Reflections of a Self-Confessed Wazzock

Book excerpt: Having worked as an Environmental Health Officer for the Westminster City Council from 1971 to 2015, it is little wonder (and a great idea) that the author has written his memoirs. He shares some of the most colourful and entertaining stories you're ever likely to encounter in a memoir. He tells of his extensive professional experiences with relish, humour and charm, and recounts some light-hearted tales about the strangest of people (and situations) he encountered along the way. We all do stupid things from time to time, and the author admits he is no exception. But instead of trying to hide or deny these traits, the author suggests we embrace them. By celebrating our quirks and foibles, we become better people, and are less likely to get bogged down by the day to day frictions that all to easily build up in our communities. And this book is testament to these refreshing beliefs. From insights into his relationships with colleagues, and snippets of his personal life, to stories about Chinese restaurants, tenement flats, seedy Soho, abattoirs, noisy neighbours, Regent's Park Zoo, bomb scares and some hair-raising experiences during his early years as a chemist - this book will need to be read at least twice to fully appreciate the nuggets contained therein. Some of the characters the author met during his lengthy career deserve a book of their own. They're eclectic, colourful, quirky and most of all, highly memorable. So whether you've worked in local government, environmental health, or you just love a good yarn, you will love Reflections of a Self-Confessed Wazzock.