SIR ALAN COCKSHAW - BUILDING BRIDGES - CONNECTING PEOPLE

 SIR ALAN COCKSHAW 

BUILDING BRIDGES - CONNECTING PEOPLE

How to Order

HARDBACK  £25  & UK postage £4.50

By Post: Mail to Lynn Davidson, The Memoir Club, 34 Lynwood Way, South Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE34 8DB cheque payable to Lynn Davidson.

By Email memoirclub@msn.com   OR MOBILE 0755 2086888

Bank transfer details    Lynn Davidson      Barclays

20 83 69        83948145  please insert COCKSHAW as bank reference

Building Bridges - Connecting People is an examination of the life and work of one of the UK’s most distinguished civil engineers. Written in his inimitable style, it is an engaging portrait of a driven man and his charm and lust for life. In this fascinating autobiography, readers will learn about Sir Alan’s early years and his engineering education under esteemed mentors, showing both the highs and lows of a life lived in the spotlight.

 

It is an honest story but also a useful historical document, giving a contemporary account of some major infrastructure developments written from an engineer’s point of view. It outlines the combination of grappling with technical problems, and the added challenges of politics.

 

His forty years of involvement in urban regeneration, vast business leadership experience and local knowledge were invaluable during the regeneration of Hulme and the rebuilding of Manchester city centre.

 

Sir Alan discusses his belief that engineers are problem solvers not problem creators. He emphasizes that the future of engineering requires more cooperation and partnering which would provide huge cost savings and greater efficiencies. He discusses the need for local and central government and the private sector to work together for the benefit of society as a whole. 

AUTHOR

Sir Alan Cockshaw is a highly respected figure in the business world. Born in Manchester he spent his early career in both the public and private sectors. He became the Chief Executive of Fairclough Civil Engineering in 1978 and a Director of Amec in 1982 before his appointment as Group Chief Executive in 1984. In 1988 he became Chairman until his retirement in 1997.

 He was Chairman of Manchester Millenium (1996-2000), English Partnerships and Commission for the New Towns (1998-2001) and Roxboro plc (1998-2002).

He became a Director of Pidemco, Singapore (1991-2001), Director of CapitaLand, Singapore & UK, and the International Advisory Board (2001-2007).

He was Chairman of the Governors of Bolton School (1997-2007) and Chairman of the Major Projects Association (2005-2010).

 He became a fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in 1986 and was President of the Institution of Civil Engineers (1997-98). He holds two Honorary Doctorates from Manchester and Salford Universities.

He was knighted in 1992.

FOREWORD

by

The Rt Hon. the Lord Heseltine CH

It is a curiosity of ministerial life that there is no formal process of training. One day you are a backbencher with a constituency to look after aided by whatever public or private sector experience that preceded your election to the House of Commons. A day later you are seated behind a desk appropriate to the dignity and status as one of His Majesty’s ministers responsible for policy direction over a myriad of issues about which you may have little knowledge or experience. You will of course, have a feel for what your party expects of you! An outside observer may feel that there must be a better way to run a whelk stall.

I revert to the concept of training ministers. If I were to design such a scheme Alan’s book would be required reading. He brings the objectivity of a trained professional to the multi-disciplined challenges of public policy. I share his view that once an objective has been set the first essential is to put someone in charge and create a mechanism to deliver. Results will invariably depend on cooperation between the public and private sectors based on an understanding of the essential contributions that both can bring. He makes the important point that as many of the problems to be solved have similarities abroad it makes sense to see how other countries cope.

There is a fashion to promote recently graduated party enthusiasts to act as political advisers to ministers. I never did that but time and again I appointed advisers to bring their specialist expertise into the heart of the civil service. Alan’s story is a role model of how men and women with proven track records can be attracted into public service for the enrichment of us all.

 REVIEWS 

The best book I have ever read... what it says about leadership is astonishing. In my view, nobody has ever written a book about the construction industry like it. 

It’s also the best love story I have ever read.                           PC

Sir Alan and his wife Brenda have four adult children and live in the Manchester area.

 

MICHAEL SAUNDERS - FROM BARBED WIRE TO MOORLAND

MICHAEL SAUNDERS - FROM BARBED WIRE TO MOORLAND

Proceeds from the sale of books will go to Médecins Sans Frontières.

How to Order

HARDBACK  £14.50  & UK postage £3

SOFTBACK £9.50  & UK postage £3

By Post: Mail to Lynn Davidson, The Memoir Club, 34 Lynwood Way, South Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE34 8DB cheque payable to Lynn Davidson.

