For 18 years Simon Binns is someone I have known and respected. First as a business journalist, more recently a generous walking companion, consistently as a fellow middle-aged media operator, wherever jobs we did, and also as a profoundly inspirational advocate for mental health self-care.
The banter boy in me would at this stage make an awkward link to his support, like me, of a perennially disappointing northern working class football club. But I won’t. I have been given the honour of an early draft of Red Star Paris, Simon’s book, which we are here to talk about tonight.
It’s brave, revelatory, funny and strikes home to anyone who loves football as we do.
Ladies and gentlemen, Simon Binns.
That was my intro to Simon at the event at George Street Books in Glossop last week.
And here’s what I said to Simon in a message after I’d read his book:
Mate, I loved the book.
I mean really loved it.
I think it’s because I’m terribly fond of you and you hold nothing back.
More than the football, which you joined up so skilfully with your own quest for belonging.
I’d love to explore that with you at the event, but obviously balance with pale ale, ultra culture, David Bellion and Habib Beye anecdotes for the football hipster element. ❤
https://www.pitchpublishing.co.uk/shop/red-star-paris-more-just-football-club
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