, Blanky shimmered, the soft glow around him brightening before he vanished into the air like starlight carried away by the wind. Far away, 7,000 miles from Waterloo in London, lay the warm and glittering shores of the Dominican Republic. Though oceans stretched between them, Blanky could still hear faint cries for help echoing across the world. Something was wrong—deeply wrong. He could feel it in the atmosphere. The balance was shifting, and a dark presence stirred. Blanky recognised it instantly: the Olethros. They were near, and they were meddling again, leaving the planet weak and gasping for breath. His worst fears were soon confirmed. On a sandy beach, lying helplessly on its side, was a dolphin. Its sleek silver body was scratched and bruised, its breath ragged as it struggled to survive. Being made of pure energy, Blanky could communicate with all living creatures. He knelt by the suffering animal, his voice soft and kind. “Help me… help me to the water,” the dolphin squeaked weakly. First, Blanky placed his glowing hands upon the dolphin’s wounds. A gentle light poured out of him, soothing the creature’s pain and knitting torn skin. Slowly, the dolphin’s panic subsided. Then Blanky transformed—his body reshaping into that of a tall, powerful man. With strength that came not from muscle but from energy itself, he lifted the dolphin carefully and carried it back into the turquoise sea. The moment they touched the water, the dolphin raised its head and spoke clearly. “I am Stinggal,” it said, its voice now stronger, though tinged with sorrow.
As the waves lapped around them, Blanky allowed his energy to flow once more, transforming himself into a dolphin so he could swim alongside Stinggal. Their fins cut through the water with ease as they dived into the deeper blue, exploring the world beneath the surface. But there was little joy to be found there. The sea was clouded, its once-crystal depths marred by floating waste. Fish darted nervously, entangled in nets that stretched endlessly across the ocean floor. The corals, once glowing with colour, were bleached and broken. “The sea is being poisoned,” Stinggal said, his tone heavy with grief. “It is the work of the one they call the Orange Man. He cares only for money and fame. He tears down forests and scars the earth. He pours filth into the oceans and poisons the air. He does not care for life, only for power and wealth. If this continues, my kind—and many others—will soon vanish forever.” Blanky swam alongside him, listening intently as Stinggal continued. “They no longer respect the natural order. Fishing is allowed everywhere, without limit. Great nets are dragged across the seas, destroying entire habitats. The young are caught with the old. The strong are trapped with the weak. Nothing is spared. If something is not done, the oceans will become empty deserts, and the balance of the whole world will collapse.” Blanky’s heart, though made of energy, ached with sorrow. He had seen the Olethros bring destruction before, but this was different. This was not just one species in danger—this was the very foundation of the planet being eroded. He looked at Stinggal, whose bright eyes flickered with both hope and fear. “Then we must fight,” Blanky said firmly. “Not with anger, but with courage and truth. The Orange One may have power, but the Earth has a voice of its own. We will remind the world to listen.” Stinggal gave a small, hopeful leap from the water, droplets sparkling around him like diamonds. “Then perhaps there is still a chance,” he said softly. “The Orange One lives in the country of stars and stripes. He silences anyone who is different, anyone who dares to protect the planet.” “Then let’s swim,” said Blanky. Side by side, the two dolphins swam into the vast horizon, ready to face whatever darkness lay ahead. After many days, they reached the shores of Florida, where it was time to part. Stinggal nuzzled Blanky gently. “Do not worry. I’ll be back when you need me.” The Orange One—whom the world called Orangey—was guarded in a huge white house. For most, it would be impossible to reach him. He was in human form, but his skin was unnaturally orange and crispy-looking. Sitting behind a great oak desk, he shuffled papers, smirking at his own power. The heavy doors swung open, and a pale, sharp-faced woman entered. “I have some prizes for you, for being so amazing,” she said with a smile. “Thank you. Put them on the desk,” Orangey replied, barely looking up. “You’ll be impressed,” the woman continued. “We’ve just brought plastic back everywhere—no restrictions. We’ve reopened drilling for oil. And best of all, we’ve banned the words global warming from every official report.” “Fake news!” Orangey barked, slamming his hand on the desk. The blonde woman jumped up and down with excitement. “Well done! Did you also ban those who don’t speak English fluently from entering the country?” “All done,” Orangey said proudly. “Soon, we will drain this world of every resource. When it is broken and empty, we’ll move on—just like we did with Alacritas.” The woman clapped her pale hands, though her skin did not yet have the telltale orange hue of the Olethros. But Blanky knew what they were. The Olethros always revealed themselves in the end, their bodies glowing with a sickly orange light as they fed on destruction. This time, he could not allow it. Earth would not be their next victim. Blanky hovered at the window of the great white house, his body shimmering with invisible energy. He could see Orangey and his pale companion celebrating their victories, blind to the damage they had sown across the planet. It was time. The battle to save Earth was about to begin.