By Email memoirclub@msn.com   OR MOBILE 0755 2086888

Bank transfer details    Lynn Davidson      Barclays

20 83 69        83948145  please insert SAUNDERS as bank reference

AUTHOR

Michael Saunders has led a full and varied life, dominated by roles as a medical neurologist and an Anglian priest. His journey is both challenging and at times painful as he discusses his personal battle with a slow progressive form of muscular dystrophy leaving him as a full time wheel-chair user.

The author shares his life story and reflects on a time of transition in medicine and the practice of Christianity. He is open about his struggles with mental health and the movement from an exclusivist conservative evangelical version of Christianity to religious pluralism. This book emphasises the importance of intellectual honesty in any journey of self-discovery.

Michael is a retired consultant neurologist and Church of England priest. He spent many years in both roles simultaneously and has worked predominately in North East England and North Yorkshire. He spent a short time as a medical missionary in South India before returning to the UK through ill health. He is married to a retired psychiatrist and has four adult children and lives in the Yorkshire Dales.

AUTHORS WIFE, CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN

This book is the story of a life starting on the South Coast of England just before World War Two and nearing completion in a historic small market town in North Yorkshire, at the foot of beautiful moorland, in the 21^st century. The period represents a time of transition for the three most important things that have fashioned me. These are religion, medicine and a progressive muscle disease that has resulted in disabilities. I describe my religious and spiritual journey to ordination as an Anglican priest and subsequent ministry, life as a medical neurologist, and the diagnosis and progression of a form of muscular dystrophy.

The practice of formal Christianity has declined in the West. All-embracing dogmatic frameworks no longer impact on the majority of people. Advances in science challenge forms of religion that do not adapt to new knowledge. Young people have difficulty connecting with the established Church in the United Kingdom that is unable to embrace issues related to human sexual orientation and gender identity and at the same time unable to deal effectively with institutional sexual abuse. Increased global awareness has unveiled the challenge that other great faiths bring to Christian exclusivism. Instead of a move towards Christian liberalism, there seems to be a retreat into conservative Christianity during my lifetime. Large ‘successful’ churches may appear to suggest a general flourishing in churchgoing, but this is illusory. We live in a secular state. I describe my struggles with dogmatic Christianity, leading to a more open faith. I conclude that the majority of people who describe themselves as Christians are not within the walls of Christendom in the country I inhabit.

The practice of medicine has changed dramatically due to scientific progress. Many diseases are now treatable, and life expectancy has increased globally, but unequally. The advent of new imaging techniques and laboratory advances makes disease diagnosis more straightforward and accurate. Discoveries in genetics have enabled better classification of groups of disorders and novel treatment options. The development of vaccines has reduced the impact of some infectious diseases and eradicated smallpox. Yet, other new infections have occurred, including AIDS and the Covid pandemic. The discovery of antibiotics has reduced the mortality and morbidity of bacterial infections, although antibiotic resistance has emerged as a challenge to their effective use.

Society takes a more enlightened attitude towards people with impairments and disabilities. Advances in equipment design and development have reduced handicap, and there are more accessible buildings. Legislation has enhanced progress.

Unfortunately, aids for people like myself, with muscular dystrophy and other neurological diseases may be expensive and unavailable through the National Health Service. Self-funding or charitable donations fill the void in service provision.

My family has been my inspiration. I pay tribute to their love and support through good times and bad. They may not share my opinions all the time, but we have discussed and argued in a way that only families can. Although my days have been happy, privileged and fulfilling, there have been periods of difficulty and sadness. Although it is tempting to omit such episodes, they are part of me. There is no point in recalling a sequence of events without reflection, but I have tried to place any sorrows in perspective. I have seen enough poverty and suffering in this world to realise that I have lived a good life, full of interest and meaning. 

REVIEWS

I read Michael’s earlier book from Certainty to Mystery because initially I was particularly intrigued by the title. It then became very clear that this was the Michael that I had known in the late 1950s early 60s. I renewed contact with Michael mainly because I identified with his faith journey. We had both been part of a lively Baptist youth group in Hove which we are both very grateful for but now for different reasons our personal journeys have taken us from a faith that was certain, sure and clear cut to one which is happy to embrace mystery and uncertainty.

I have just read Michael’s autobiography from Barbed Wire to Moorland which is remarkable in the detailed memories that Michael has of both his early life until the present time . The early influence of family school and church life are clearly recorded and thoughtfully analysed. Michael is now in his mid 80s, but his memories are clear and detailed and he recalls clearly the influences that have been powerful for him over the years.

