A well-known Isle of Man TT figure has completed his autobiography, and promises it is a ‘stroke of pure genius’.
Derry Kissack is known to thousands as a member of the madcap Purple Helmets, most notably as the commentator who guides the awe-struck spectators through the breathtaking performances which are a favourite at the TT – as well as at shows around the world.
The Manxman said his book is ‘full of trouser bulging good fun, local stories and lies (sorry - flies on the wall observations) and sh*te of all sorts’.
Born in Crosby in the Isle of Man, Derry was dragged up on Kissack’s yard, up Kissack’s lane and was a mucky child from the outset, never happier than playing with bricks (real ones not Lego) and a tin of grease, he was destined to become something.
Derry said:
‘In 2002, I had a bit of a do in TT week and ended up in hospital after being taken roughly from behind by a German on the Mountain road - so I decided to jot down a few thoughts about me life whilst the grey matter could still recall a few adventures.’
‘I like to say that the book reveals the name of me first girl friend and sloppy stuff like that but it's very interesting really. There’s a paragraph on sprockets I have put on the Honda 90 for TT so if that’s your interest this is the book for you.’
‘It’s taken six years to write and that’s not because it’s a very big book – no – it’s been written slowly for anyone who can’t read very fast. I should also point out that none of the pictures used in the book have been airbrushed - I look like that in real life!’
The 158-page, paperback book is available to order now from the iomtt.com shop.