Even before David J Howe was born, the world of print and storytelling was already close at hand. His father worked in the printing department at the Daily Express newspaper, a job he kept until the paper moved out of Fleet Street in 1984. Neither father nor son could have foreseen that David’s fascination with a certain Saturday evening television programme would grow into a lifelong obsession — one that would shape his career, his friendships, and ultimately even save his life.
We sat down with David to talk about Doctor Who, the Daleks, and his extraordinary new memoir Who Me!.
John Pertwee and David ,,,
From Fan to Creator
Q: Do you remember when the magic of Doctor Who first gripped you?
David: I was just a boy in South London during the 1960s, when Dalek toys were everywhere. Like a lot of children, I was completely captivated. By the time I was 15, I was so inspired that I decided to build my own Dalek. My father used to bring home waste plastic from the printing floor, and I scavenged other bits and pieces. Using those materials, I built a full-size Dalek from scratch. It was a labour of love — and in a way, the start of everything that followed.
Father and son build a Dalek
Working with the Doctor
Q: Your journey from fan to authority on the show is remarkable. What were the big turning points?
David: I began collecting, writing, and eventually contributing to the world of Doctor Who. One of the most extraordinary moments was working with Jon Pertwee himself. Helping him with his autobiography was a privilege and a huge learning experience. Over the years, I became more and more involved in chronicling the programme’s history — from conventions and events to writing books that many fans now consider reference staples.
Q: You’ve said that Doctor Who quite literally saved your life. Can you tell us about that?
David: Yes, it’s true. A few years ago, I was heading to Cardiff for a Doctor Who exhibition — specifically to see the Daleks. On the way, I suffered a massive heart attack. If I had been at home, I wouldn’t have survived. But because of that trip, I happened to pass right by Cardiff University Hospital, one of the best cardiac hospitals in the country. I was rushed straight there. Without that coincidence, without that journey to see the Daleks, I simply wouldn’t be here today.
And of course, I wasn’t alone. My wife, bestselling author Samantha Lee Howe, has been my rock through it all. Without her support, recovery would have been a much harder road.
David with his beautiful wife and best selling author Samantha Lee Howe .
The Memoir: Who Me!
Q: Your new book, Who Me!, comes out this October. What can readers expect?
David: The book is my story, but it’s also the story of Doctor Who told through a very personal lens. I wanted to show how a television programme can shape a life, a culture, and even a country. I take readers behind the scenes — from the earliest fan conventions to my work documenting the series in print. I talk about working with Jon Pertwee, interviewing actors like Peter Davison, and even how the BBC began to understand and build its merchandise empire.
More than that, it’s about the joy of fandom, the friendships forged, the challenges faced, and the way Doctor Whobecame — and remains — a defining part of British popular culture.
Final Thoughts
Q: Why should readers pick up Who Me!?
David: Because it’s not just a fan’s tale. It’s a story about passion, perseverance, and the power of popular culture. Anyone interested in Doctor Who, or in British television history more broadly, will find something to enjoy. And I hope it shows that sometimes, what we love most can guide our lives in ways we never expect.