Michael from early days has struggled with significant health issues and with his mental health. This in no way has distracted from a long and distinguished career as a neurologist and latterly as a Church of England priest. In fact it seems to me it has enriched him. I was fascinated to read about his experience of working in India and how that was a pivotal period for rethinking so much about his evangelical understanding of Christianity.

I am full of admiration that he continues to think and write despite increased disability because of his progressive muscular dystrophy. As we go through life, we have the opportunity to learn from all our different experiences if we’re willing to allow them to teach and change us - this is exactly what Michael has done and I’m grateful for his latest book and warmly recommend it.

Sue Saville

Dr Martin O'Dell - MAKING A DIFFERENCE - A CIVIL ENGINEER'S WORLD

 

How to order

MAKING A DIFFERENCE - A CIVIL ENGINEER'S WORLD

HARDBACK 250 photographs in text 393 pages

UK

                   HARDBACK £22  & UK postage £4.50

By Post: Mail to Lynn Davidson, The Memoir Club, 34 Lynwood Way, South Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE34 8DB cheque payable to Lynn Davidson.

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Conquest of the 7th continent

The family: Rowan, Oscar, Kylie and
Nicholas at back with Robyn, Ava and myself seated

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                                   REVIEWS: 

Making a Difference is highly recommended reading.   S M Braint

Few books about engineering engage the general reader. Engineering work is considered too specialized for the general reading public and engineers are given little credit for the work they do. Or as Martin O’Dell writes, while medics deservedly get praise, ‘engineers often go unsung’. Making a Difference is the exception.

Meet the engineer who sets out to rectify the omission, an attitude that reflects his approach to some of the most daunting engineering projects around the world. If there is a problem: solve it. If something is lacking: fill the gap. If the dam wall leaks fix it. 

Martin O’Dell, a civil engineer, has written a compelling adventure story about his work in twenty-one countries, constructing, amongst other things, mega-sized dams, sewerage plants, and village water supplies. The word ‘adventure’ is used advisedly. One of the most attractive features of the book is the way it generates the author’s enthusiasm and optimism about the countries he visits, even in the face of physical danger and bureaucratic procrastination. Life is an adventure full of challenges and opportunities and he meets life full on. The result, as the title promises, is that he has made a difference to the lives of millions of people. 

It is a transformative book. After reading, you can never again take for granted having a shower, flushing the toilet, or turning on the tap for a drink of water. What is a ‘norm’ for us, however, has been denied to so many communities around the world. Martin O’Dell and his teams set out to make these basic amenities possible, bringing sanitation and water to underprivileged peoples, changing their lives forever.

While this book deals with the technological problems involved in building dams and sewerage systems (quite a specialized interest) it is above all a book about people. Throughout his career, Martin consulted with local engineers and local communities as an essential part of his projects. He was always conscious that no job could be satisfactorily completed without the aid and co-operation of local expertise.

He listened to what people wanted and when engaging with a new project readily accepted advice from local experts. People were central to success, whether it was co-operating with Zulu Chieftains in Southern Africa, or members of the Snowdonia Board in North Wales, or the Palestinian Surveyor (Abdul Latif) in Saudi Arabia. 

Martin was appointed the Deputy Project Manager for building the Mudhiq Dam in Saudi Arabia and he gives a telling insight into the complexities of such an undertaking: ‘…roads and tunnels; bridges; huge concrete pours; large-scale mechanical works; major temporary works; building works; survey and monitoring; and the need for innovative design.’ 
One of the more distressing aspects of his work was learning to accept the customs of societies very different to his own. For example, the occasions when he was faced with what to him were draconian Sharia laws that could not be appealed. ‘The right hand was amputated for theft. For murder, rape, or drug offences the sentence was beheading.’  He reports the situation with a typical dry, ironic humour: ‘“Chop square” saw action on many Fridays.’

Dr Martin O’Dell was no armchair academic. During his late adolescence, with few academic qualifications to his name, he was at a loss as to what career path to follow. A chance encounter with his school’s Deputy Head turned out to be fortuitous: ‘You are good at Latin, Larry (his nickname), so why not consider civil engineering?’  Quirky advice and he never did understand the link between Latin and engineering.  But the world can be grateful that he took up the challenge.   S M Baint
 

If you are technically minded, about to embark on a career, and fancy seeing the world, then Dr Martin ‘Larry’ O’Dell takes you through an outgoing, challenging life as a civil engineer lived in many countries around the world where clean water supply or sewage management have required civil engineering expertise. 

