1st July 2009

At first I hoped that this was some sort of April 1st Joke ... but it's July 1st and it's no joke:

Train robber Ronnie Biggs refused parole: minister

LONDON (AFP) — One of Britain's most notorious criminals, Ronnie Biggs, was refused parole Wednesday by Justice Secretary Jack Straw who said the 79-year-old train robber was "wholly unrepentant".

Straw said Biggs had "outrageously courted the media" during more than three decades on the run after escaping from prison in 1965, where he was serving a 30-year sentence for his role in the 1963 Great Train Robbery.

In a statement, Straw said: "Mr Biggs chose to serve only one year of a 30-year sentence before he took the personal decision to commit another offence and escape from prison, avoiding capture by travelling abroad for 35 years whilst outrageously courting the media.

"Had he complied with his sentence, he would have been a free man many years ago."

Biggs' lawyer Giovanni Di Stefano told the BBC the decision was "perverse" and "obscene", and said his client was in an extremely frail state.

He said: "He is in hospital, he has a nasal gastric feed, he has had three strokes, he can't walk, he can't talk... all the other (Great Train Robbers) served a third of their sentences. Why should Mr Biggs be different?"

The Great Train Robbery saw a 15-strong gang hold up a London to Glasgow mail train, making off with 2.6 million pounds in the money of the day.

The gang attacked the train driver with an iron bar. The driver never returned to work and died seven years later without making a full recovery. [Mal says: "This shit about the driver has been regurgitated time and time again. It has been proved beyond doubt that the driver died of natural causes that were completely unrelated to the injuries he suffered during the raid, but the press love to bring it up in some vain attempt to justify the ridiculous sentences handed out. I was bashed on the head a number of years ago. When I eventually die will it be linked to that event?"]

Biggs played a minor role [NOTE: "minor role"] in the hold-up but was jailed for 30 years in 1964, but escaped by scaling the wall of the prison and jumping onto the roof of a furniture van.

He eventually fled to Brazil, where he was often pictured in British newspapers enjoying a party, but handed himself over to the British authorities in 2001 and was sent back to jail.

This is a vindictive and spiteful decision by a minister who is obviously completely devoid of the human emotion of compassion. Ronnie "fell out of bed" a few days ago and broke his hip while being guarded by three prison officers. How much more suffering do the government and "Justice" ministers want him to endure before they let him out to die in freedom and peace?

24th June 2009

Congratulations to the following for winning a DVD copy of the new film "STOIC" :

 
23rd June 2009

TOUR DATES:

MANCHESTER
Date: 14 August 2009 Time: 19:30 - 22:30
Location:Hilton Manchester Deansgate Hotel Street: 303 Deansgate Manchester. TICKETS 08450000552 or Email: booking@johnpaulemp.co.uk The Dave Courtney tour will be a fantastic night with some of the whos who of Britains underworld being interviewed LIVE on stage. These will include interviews from Howard Marks, Carlton Leach & Jason Marriner

BRISTOL
Date: 12 August 2009 Time: 19:30 - 22:30
Location: Bristol Marriott Hotel City Centre, Street: Old Market, 2 Lower Castle street.
BS13AD. TICKETS 08450000552 or Email: booking@johnpaulemp.co.uk The Dave Courtney tour will be a fantastic night with some of the whos who of Britains underworld being interviewed LIVE on stage. These will include interviews from Howard Marks, Carlton Leach & Jason Marriner

LIVERPOOL
Date: 13 August 2009 Time: 19:30 - 22:30
Location: Crowne Plaza Liverpool. Street: St.Nicholas Place, Princes Dock, Pier Head, Liverpool. TICKETS 08450000552 or Email: booking@johnpaulemp.co.uk The Dave Courtney tour will be a fantastic night with some of the whos who of Britains underworld being interviewed LIVE on stage. These will include interviews from -Howard Marks, Carlton Leach & Jason Marriner

BIRMINGHAM
Date: 15 August 2009 Time: 19:30 - 22:30
Location: Hilton Birmingham Metropole hotel Street: National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. TICKETS 08450000552 or Email: booking@johnpaulemp.co.uk.The Dave Courtney tour will be a fantastic night with some of the whos who of Britains underworld being interviewed LIVE on stage. These will include interviews from -Howard Marks, Carlton Leach & Jason Marriner

BLACKPOOL
Date: 16 August 2009 Time: 19:30 - 22:30
Location: Hilton Hotel, Street: Promenade, Blackpool. TICKETS 08450000552 or Email:booking@johnpaulemp.co.uk. The Dave Courtney tour will be a fantastic night with some of the whos who of Britains underworld being interviewed LIVE on stage. These will include interviews from -Howard Marks, Carlton Leach & Jason Marriner

NEWCASTLE
Date: 17 August 2009 Time: 19:30 - 22:30
Location: Hilton Newcastle Gateshead Hotel, Street: Bottle Bank, Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne. TICKETS 08450000552 or Email: booking@johnpaulemp.co.uk.The Dave Courtney tour will be a fantastic night with some of the whos who of Britains underworld being interviewed LIVE on stage. These will include interviews from -Howard Marks, Carlton Leach & Jason Marriner