David with 70;s icon and Dr Who assistant Frazer Hines
📖 Who Me! by David J Howe Publication date: 9 October 2025 Formats: Hardback, Digital, Audio Publisher: Bedford Square Available on Amazon
On the back of Tommy Fury documentary The Good . The Bad .The Fury that I really enjoyed I am re running my article on Tyson from 2022
Hero or villain? Steven Smith looks at what it takes to be the man who has everyone talking, the heavyweight boxing champion of the world, Tyson Fury.
A hero to the poor with his charitable donations to the homeless, a champion for mental health and the self-proclaimed ‘King of the Gypsies’. Tyson standing at 6’9” embodies all that can be labelled as masculine, yet unlike many hard men, this giant breaks the mould. He has started to wear his heart on his sleeve and has opened up, talking frankly of his demons, depression, and personal battles with addiction.
Tyson also adds to the list that he is bipolar and suffers from anxiety. But is it possible that the man of the moment, who is so desperate for the world to perceive him as super masculine is still, as his father John Fury described him, a shy and sensitive overweight boy inside? Was it this shy boy that begged for the acceptance of his boxing coach father? Was it his unconventional gypsy upbringing that pushed him into a mould of boxing and masculinity, which subsequently became the root of Tyson’s demons and depression? Is it the often toxic masculinity that is piled on to so many young men during their upbringing, the cause of his trauma and mental health issues later in life?
Now, I like Tyson Fury. He is fascinating, and from the minute he burst on to our screens, I was aware of him. There was something that made me want to stop and listen; he appeared to be a model hero on paper. His smile lights up the screen, and his enthusiasm for life makes me want to know more. Then there is the unconditional love that he has for his family, which simply melts your heart.
“The best part of my life is taking my kids to school. I could live in a cardboard box and eat cheese sandwiches, as long as my family is with me“.
Tyson tells us though it is doubtful that his gorgeous wife Paris, who he has been with since they were teenagers, would ever let it come to that. She is one shrewd cookie and lives like a footballer’s wife rather than a gypsy though you can’t imagine Victoria Beckham arriving in Vegas and going straight in to do David’s dirty dishes.
But of course, once it was pointed out that this man, who I would want on my team in any battles, did not just have traditional values but what some might consider downright prehistoric values, I was speechless.
Unbelievably, in 2015, in an interview on TheJeremy Vine show, with gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, he compared gays to paedophiles, claiming that homosexuality is “One of the three things that will lead to the apocalypse; the other two being abortion and paedophilia”.
Even his younger brother Love Island star Tommy seems to have taken the anti-gay stance On a now disabled Twitter account, Tommy tweeted his older brother, Tyson, allegedly stating “Come on bro, let’s get dis win good luck brother and Chisora is a f***** and he’s gettin it proper @TysonFury”.
In 2018 he was nominated for Sports Personality of the Year, yet his homophobic comments and derogatory sex views came back to haunt him, with calls to remove him and comments made including:
“So, when Tyson Fury is called the people’s champion, it begs the question: which people?”
Challenged about his views by one reporter, he sat in his van replying “Jesus loves you”.
Tyson has since apologised for his outburst and controversial views.
Were these Tyson’s views or were they opinions that had been drummed into him from an early age by someone else? Or was it a culture of growing up in the gypsy community, not known to embrace and welcome gay people among their tribe?
Fellow gypsy fighter, Billy Joe Saunders says, “Where we come from, if you show weakness, you might as well give up on life as a fighter”. It’s a world where men fought, and women, as quoted by Tyson himself, were ‘best flat on their back or in the kitchen’.
Tyson comes from a world where LGBTQ is stamped on with ferocity. Anyone who has read ‘Gypsy Boy’ by Mikey Walsh will find it not only a harrowing experience but a moving and humorous one too. Brilliantly written, it tells the story of a gay boy brought as a Romanian and unable to conform to his expectations of masculinity. The description of the brutality he suffered, at the hand of his father, as the reader, stained the pages with my tears.
