A tale of survival, love, hardship, family, heartbreak and triumph.

This is the incredible story of 89-year-old Chelsea Pensioner Sergeant Major Colin Thackery who, in 2019, made history by becoming the oldest person to win Britain's Got Talent. The show gave a glimpse into Colin's history, but the truth of his unique and eventful life is far more gripping and surprising than viewers could have imagined.

Enthralling, poignant and inspiring, this book tells Colin's story, from being a child helping Air Raid Wardens during The Blitz, through fighting in the Korean War, touring the world with the army, becoming a widower after 66 years of marriage, life as a Chelsea Pensioner and touching the nation's hearts with his show-winning singing in honour of his late wife, Joan.

Ultimately, Colin's story is a tale of triumph: of resilience in the hardest of times; of hope in the face of despair; and of everlasting love.

About the Author

Sergeant Major Colin Thackery is a Chelsea Pensioner and the winner of 2019's Britain's Got Talent. Colin won the nation's heart with his show-stopping in remembrance of his late wife, Joan. At the age of 89, he is the oldest person to win the show.

Born in Camden in 1930, Colin was evacuated to Luton where he hitchhiked back to London and helped Air Raid Wardens during The Blitz. In 1945, he joined the army where, whilst on a posting to Durham, he met Joan, the love of his life.

Colin toured the world with the army for 25 years. He fought in the Korean War and endured horrific conditions, from being shot at and ambushed, to suffering frost bite. After his 25 years service, he and Joan settled in Norfolk to raise their family and perform at local theatres. In 2016, after having previously beaten cancer, Joan passed away. Devastated, Colin decided to become a Chelsea Pensioner. After entertaining fellow residents at their regular curry night, he was persuaded to sign up to Britain's Got Talent.

Singing for Joan, Colin won the nation's hearts as well as the series. He was signed to a major record label and, at the age of 89, released his first album.

Book Information
ISBN 9781788402248
Author Colin Thackery
Format Hardback
Page Count 288
Imprint Cassell
Publisher Octopus Publishing Group
Weight(grams) 602g
Dimensions(mm) 238mm * 158mm * 32mm