REVIEWS

While not one of 'The Great Works' certainly a classic in its own right; imparting Jack's unique brand of warts 'n' all humour and wit.

Although blessed not to have been involved in an actual `Firing War' the Cold War threat and uncertainty - just as harrowing - was ever present, making these unpraised men every bit as professional as those who served, both before and after them.

It goes without saying, that Jack knows how to enjoy life; endearing himself to all lucky enough to cross his bows. In singing his praises it's my belief that we should all take our hats off to Jack Strop.

Rear Admiral Sir Jasper Pendragon CDM

Anti-establishment - plenty crack - rollickin' good fun!

The Bush Telegraph

Captures the wit, endless backbiting and dark humour; so typical of the Lower Deck - a humdinger!

R. Stornaway

Although of days sadly long gone, this is a cheeky, light-hearted romp that spans the generations. A vivid amusing 'easy read' from relatively innocent times. It is an account of growing up in and around Edinburgh during the 1940s and 50s with the spectre of war and National Service hovering in the wings.

This candid tale unfolds to a witty yet nostalgic narrative of how life really was on the Lower Deck of Her Majesty's Royal Navy in the 50s and 60s, and oft-times, too near the truth to be funny.

Occasionally sad with flippant undertones, but generally hilarious, with colourful descriptions, poems and fascinating jargon to match each situation.

It's refreshing that the author does not try to portray 'Jack' as anything other than he actually is, or sees himself.

`Politically Incorrect' - and subversive by today's idiotic standards, but not so of the era written about therein. Both the title and cover explain the content. One you will read again and again, but definitely not one for the coffee table!

Sebastian Dangerfield

Reading

Jack could

make you

stroppy

Shiver me timbers! Anchors away! It's saucy, it's randy, it's altogether dandy and you don't have to have been in the navy  to wallow in Jack Strop VD and Scar. But for sure you need to be over 18.

This is a former submariner's too honest-to-be-untrue tale of Lower Deck life in the Royal Navy in the 'Swinging Sixties', like you've never read about it before.

Bob "Shiner" Wright (RN retd) wrote and published it himself.

He sent me a copy and it was, I recall, a couldn't‑put-it-down read.

His yarn begins in Edinburgh, where he grew up, leading to a raucous life on the briny.

He's back living in town and Jack Strop VD and Scar was still in print the last I heard.

I'll be picking it up again.

John Gibson