Yet, at the end of the book, his father unexpectedly turned up to see Walsh, now a teacher, despite the violence
Could growing up in a tightly knit community with some values and beliefs that are from a by-gone age, be like other, almost closed communities or cults and brainwash their young?
Tyson appears to be an intelligent man, embracing all that life has to offer, in a way an old soul that could see that the bright lights of Hollywood or Vegas could not compare to his roots in Morecambe, or make him any happier for that matter.
“From the age of six, all I ever dreamed of was being a boxer, now I have it all; I am the greatest boxer in the world yes, I have sinned, suffered from depression and anxiety, and I am bipolar”, he tells viewers.
Tyson does not have it all; regrettably, he does not have good mental health, something money or fame can’t replace.
His dad, John Fury, is not a likeable character; there is something a little sad about him, almost broken, floored and in denial. He tells us that Tyson’s mental health has been impacted due to being so successful and mixing with millionaires and celebrities.
There is something that screams ‘pushy show biz mum’ about him. That statement about his son confirmed my suspicions; that he would like very much to have been Tyson.
“I am sure that I have depression but, in my day, we had to worry about keeping a roof over my family’s head and food on the table, there was no time to think of any of that”.
I am sure at heart he loves his son, but he displays little understanding or empathy for mental health issues. To be fair to John, however, he did come from an age where issues such as mental health were rarely discussed.
In the first of the series John who is banned from America for a criminal conviction, after being released from prison in 2015 following a four-year completion of an 11-year sentence, for gouging another man’s eye out during a brawl at a car auction, tells us that Tyson was a shy, sensitive, fat kid. “I brought all my boys up the same; to fight; I trained them myself”. John, a bare-knuckle boxer must have had the same training from his father as a boy and probably would not think that any of his boys could be different. Young men or boys who have toxic masculinity forced upon them can have extreme consequences to their mental wellbeing, particularly on the sensitive child or those that do not fit the macho mould.
What does toxic masculinity mean?
Researchers have defined it as encompassing;
Suppressing emotions or masking distress
Maintaining an appearance of hardness
Violence as an indicator of power (think: “tough-guy” behaviour)
In other words, toxic masculinity is what can come of teaching boys that they can’t express their emotions openly; that they have to be “tough all the time”; that anything other than that makes them feminine or weak. (No, it doesn’t mean that all men are inherently toxic.) The harmful side effects can, however, develop into homophobia, or misogyny.
Toxic masculinity, according to Psycom and several surveys, can lead to suicide, depression, anxiety, addiction, and drug use.
A 2017 survey by the Equality and Human Rights Commission found that gypsies, travellers and Roma were found to suffer “poorer mental health than the rest of the population in Britain” and were “more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression”.
Only last year Billy and Joe Smith, stars of My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding were found dead in a suicide pact. They had both been struggling with mental health issues.
Now, looking back, I was a sensitive kid too. My dad introduced me to football by heading the ball at my head in the front room. It made me cry, and I hated football from then on. As an adult, I am quite sporty, but Dad could never really teach me anything. The last thing I needed was tough love.
Is it not possible that locked in this huge massive man is the shy, sensitive kid at loggerheads with who he has become? Desperate to please his father, who needed his shy son to “Man up”. The poor man can find a cloud in every silver lining; it must have been hard for the young Fury.
To be honest, the penny drops on what it was that that I saw in Tyson. He had the traits of another beautiful man who had the same personal scenario. He too could be charming, but many said he was bad news; he lived with depression, anxiety and had addiction issues, yet there was something I adored about him.
He had a troubled childhood and was abandoned as a kid by his father. He told me about the days his dad left, with such vivid description, despite being only 8 years old at the time. It was at that moment I saw that very child looking at me through man’s eyes. Taking a shot, I told him “that frightened child is with you every day, you protect him with your front”. There was a silence and the relief that someone had seen the real him, and because he did not feel judged, he could be himself. That’s what I saw in Tyson.
My money is on the fact that Tyson is at loggerheads with himself.