Lucky to have survived his early years after a golf club caved-in his skull, and a lesser, but significant accident when his ankle completely snapped, he went on to test his luck further by escaping perilous risk when leaping from a bucking survey ship in raging seas onto a Liverpool dockside.  With an adventurous spirit he went on to put his engineering skills to effective use in several countries both before and after emigrating to Australia where he met his wife, Robyn.
 
He summarises his working career as around 25 years spent away from homes in  UK and Australia, on engineering projects in well over a dozen countries/regions ranging from Wales/ Saudi Arabia/ South Africa/ Indonesia/ IndoChina/ China and various Pacific islands finishing on Samoa, and on projects ranging from large dams to both major city and minor village water/sewage developments. So, the book title “Making a Difference” is well justified.  Alan Bayly                                                       
Stephen Henningham (Historian and Author) who, some years ago, as Australian Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and as Australian High Commissioner in Samoa gained some sense of the challenges and achievements of Dr O’Dell and his colleagues in those countries.
 

That Dr Martin (Larry) O'Dell has made a real contribution and difference, both in his profession and more widely in community affairs, is well appreciated by his many friends and acquaintances, but many of us have been sketchy about the details. So, it is good news that he has set out the story so far. And this well written and presented book certainly does not disappoint indeed, it is of great potential interest to many people beyond those who have had the good fortune to be acquainted with him.

After some career false starts (forestry, anyone?), and encouraged by a helpful schoolmaster, the author settled on civil engineering, attaining a first degree and then a PhD, and specializing mainly in water storage and supply and wastewater and sewerage management. In a long and varied career, extending well beyond the usual retirement age, he had the privilege and faced the challenges of working in demanding environments across the world. And meanwhile, he fitted in much travel and many adventures. 

Some autobiographies charting a professional life are addressed to a narrow readership. Not so this book. There is fascinating detail on engineering projects and challenges, but the language is clear and non-technical, and thus accessible to the layperson, and there is much else in the book to interest, inform and amuse.

Some autobiographies get bogged down in too much detail but this one cuts to the chase, while nonetheless presenting many insights.  We learn how the author, with others, contributed to the improved management of dredged silt in the Mersey estuary, resulting in significant cost savings; how to spit roast an ox African-veldt style, even if the improvised roast equipment sagged a little; and how the author confirmed the characteristic concave/convex shape of high sand dunes by driving rapidly up one side and then flying (literally) down the other (don’t try this at home).
Some mysteries remain however, including the connection between Latin proficiency and the discipline of engineering – is it to do with discipline and attention to detail? – and whether elevated nocturnal champagne consumption is an effective prophylactic against a nasty African waterborne disease.

Some autobiographies make poor use of photographs and other illustrations, but not this one. Numerous illustrations are skilfully integrated into the text – many of them author’s own photos – to enhance and illuminate the text.

Some autobiographies are written in a fashion intended to ‘big up’ the role and achievements of the author. Not so this one. Any claims made are backed up with evidence – some of it literally ‘concrete’ evidence, with respect to dams and other structures built. Moreover, this most civil of civil engineers generously acknowledges those who have helped along the way, both in the main text and in an appendix listing several key people. They include, of course, his wonderful spouse Robyn and their impressive sons.
The author’s reflections on and insights into the implementation of development projects in China, Vietnam, Laos, Samoa and elsewhere are of particular interest. As well as technical challenges there were linguistic and cultural issues. And navigating and eventually mastering the arcane bureaucratic forms and procedures of the Asian Development Bank was a further challenge. The author demonstrates that to succeed in this sort of work, high-level professional technical skills need to be fully complemented with cultural awareness and social and people skills.

Sometimes the progress delivered by a successful project was not an unmixed blessing. The author gives the example of the village women who had reservations about the provision of improved water supply when they had been comfortable enough with walking several kilometres to collect water from a well or a river, chatting with friends, exchanging gossip and useful information with the other women, and having a break from their overbearing husbands. Distorted aid donor priorities were also a problem. One example was the funding and building, on more than one occasion, of impressive sewage management works, which could be opened with ribbon-cutting, media coverage, and much fanfare, while the essential task of constructing a sewage delivery system to feed into the works was neglected. 
So, finally, two more points – first, this book would be an ideal gift to a young person embarking on an engineering or related career, especially if they have a sense of adventure and want to work in international locales; and second, it would be a very welcome addition to a personal, school, university or other library.   
 

