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It’s the publication that is so good that it ganders two book launches.

Blimey.

And if you promise to be on your best behaviour and don’t neck all the posho crisps, you could probably just about get away with attending both local lavish occasions. I certainly intend to dine out on a fine diet of salt and vinegar kettle crisps, cheesy sticks and white plonk over the coming weeks.

And the occasion for such lavish indulgence? The launch of Martin Newell’s latest publication, The Stars on a Tray – selected writings from Mr Mule’s Saturday column in the East Anglian Daily Times.

Spreading his love, as ever, Mr Mule is celebrating the occasion here in Wivenhoe, as well as down the road in Sunny Colch. Thursday 3rd November at the wonderful Wivenhoe Bookshop is the first sitting for the Kettle crisps.

You can then munch away to the sound of Mr Mule reading some twenty-four hours later at the golden goose of firstsite down the road in Britain’s Oldest Recorded.

The writings draw upon the work that has led the Joy of Essex column to pick up the Columnist of the Year award. Contained within are twisted Essex tales of Old Knobbly, St Cedd’s sandals and Paolozzi’s rural Essex retreat. The film rights alone must be worth a round or two at The Greyhound.

The delightful light touch front cover is instantly recognisable as the work of local artist Hillary Lazell. Never judge a book by its cover etc, but the poster girl just about the gets the nod over the rugged good looks of Mr Mule.

Stars on a Tray is the first publication from the new Autumn Girl venture. Copies will of course be available at both the Bookshop and firstsite. Kettle crisps come at no extra charge.

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