Everyone around him seems to be at loggerheads with Tyson’s new direction. Whilst embracing wealth and lifestyle, some of them claim to want to stay with the traditions of the travelling community.
Tyson wants to set precedents and make changes within the gypsy community. He hates “dream crushers”, whatever his kids want to be, he will be fully supportive.
Yet in a U-turn, wife Paris, who earlier in the show, ‘Tyson Fury Gypsy King’, says she lived her earlier years as a traveller in a caravan now says that she could not bear to leave her beautiful home with hot water and mod cons and her beloved trips to Marbella.
GQ picture Tommy Fury BBC I player .
Paris wants the kids raised as travellers. The kids will leave school at 11, and when they marry, they can then leave home, (No room for any of the kids to be gay in that plan then). Daughter Venezuela, who wants to be a dancer or gymnast, calls her mum ‘dream crusher’. Paris comments that Venezuela is already too tall to become either; Venezuela does have a point.
You like Paris in the show, but it’s hard not to, but you want to give her a reality check. When she is not cooking for the massive family, Paris seems to spend the rest of her time in the hairdressers.
Tyson clashes with her; he is keen as ‘King’ to make changes; the kids should stay in school; they can embrace both lifestyles. Here is where I thought he could bring about change, as he moves among the likes of the ‘queens’ dream’ gay ally, Robbie Williams, along with other showbiz pals.
It is possible to educate a homophobe, misogynist, or even a bigot, especially if you take them out of an environment that is steeped in it.
My bet is if Tyson’s demons do not cause him to self-destruct, let’s hope he fights them as hard as any opponent. Tyson could be the king that brings a kinder, more tolerant era to the gypsy community.
After all, a man who pays €200 for two lobsters and sets them free can’t be all that bad!
Listen, up Mike is back . You’re thinking about growing a Moustache? Maybe for November Good call. Nothing changes your look quicker than a solid ’stache. But here’s the thing: if you want it to look sharp and not like you’ve just crawled out of a cave, you’ve got to know how to grow it right, keep it clean, and style it like a pro. Lucky for you, I’m here to give you the lowdown . https://uk.movember.com
Step 1: Growing Your Moustache
Be patient
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a proper Moustache. Depending on your hair type, it can take three to six weeks before it really starts to take shape. Don’t rush it — let nature do its thing.
Barber’s Tip: Forget that old wives’ tale about shaving making it grow back thicker. Doesn’t work. What does help? Eating well, getting sleep, staying active, and keeping your skin clean. Healthy body, healthy hair.
Grow the tach first
Here’s the trick: instead of letting just the lip fuzz sit there looking lonely, grow your whole beard out. Once the mustache thickens up, then shave the beard. That way, you dodge the awkward “half-grown” look.
Invest in a trimmer
Trust me, a good trimmer is worth its weight in gold. Scissors are fine for touch-ups, but if you want precision, get yourself a rechargeable trimmer with adjustable guards. Or come see me once a week
Celebrity client Nick Nevern
Define the shape
Most Moustaches run to the corners of your mouth and stop there. Keep the lip hair, shave the cheeks, chin, and jaw. Once you’ve carved out the shape, leave it alone and just keep the rest of your face tidy.
Keep it clean
Facial hair traps oil, sweat, and the crumbs from last night’s sandwich. Wash it a couple times a week with a mild shampoo and conditioner. Softer hair = less itch. If you’re fancy, a little beard oil won’t hurt. After all that tach can bring all the boys or gals to the yard but if it isn’t clean they will run right back
yes thats 70’s who’s your daddy ? looks is back and Mike here to show you how to get it and maintain ,
Step 2: Maintaining the ’Stache
Keep it neat
Even the wildest Mustache needs a little discipline. Snip stray hairs with scissors or lightly buzz the ends with your trimmer. How often depends on your style — could be daily, could be weekly.
Wash and groom
A good foaming face wash in the morning and before bed keeps your skin clear and your mustache fresh. Nobody likes a greasy upper lip.