A wonderfully human story and adventure

I very much enjoyed this book, not only from the Civil Engineering point-of-view, but also from the obvious humanity and care that has been a hallmark of Dr. O'Dell throughout his career. To balance what could be a very dry engineering synopsis if it was just left at that, his introduction and occasional referral to his family, together with his descriptions of the cultures he experienced, made this very much a human story. Dr. O'Dell is in many ways the reluctant hero of this book, but one shouldn't forget the love and support received from his family. His wife Robyn is equally heroic in her dedication to Martin's career, for without this, much of what Martin achieved just wouldn't have happened. As so many reviewers have noted, young STEM students should read this marvellous book to inspire them to aim high in the rest of their professional and private lives.   David Willison

                            Splicing work with adventure

When Dr O'Dell tells you that he didn't really know what he wanted to do before falling into a career he loved, you know you're in for an honest appraisal of how it turned out. This book should be an inspiration to young people looking to splice work with adventure. Each part of his life was a short story in itself, and he covers the places, the people, the projects, the achievements and the challenges with remarkable recall, even when the requirement to keep pace with some cultures' hospitality sometimes caused overnight amnesia. Civil engineering gave him a chance to experience many cultures in interesting parts of the world while earning a salary, and he took full advantage of it. Don't be surprised if you feel a little envious by the end of his story.   Peter Gerstrom

Engineering is Ingenuity

The title says it all, with one man’s hands-on experience, making a huge positive difference working on crucial engineering projects in developing countries. Dr Martin (Larry) O’Dell recounted many interesting facts and insights leading teams involved in civil and hydraulic engineering projects across South Africa, Middle East, Asia and culminating in the Pacific islands over a career spanning 38 years to 2015.

The adventurous spirit and commitment to assist less fortunate societies commenced with Martin (Larry) O’Dell achieving the Queen’s Scout around 1962. That “doing a good deed” scouting theme certainly shines through in Larry’s choice of the civil engineering profession. His organizational and ingenious skills, combined with an affinity for working with cultures of all persuasions has enhanced countless lives for generations in many parts of the world.

This fascinating book Dr. (Larry) O’Dell has written demonstrates his skill and encourages others to follow in providing a healthy world, with basic water and sanitation sortedI found this a fascinating account of a working life well spent contributing in so many ways to the benefit of others. It shows the variety on offer in an engineering career that illustrates a highly rewarding profession in which he combines work, family and friendships. I highly recommend this book as a very engaging and entertaining read and encourage younger engineers to read and discover the many opportunities out there and the job satisfaction that follows. A remarkable achievement.  John F Kell BE (Civil), M App Sc, MICE (ret), MIE Aust

Engineering does not have to be mundane and tedious (although, like all careers, it sometimes is). Dr. (Larry) O'Dell's tales of water engineering planning and projects across many parts of the UK and Asia provide fascinating views of the highs and lows of major projects. The highs are often working alongside the wonderful local counterparts and the lows are usually associated with institutions and bureaucracies - especially where subtle translations are an added trap. The book is an interesting mixture of the personal and professional, and the many photos (of varying quality) sprinkled through the text provide striking interludes in the narrative. If you know a bright young person who is looking for a different type of career, then this book could be an excellent present.   David Hanrahan

An unusual career

A most informative book which combines a lifetime of travelling adventures with international engineering experience. It is well presented, clearly structured and written in a most pleasant way filled with amazing anecdotes. Photographs incorporated within the text enhance the reading experience. In addition, it presents a lot of details for those who are interested in an unusual career.  Dr Bert Gergen
 
Dr O’Dell spent most of his working life as an expatriate engineer in many countries around the world. His book ‘Making a Difference’ describes in detail the work involved, the highs and lows of an expatriate engineer’s life. From personal knowledge Dr O’Dell is an exceptional water/wastewater engineer as is clear from the contents of his book. He worked diligently on many schemes and his professional knowledge resulted in their success. The book reads well and is well illustrated by Dr O’Dell’s personal photographs. I worked in some of the countries where Dr O’Dell worked, and we became firm friends. I too was an expatriate water engineer for over 30 years. Dealing with numerous clients with differing objectives is not easy but Dr O’Dell patiently overcame many of these obstacles before the schemes were completed. The detail of his work is well documented in his book and needs no further comment.
My final comment is that Dr O’Dell did make a difference to many communities around the world. He should be proud.   John Sinclair MICE, FIWES (retired).

