KEEPING IT CHEERY: ANECDOTES PB

When describing the phenomenon that is Rev Bill Shackleton, it becomes difficult to avoid over-use of the word `incorrigible`. Many have experienced his teasing humour; more have fallen over and rolled around the aisles helpless in the face of a no-holds-barred comedic genius. Bill won the 250th anniversary of The Scots Magazine`s Writing Competition (1990) with a short story called 'Minister on the roof'. His vision encompasses both the world we know and the world we don't; he's been published on the subject of ministry- 'A tribute to the Clerical Collar' - and more mysteriously on flying saucers: 'UFOs - an Opportunity for Chaplaincy' (both appearing in the Church of Scotland`s monthly ministers` forum). Keeping it Cherry brings Bill`s writing to a wider audience - and there`s no better authority on Glasgow East End than the man who spent 50 years in ministry there. With a foreword by Harry Reid and the ringing endorsement of Sally Magnusson, tak' a dauner wi' us through the Glasgow of yesteryear; meet characters like the 'Flying Carpet', read anecdotes from the famous and infamous, experience the history of the Church in Bridgeton from the inside, and enjoy this nostalgic, hilarious romp through five decades of the Brigton Youth Club. Gonnae no' dae that, eh, Bill?