Train it with wax
If you’re going for anything beyond “basic lip rug,” you’ll need wax. Warm a little between your fingers, rub it through, then comb it from the middle outward. Beard combs work best — small teeth, good control.
Mikes work the ultimate in 1920s tach
Step 3: Styling Ideas
Now for the fun part. What kind of moustache guy are you?
The Pencil: Thin, sharp, clean lines. Think old-school film star or John Waters.
The Boxcar: A neat rectangle above the lip, stopping before the corners. Straightforward and tidy.
The Fu Manchu: Hair extends down past the jawline. Bold move — not for the faint-hearted.
The Handlebar: Grow it long, curl the ends up with wax. Victorian gent or modern hipster, your pick.
The Walrus: Big, bushy, covers the top lip. Think Teddy Roosevelt chopping wood.
The Selleck: Full, strong, classic. You’ve seen it a thousand times — it never goes out of style.
And here’s the truth: you don’t need to stick to just one. Mix, match, experiment. Worst case? You don’t like it, you shave it off. Best case? You find your signature look.
Looks like a star .
Final Words from the Barber’s Chair
A Mustache isn’t just hair on your face — it’s a statement. Take the time to grow it right, keep it clean, and wear it with confidence. Remember: a man doesn’t just grow a Mustache. He earns getting to ask “Who’s Your Daddy? “
The word visionary gets thrown around far too easily. But Russell T Davies’s Years and Years earns the label. Six years after it first aired, it looks less like drama and more like a blueprint for the world we’re stumbling into.
Rewatch it now, and it feels psychic. Political chaos, social unrest, the rise of populism—it’s all there. And unless we wise up, the show won’t be a warning. It will be a prophecy.
Russell T Davies a psychic for sure a genius in his craft .
No, we don’t have Vivienne Rook. But we do have her male counterpart: Nigel Farage. Like Rook, he plays the grinning “man of the people,” shaking hands in Runcorn and smiling for the cameras. But behind the performance lies something darker—homophobia, intolerance, and politics built on fear.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russell_T_Davies
I do not support Reform UK, but it would be foolish to dismiss their rise. This isn’t business as usual. Their growing popularity is dangerous, particularly for LGBTQ+ communities and minority groups. A few months ago, I pointed out how clever it was to put Sarah Pochin—the friendly, mum-next-door figure—front and centre in Runcorn, a town already uneasy about immigration and crime. But that was just a mask. The real Reform heavyweights—Anne Widdecombe and others—are waiting in the wings.
Vivienne Rook played by Emma Thompson . The smiling pr face of Reform Sarah Pochin and the real deal Farage and Widecombe .
Meanwhile, protests against asylum seekers grow louder. Hotels are shutting, talk of “temporary camps” is surfacing, and once again Years and Years looks disturbingly accurate.
The truth is simple: Britain needs immigration. Since Brexit, we’ve been short of workers. And asylum seekers are not faceless statistics—they’re people fleeing torture, persecution, or death. Yes, a small minority will cause problems, but scapegoating the many for the sins of the few is cowardly politics.
And what do the hotel protests achieve? Nothing but anger. The Vile e image of men and woman wrapped in the St George’s Cross turning the English flag into a symbol of division.
A flag of our country we should be proud of . Not one used for racism .
Davies warned us about this too. Suppressing extreme voices doesn’t silence them—it pushes them underground, where they grow more dangerous. In Years and Years, those who should never have been jailed became martyrs. In real life, extremists are being elevated in exactly the same way.
Meanwhile, fear grips ordinary people. In London, as in most major towns, there are streets best avoided at night. That fear is oxygen for extremists.
We’re also hollowing out our culture. Hard-won expertise is being replaced with one-week certificates. People call themselves “experts” in trades and professions that once took years of graft. We let them.
And we celebrate the wrong things. We tell ourselves we want a country built on skills, morals, and manners—yet we reward celebrity over substance. How can we build anything solid when voters shrug at lies, when eight-year-old girls aspire not to be nurses or teachers but the next Katie Price? If we don’t act, the rot will be ours to own.