For those with experience or interest in water engineering this is a fascinating read of a lifetime "making a difference" to the water supplies in many locations throughout the world particularly in developing countries. Dr O'Dell recounts his career over almost 45 years mainly for international consulting firms based in the UK and Australia. Much of his experience was in Asia. Many with similar experience will enjoy the nostalgia of work and living in surroundings that are full of unfamiliar and rewarding encounters.
The book is full of details of water engineering projects and the associated interaction with local people and their customs. It is a very personal account which must have given him great satisfaction in recording a lifetime helping to improve the lives of those in need and his appreciation of the relationships with all those he worked with. Written in a very readable style with much detail but possibly a little too personal by inclusion of his family life and leisure trips which, although important to him, may not be of interest to those who do not know him.  Peter Moody Consulting Water Engineer
 
Dr Martin (Larry) O'Dell has condensed his long and outstanding professional career as a Civil Engineer working in many countries around the world into a truly fascinating and inspiring memoir which will appeal to a broad audience of all ages. It helps us to understand the role of a Civil Engineer and the impact that Engineers can make on the health, prosperity and life of people all around the world, particularly in developing counties in great need for urban and rural infrastructure. It will hopefully encourage young people to take up a career in Civil engineering and to see the world.

Dr O'Dell's important work in some 21 countries on a range of infrastructure projects from the massive scale of large dams and major city sewerage systems to small scale village water supply and sanitation systems is a great credit to him and to the local and international teams working on those projects, often under challenging living conditions. Larry's wife Robyn and their sons Rowan and Nicholas shared these adventures over the years and were a great support.   Geoffrey A Piggott

 
A FASCINATING READ”
A truly remarkable description of the author's journey through life, this book will be of interest not only to engineers but to anyone within travelling & the wider world.   Peter Aylmer
 
This book recounts the adventures of Dr O'Dell, a civil engineer, as he tackles challenging water engineering projects across continents, spanning from the UK to Africa, the Middle East, Australia, and Asia. Alongside delving into the technical aspects of his work, the narrative skillfully integrates interesting anecdotes of his travels and encounters with diverse cultures. Dr O'Dell has clearly greatly enjoyed his lengthy career and can truly take pride in the real difference he has made. As a retired civil engineer myself, sharing similar experiences, I very much enjoyed reading this book. I hope that younger engineers embarking on their career paths discover this book and be inspired to seize opportunities in developing countries and make a difference too.  Richard Baker FICE

This book is a story of one person’s career as a civil engineer working and travelling the world, from the UK to Africa, the Middle East, Australia, and Asia.  Dr O’Dell traces his life and his work as a water engineer, with a very interesting and remarkably detailed narrative of his experiences from being a young 'green' engineering graduate to becoming a sought-after engineering expert and manager.  His narrative brings together the technical aspects of his work, written in a most understandable way for the layman, with the cultural and social aspects of living and working in many parts of the world.  He has managed to illustrate his book with some remarkable photographs covering the length of his career.  He has also managed to bring out his love for his work and the enjoyment and satisfaction he and his family have experienced from his work and travels.

Dr O’Dell’s experiences demonstrate the large scale of opportunities and roles that exist in the civil engineering industry and that the rewards are many-fold - seeing the world, developing lasting friendships and leaving a legacy of improvements to the lives of many.  And it’s not all work and no play. This book provides many compelling reasons demonstrating why a career in civil engineering can be the greatest job in the world.

In total Dr O’Dell worked in 21 countries and travelled through many more. However this is much, much more than an autobiography of projects, countries and dates. It’s a thoughtful insight into the clash of cultures when the less developed world comes up against societies which have been developing since the Industrial Revolution. In the early stages of his career the writer found it difficult working with multilateral banks – “for all their loan conditions, they were unquestionably just banks wanting to loan money. And governments wanted projects with the opportunity to skim off the top. All too often the local contribution to a project would not be undertaken”.

On the Mudhiq dam site in Saudi Arabia, there was another clash of cultures: the French contractor’s distilled spirit “didn’t taste too good” whereas the British red and white wine “using all locally available ingredients was always drinkable”!

Many of us must occasionally ask ourselves the question “did I make a difference?” Having read Dr Martin O’Dell’s book, the answer is definitely “Yes he did”!   Alison & Martin Walshe

 BOOK

From an inauspicious start of not knowing what career to embark on, wading through multiple options and initially receiving uninviting job offers, Martin (Larry) carved out a remarkable life as a civil engineer in the water sector. He worked in many parts of the world, undertaking challenging projects, and meeting engaging people along the way. 

Martin’s memoir weaves the technical aspects of his work with wonderful experiences of living and travelling through countries with diverse political and social cultures.

Martin grew up in St Albans, Hertfordshire in the period after the war when children could be carefree. They were expected to go out and play in the street or the woods from morning until dusk and come home for tea!

