My Story
Colin Hill was born in Quarry Bank, in the West Midlands.
Colin was the first of his family to attend University – at Sheffield – where he studied English Literature, European History, and Politics. Though the usual demands – of career, and adult life – then took centre stage, they did not frustrate his desire and passion to write. Indeed, a wide variety of experience within the Civil Service and local government gave full-rein for Colin’s talents to flourish – in the realms of report writing, presentations, and the formulation of any number of inventive ‘strategies’. And, in his private time, Colin continued to write stories, articles and poetry. Although a few poems were published in various magazines, most of Colin’s writing was for his own and his family’s entertainment.
Personal Life
Throughout his life, Colin has maintained a passionate interest in the natural world, and has been proud to be a powerful advocate of wildlife conservation, and a supporter of wildlife charities – for example, founding the charity The Rainforest Trust. Colin, and his wife, June, have also been privileged to share their lives with a number of unforgettable cats and dogs – the subject of Colin’s first published book, a memoir: Born to Run: The Story of Hector & Jason.
The accumulation of life experience, and deep delving in the ‘classics’ – Shakespeare, Austen, Dickens, Eliot, Lawrence – has, hopefully, nurtured Colin Hill’s judgement, and sharpened his powers of observation. While Colin’s first collection of short stories – Vinegar & Wine – has entered the world during Colin’s retirement, its making is the result of decades of experiencing, and observing, the kaleidoscope of activity that we call ‘life’.
Colin Hill continues to live in ‘The Black Country’, though his heart is in Normandy – the backdrop to his many adventures with canine pals Hector, Jason and Henry.
Further books are planned. A second collection of short stories is nearing completion. And a further memoir, The Halcyon Heart, dedicated to the adventures of Golden Retriever, Henry. A book of poetry, Steps to Heaven, will reflect on life’s vicissitudes. Finally, and nearing completion, is a charming book of poetry dedicated to cats – in particular, our cats – Cat Crazy.
Enjoy ‐ and watch this space!