Then there’s technology. Phones have become extensions of our bodies. AI is already replacing jobs. Humans risk becoming redundant in a world they created.
And celebrity still rules. We’ve already lived through the reality TV star who became President of the United States. His orange finger hovered over the nuclear button while he shouted, “You’re fired!” The laugh track is gone. The danger is real.
Davies even nailed the imagery: the “£1 T-shirt,” the slow creep of authoritarianism, the erosion of freedoms. Years and Years feels less like fiction with every passing headline.
Unless we wake up, unless we stop normalising dangerous rhetoric, it won’t be long before Farage—or someone worse—takes the helm. And then Years and Years will no longer be television. It will be our future.
From London to the North East: Dr Anna Kennedy OBE brings her award-winning showcase of autistic talent to the Playhouse Theatre this September
Whitley Bay Playhouse is set to welcome a spectacular event to the North East this autumn. On Saturday 6th September 2025, the award-winning showcase Autism’s Got Talent—founded by Dr Anna Kennedy OBE—will light up the stage in collaboration with Alisar Jane, founder of the True Colours Theatre CIO Foundation. Ahead of the event, Anna Kennedy shares her thoughts.
Autism’s Got talent at the Mermaid Theatre .
How did you come up with the idea for Autism’s Got Talent? The idea grew out of my anti-bullying campaign “Give Us a Break”, which was created to support autistic children and adults. After the campaign, I began receiving videos from autistic individuals showcasing their talents—singers, dancers, poets, actors, magicians, and musicians. I realised there needed to be a platform to celebrate these abilities and challenge negative stereotypes. That’s how Autism’s Got Talent was born.
Are the judges ever critical, or is the focus on encouragement? There are no judges—it isn’t a competition. Autism’s Got Talent is purely a showcase, shining a light on the talents of autistic children and adults, from the age of five upwards, with no upper age limit.
How many performers usually take part? Each year, we usually select around 20 performers from across the UK and overseas.
Amongst the celebrity presenters and supporters actress Kacey Ainsworth .
The show has been a huge success in London, attracting performers from as far as the USA. Why did you choose Whitley Bay as a location for the event? London is now in its 14th year of hosting Autism’s Got Talent. Over the years we’ve collaborated with many groups and charities nationwide, and I was particularly impressed by the work of Alisar Jane and her team at the True Colours Theatre Foundation in the North East. After visiting their theatre school, it felt like the perfect partnership, and Whitley Bay’s Playhouse Theatre was the ideal venue.
You also run the autism charity Anna Kennedy Online. In what ways does the charity support individuals and families? Anna Kennedy Online is run by a dedicated team of volunteers. We support individuals and families in many ways—raising awareness and acceptance, providing free workshops and training, and offering practical advice. We also use our website and social media to share up-to-date information, news, and resources about autism and overlapping conditions.
Another of your flagship events is The Autism Hero Awards. How long has that been established? The Autism Hero Awards is now in its 6th year. Nominations are currently open and will close in March 2026.
With the current government cutbacks, do you worry that people living with autism will be disproportionately affected? Yes, I believe they will. I’ve spoken with many parents, carers, and autistic individuals who are very concerned. Organisations such as the National Autistic Society are warning that the cuts could increase poverty and social isolation, as people risk losing access to essential financial support, healthcare, and community services.
You are originally from the North. What inspired your move down South? Both my husband Sean and I were born in Middlesbrough. We’ve lived in London for almost 40 years now. Sean moved first to study at a West London university, and I followed a couple of weeks later—we didn’t want to be apart!
What can audiences expect from Autism’s Got Talent in Whitley Bay? They can expect a magical evening, filled with extraordinary performances from autistic children and adults. The Playhouse Theatre will come alive with music, dance, poetry, comedy, and more. It’s a celebration of talent, positivity, and community spirit—we cannot wait to share it with Whitley Bay!
2Shades Magazine 