There were few restrictions, no one worried, and we were OK. No bike helmets, no concern about hitch-hiking, no seat belts and no drink driving laws! How did we survive?

After six years at university in the revolutionary years of 63 to 69 (Beatles to Woodstock), Martin headed for the big wide world, starting in Africa, and rarely returning to the UK. He met his wife Robyn in Australia and together they explored the world. Two children along the way made travel a challenge on occasion.

Martin and Robyn live in Melbourne close to their two sons and two grandchildren.

Martin and his wife Robyn on an artic adventure

PREFACE

This is an adventure story for surely that is what life is supposed to be. It describes the highlights of my lifetime as a civil engineer in the international arena and the many varied challenges and pleasure opportunities it has afforded. It is a personal adventure starting with the uncertainty of what to do with one’s life, as I imagine many do.

My career spanned the construction of large, heavy civil engineering projects, through to small water supply schemes, engaging closely with village communities. It covered a forty-five-year time period, twenty-seven of those working overseas in twenty-one different countries, contributing to the improved livelihoods of millions of people in the developing world. It also witnessed huge technological changes from slide-rule to laptop.

The engineering projects have been presented in scale, range and the unusual, rather than technical detail. All have had their highlights; few have had downsides.

I have revelled in my career and all the fascinating experiences that have come with it. Such pleasure was enhanced by my wife, Robyn, who was able to embrace the years living abroad, occasionally in difficult circumstances, and who had to put up with me being away from home, sometimes for months on end. Our sons, Rowan and Nicholas, survived their upbringing. They enjoyed their time in foreign countries, what they can remember of it, they certainly added to our experiences.

I have written my story primarily for myself, to enjoy it all over again, and again, and again – with each subsequent edit! It would also be a shame not to document the experiences of a lifetime for children and grandchildren and for anyone else who might be thinking of heading along a similar path. Of course, these are my memories and they may not always be entirely accurate. So, forgive me if anyone believes I have bent some truths, but who lets facts get in the way of a good story.

BOOK LAUNCH, AUSTRALIA,  APRIL 2024

Sir James Carlisle - A Life Shaped by Extraordinary Circumstances

 

How to order

A Life Shaped by Extraordinary Circumstances

                   HARDBACK £20  & postage £4.50

By Post: Mail to Lynn Davidson, The Memoir Club, 34 Lynwood Way, South Shields,         Tyne & Wear, NE34 8DB UK cheque payable to Lynn Davidson.

By Email memoirclub@msn.com   OR MOBILE 00 44 755 2086888

By bank transfer: Lynn Davidson, Barclays, 20 83 69    83948145

SWIFT BUKBGB22      IBAN  GB49BUKB20836983948145

Presentation at Antigua book launch Feb 2024

Sir James and Lady Carlisle after the investiture

Grandchildren

After completing his elementary education at Bolans Public School, Antigua, Sir James was appointed as a pupil teacher at the same school. He continued to study by taking a number of General Certificate of Education Courses by correspondence. Eager to acquire higher education he emigrated to Britain where he planned to work and study. He attended evening classes at the Working Men’s College in St Pancras, London and Northwestern Polytechnic, Kentish Town, London. 

In 1961 he joined the Royal Air Force where he was trained as a medic /decompression operator. While in the military Sir James took advantage of the educational opportunities offered. Following his demob in 1966 he attended the Northampton College of Technology where he took a number of A-level science courses. In 1967 he was admitted to the University of Dundee to study dentistry. He graduated as a dental surgeon in 1972.

He was employed in the National Health Service for seven years before returning to Antigua where he became involved with a number of community and charitable projects. When the first Governor-General, Sir Wilfred Jacobs retired due to ill health, the prime minister recommended him to Her Majesty the Queen to be appointed to the post. He served in this capacity for fourteen years (1993-2007).

 

COAT OF ARMS

Sir James has been the recipient of a number of Honours and Awards:

Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George (GCMG).

Knight of Justice of the Order of St John (KStJ).

Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation (KGN).

Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Sheba (GCQS).

A Banner and Plate of the Order of St Michael and St George. These are permanently displayed in St Paul’s Cathedral, London.

Coat of Arms from the Royal College of Arms, London.

Doctor of Laws ad hominem (LLD) from Andrews University, USA.

Fellowship in Dental Surgery (FDS) ad hominem from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

Centennial Fellow of the Royal College of Edinburgh in 2005. His name is engraved in the Hall of the famous Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

Membership of the British Dental Association.

Fellowship of the International College of Dentists (FICD).

Charter member of the International Academy of Laser Dentists.

