Parma Jack was born in Trinidad in the Caribbean, which he – possibly unwisely – decided to leave at the age of one to follow his parents, first to Nigeria and then back home to Britain.

He now lives in Bologna with his Sardinian wife, in less luxury than he would like, and supports one of the rugby teams in the neighbouring city of Parma.  He also supports the Italy national rugby team, having lived in Italy for more than half his life and because his wife is his country. And then he supports the British and Irish Lions as well, since – as George Orwell would have it – the red pillar boxes and suet puddings have entered into his soul. Last but not least, he supports the Barbarians. Because they’re everyone’s team. And everyone’s better for it.

His greatest achievements are having established a good relationship with his wife and dog, and acquiring a few friends in life.

And finishing This Is What We Are.