The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
MY LIFE NEIL LANCASTER
Neil Lancaster is a crime and thriller writer born in Kent. He joined the RAF in 1983 and was a military policeman for six years, mostly a patrol dog handler. In 1990, he joined the Metropolitan Police. Since leaving the Met in 2015, Neil has lived in the Highlands. His newest book, Dead Man’s Grave, is on the longlist for the McIlvanney Prize for Scottish crime book of the year.
First record bought?
The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple and Don Maclean.
Book that changed your life? Without a doubt Running Blind by Desmond Bagley.
Most expensive purchase? Other than my house my Volvo XC70. Love it dearly.
First job?
I worked in a launderette in Kent where I grew up. I felt I was entering the big time on 75p an hour.
Favourite time of day?
Mornings, when the sun is just up. I get a coffee and stare at the view from my Black Isle home and pinch myself that I could be this lucky.
Last time you cried?
Us Lancasters cry at everything. Literally, anything.
Worst fashion faux pas?
Tonic two-tone suits, narrow braces, black and white shoes in the 1980s.
Favourite holiday destination?
I love where I live more than anywhere, but other than that, Greece.
Idea of holiday hell?
Packed beaches – ugh.
Biggest phobia?
Being trapped underground.
What are you watching on TV?
The most recent programme that had a real impact on me was Time, the prison drama on BBC.
Favourite movie?
Life of Brian.
How do you relax?
Quietly sat reading a book with my dog at my feet.
Best advice you’ve been given?
Always do the right thing.
Who you last spoke to on the phone?
Probably my son, Richard. He’s a Royal Marine.
First thing you did this morning?
Fed Peggy the dog, made coffee and then made breakfast for my son Ollie.
Worst mistake?
The one I didn’t learn from.
Your inspiration?
My dad, William Basil Lancaster, known as “Bill” or sometimes “Bas”. A legend.
Would most like to meet? Billy Connolly.
Childhood crush?
Debbie Harry. Or maybe Kate Bush, need I say more.
Weirdest fan gift (or present you’ve received)?
A remote-control insect for a secret Santa present.
Quirky habits?
I have to physically touch wood if I ever say “touch wood”.
Worst meal?
Coconut. I couldn’t eat a Bounty bar if my life depended on it.
What makes you laugh? My dog.
Most embarrassing moment?
When you think someone is coming in for a hug, and it turns out you were wrong.
Sean Connery or Daniel Craig?
Sean Connery.
Beauty is?
Sat outside my house, with a G&T looking at the view.