Book launch Antigua

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5cy6bNKBxY

REVIEWS/ARTICLES

Thank you for a cannot put down book. Lady Joseph

Sir James what a wonderful book! the talent you have for telling the story impresses and delights! and the very felicitous way you build up the tale is so impressive from the days of what seems like unimaginably dim dreary London of the long-ago with its harsh reception of the courageous souls who came to England's shores and the triumphs which follow this. Excellently excellently done! What a masterpiece, ready for multiple readings. Please permit me to congratulate you. It was thoroughly kind to send it. Grazie grazie grazie. It has a very proud place on my shelf. SO kind. Homage and salutation.  Robert Noel 

I was delighted to receive a copy of your book – fascinating stories! 

Professor Peter Mossley

Office of the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua News Room

 
https://www.facebook.com/OPMAntiguaBarbuda/?locale=en_GB

Former Governor General Sir James Carlisle pens autobiography. Makes Presentation to Prime Minister Browne

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua and Barbuda – 7th March 2024…..Former Governor General, Sir James Carlisle, who served in the post from 1993 to 2007, has penned an autobiography that chronicles his life from humble beginnings to ascending to the office of Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda.

Sir James, accompanied by his wife, Lady Emma, made a presentation of the book to Prime Minister Gaston Browne on Tuesday. He told the prime minister that he had very good reasons for writing the book. It is entitled ‘A Life Shaped by Extraordinary Circumstances’ and it traces Sir James’ life from childhood in Bolans to his journey to the UK and his quest for higher learning, his service in the Royal Air Force and his decision to study as a doctor specializing in dentistry. He later returned to Antigua to open his dental office. He was appointed as Governor General following the death of Sir Wilfred Jacobs.

“I remember after Sir Wilfred Jacobs had passed and I had assumed office, a reporter came to Government House and queried ‘what should I write about him. I know nothing of him (Sir Wilfred). I don’t want that to happen to me. This is my attempt at leaving my footprints in the sand of time,” Sir James remarked.

The former governor general told the prime minister that despite having ‘mobility issues’ he felt that it was important for him to visit the Office of the Prime Minister to make the presentation to him in person.

In response, PM Browne thanked Sir James for the gift of the book and also thanked him for his many years of service to the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

“You have certainly made your mark and it is good that you have documented it as I have seen too many instances of people trying to re-write history. So, where we fail to document, we allow for this mis-interpretation of facts. You are from humble beginnings and have risen to the top office in our country; you have made your contribution and having it documented is a good thing. What is good too is that it is an autobiography written by you so it doesn’t get more authentic than that,” he observed.

The prime minister also expressed the hope that other officials who have made significant contributions would follow the example set by Sir James to write their respective stories. “This would avoid leaving the interpretations to others or having them made the subject of political spin. I must give you credit for having the discipline to actually sit down and write your life’s work. Others have had the ability, but did not possess that discipline which is required to undertake a project such as this,” PM Browne noted.

According to the prime minister, Sir James’ time in office was one of exemplary work and honour that he brought to the office.

Additionally, both Sir James and the PM Browne called on young people in the country to look past their current circumstances and to set themselves lofty goals and to strive to achieve them.

Bolans to his journey to the UK and his quest for higher learning, his service in the Royal Air Force and his decision to study as a doctor specialising in dentistry. He later returned to Antigua to open his dental office. He was appointed as Governor-General following the death of Sir Wilfred Jacobs. “I remember after Sir Wilfred Jacobs had passed and I had assumed office, a reporter came to Government House and queried ‘what should I write about him. I know nothing of him (Sir Wilfred). I don’t want that to happen to me. This is my attempt at leaving my footprints in the sand of time,” Sir James remarked. Both Sir James and PM Browne called on young people in the country to look past their current circumstances and to set themselves lofty goals and to strive to achieve them.’

INSTAGRAM – Faith Smith USA

To hear my father’s story most people wouldn’t believe it. So what should you do when you have had a life shaped by extraordinary circumstances? You should definitely write a book! From being one of the best-dressed children in his village to then losing his father and it all at the age of 5, forced to go barefoot, sell coal and cut sugarcane to help his family survive. Literally fighting against all odds, he managed to turn his days of walking in the slums into 14 years of walking into the Palace of Her Majesty the late Queen Elizabeth ll. My dad went from leaving a country he thought he would never return to, into leading his country. I always say I don’t have a story to tell. Because hearing my father’s life story I’m always like wow, I ain’t got nothing amazing to share.
But you know what? With a dad like mine who needs their own story 😂I just tell his. It’s amazing for the both of us!