Neil attended St. Hilda’s Prep school (one of the last Dame schools) in Honor Oak Park on the site now occupied by Walters Way. He then went to Haberdashers’ Aske’s in New Cross. He spent most of his working life in the film industry as a freelance camera technician. He is now an aspiring author having just published his first novel THE SWITCH.
What bought you here?
I was born here. In Dulwich Hospital in 1960. Both my parents were from New Cross. They moved to East Dulwich when I was 3 months old. The rest as they say is history.
The most famous person you have seen or met!
I spent 40 years working in the film industry on numerous films and TV commercials. In that time, I have met hundreds of famous people, Freddie Flintoff, Julie Walters, Noddy Holder and Joanna Lumley I remember as being among the nicest.
Describe your perfect weekend?
A perfect weekend would need to include a win for Millwall, a few pints of Guinness, maybe a glass or two of Malbec but most of all spending precious time with my lovely wife.
Coffee or tea? Where?
I have always been a tea drinker. Never really liked coffee. I love popping into the French Café Bistro on Forest Hill Road for a cuppa and a croissant. They were hit hard during lockdown (as so many businesses were) but there is always a friendly smile to welcome you in.
The best meal I’ve ever had?
Spicy Korean Monkfish in The Fish Shop on Newquay Beach. Absolutely beautiful.
Café, pub or bar?
Always a pub for me. Watsons General Telegraph (also on Forest Hill Road) pulls a nice pint of Guinness.
What is your favourite shop?
I often buy flowers from East Dulwich Flowers on Lordship Lane. The staff are helpful and friendly, and they create the most spectacular bouquets which always go down well with my wife and my mum.
If money was no object?
I have just had my first novel THE SWITCH published and have nearly completed the sequel. If money was no object, I would love to become a full time author.
The book I am reading at the moment?
‘Tales of a Film Prop Man’ by Pete Benson. A book filled with hilarious stories and anecdotes from a lifetime spent in the film industry. Guaranteed to raise a smile.
My perfect holiday?
I have had a love affair with the West Country since I was a child. I think Devon and Cornwall are amongst the most beautiful places in the world. My wife and I recently visited the Lewinnick Lodge on the Pentire Peninsular. Absolutely stunning.
My secret ambition?
At the age of 63 I have given up hope of playing football, cricket or rugby for England. My secret ambition is to be a successful author.
I am working on it………