How did you first get the idea to write the trilogy about United and how long did it take to get the idea off the ground?
The idea came while I was working for United on T&B. I was doing a series on Past Seasons and had to source information. There are a few books on United already but none told the full story. So I had to go back to the best sources available, the local papers. After a year or so I had amassed a lot of info and stats. A friend planted the seed of the idea. I then started to put together a book and over the next couple of years it took shape. There were a few styles tried out before the final version evolved.
How daunting a task was all the comprehensive research when you first approached the books?
When I started the research, it wasn't a difficult task at all because I was absolutely engrossed! I spent days on end in the Central Library poring over old newspapers. I also made trips through to Edinburgh to look through microfilm at the National Library and to the National Archives of Scotland to go through old papers on Dundee Hibs. Later in the research phase there were times when the size of the project was daunting but I was able to break off for short periods and then went back at it afresh. I have to be honest though and tell you that I'm glad the research phase is now complete.
What was the reasoning behind making it a trilogy of books?
That's an easy one. When I started, I planned just one book but the volume of information dictated that it had to be split into more manageable sizes.
What was the most exciting new find you turned up during your research?
Another easy one! When I came across the article in the Evening Telegraph confirming the actual date that Dundee Hibs was formed, 24th May 1909. I was really chuffed to have been the person who found that important piece of information.
What part of the club's history does The Rise of the Terrors deal with?
The Rise of the Terrors picks up in 1945 just after the end of WW2. It then relates the tough 1940s and 1950s through the Jerry Kerr years and the early years of Jim McLean. This books ends after season 1978-79. The next volume will start with the League Cup winning season and go through to the end of this current season.
Between researching/writing the book and your work on T&B...do you EVER sleep?
LOL! I get plenty of sleep believe me! It's one of my hobbies! Seriously though, I just have to be active. As well as the book projects and working on T&B, I'm also involved with United in a couple of the Centenary projects and a bit of website work. On match days you'll find me on duty as a Commercial Ambassador in the George Fox Lounges and I also keep the books and audit for DUDA. Then there are the functions! For the last couple of years I have been one the team helping out at the dinners. Know what? You're right - how do I have time to sleep?
Who have been your personal United heroes over the years?
Do you want the full list! Since the Club was formed there have been a huge number of people who have made a massive difference on the pitch, in the dugout and in the boardroom. I could give you dozens of names but I'd probably still miss someone and that would be an injustice to them.
Hopes for the future of the club?
I grew up watching United through the Jerry Kerr era and then Jim McLean. I consider myself privileged to have witnessed all our major trophy successes. The game has changed dramatically in the last dozen years or so and there is little chance of League success for any club outside the Old Firm. However, I believe that the League Cup and Scottish Cup are winnable. That's my main hope for the future. I want another cup win to celebrate!! I would also like to see the return of regular European involvement.
Is it safe to assume we can expect an additional book added on when United win the treble in season 2009/2010?
It's not safe to assume anything! I've said in the past that once the third book is published I would never do any more. However I have since revised that view to never say never… and as you have asked I will put on record a promise to document a treble winning season 2009-10!
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