ESSEX
18 August 2009 ....Time: 19:30 - 22:30
Location: Essex... Venue to be advised! FOR TICKETS CALL 08450000552 or Email: booking@johnpaulemp.co.uk.The Dave Courtney tour will be a fantastic night with some of the whos who of Britains underworld being interviewed LIVE on stage. These will include interviews from - Howard Marks AKA Mr Nice - Carlton Leach & Jason Marriner

AUDIENCE WITH DAVE COURTNEY IN SHEPPERTON....
17th JULY 2009
Tel.........07957 658847 for tickets (which are only £10) or email.....melaniegreening@btinternet.com

16th June 2009

STOIC

Inspired by a real life account of the violence and brutality behind the bars of one of the world’s most notorious prisons, STOIC tells the story of the bloody aftermath of a shockingly violent death at the hands of three infamous hooligans. Shifting between the police interrogation and flashbacks leading up to the event itself, the shocking truth behind what three brutal criminals are capable of is eventually revealed. Starring Edward Furlong (AMERICAN HISTORY X, TERMINATOR 2), STOIC is a gripping, visceral and distressing tale of hard men trapped in an even harder place that will stay with you long after the doors slam shut … I'm lucky enough to have seen a pre-release copy of STOIC and I can tell you it's a film well worth watching. STOIC is Certificate 18, RRP £15.99 and released on 22nd June and to celebrate the release I have secured 5 copies of the DVD to GIVE AWAY. All you have to do is email me by clicking on mal@davecourtney.com with the subject heading STOIC before the end of Sunday 21st June. All entries will be entered into a random draw, from which five winners will be chosen. The winners will be notified and asked for their addresses and the DVDs will be sent next week and it won't cost you a penny. Touch! Please note that the competition is restricted to people with addresses in the UK. GOOD LUCK.

7th June 2009

Tel Currie’s new book Left Hooks And Dangerous Crooks is causing a storm everywhere. The ‘Chaps’ love it and Tel is snowed under. He's in demand for interviews in Ireland, Scotland and even Europe!

My mate Tel let me into a secret today about what’s being planned for this amazing read ... and it’s BIG! But I can’t share the secret with you just yet. I will keep you informed.

Lastly, Tel would like to thank everyone who has bought the book. I must admit (and I’m not just saying this) I have never never read a book like it!. If you don’t have this you REALLY ARE MISSING OUT!

28th May 2009

From Giovani de Stephano:

RONNIE BIGGS:- THE INSIDE STORY BY MIKE GRAY

27 May 2009: Mike Gray the author of the book has an Interview with RTN (Round Town News Newspaper) the largest Ex-Pat newspaper on the Costa Calida (& Costa Blanca) on Monday, June 8th in AMIGOS BAR, San Pedro Del Pinitar, Costa Calida at 2pm and will be having a Book Signing in the Bar as well, following the Interview.

BUY THE BOOK its really good and if you are in Spain at that time listen and go to the bar for a drink and buy the book.

19th May 2009

Dave Courtney & Friends 2009 Tour

With guests FREDDIE FOREMAN, CARLTON LEACH, JASON MARRINER. Members of the audience will have the opportunity to take part in a Question and Answer session.

Friday 29 May at 7.30pm at St David's Hall, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1AH [MAP].

Tickets are £25 Tier 1 & Centre Stalls, £20 All other areas (Plus a £1.50 per ticket booking fee for all credit and debit card transactions.) To book either call the Box Office on 029 2087 8444 or BOOK ONLINE

18th May 2009

On May 22nd, Tel Currie’s long awaited book Left Hooks And Dangerous Crooks is released. It's the story of the fight game - from the start to today. If you read the comments of those who got a pre-read you will see it’s a book not to miss (link)! The truths, the lies, the myths they are all in here.

Tel says: "I'd like to thank Charlie and Veronica Richardson, Roy Shaw, Mike Gray and especially Mal Vango. Here’s what Mal thinks of the book:"

"I have known Tel for years and years .. and then some. He is genuinely respected by ALL the Chaps and has been a trusted confidante to all. Tel was responsible - in the early days - for introducing me to people like Freddie Foreman, Charlie Richardson, Roy Shaw and many other names that you would be very familiar with. Let me tell you that an introduction from Tel to people like that is like getting a personal written introduction from Ronnie and Reggie.

One thing I have learned about Tel over time: he doesn't bullshit. If Tel says something is so ... then something is exactly so! Tel allowed me the privilege of reading this book long ahead of it's release date and I can tell you that it is packed with myth-busting truths, many of which I was completely unaware of. It's a compulsive read. I know 'cos I couldn't put it down.

I don't bullshit either when I recommend this book to you and say that if you buy only ONE book this year then buy THIS ONE!"

 

8th May 2009
 

BRONSON: OUT SOON!

BRONSON is released on DVD and Blu-Ray on 6th June 2009 and the Original Soundtrack is available now. It received rave reviews at the Sundance Film Festival and will be shown in the International Showcase at The 2009 Los Angeles Film Festival. To either pre-order the film or buy the soundtrack follow the following links:

1st May 2009

Charles Bronson has at last been let out of solitary confinement. The parole board met on March 11 and are considering whether to release him on licence. Charlie says he was promised a move to Woodhill (Category A), Buckinghamshire, while the board made up its mind, but he has been moved from his cage at HMP Wakefield to the secure wing of Long Lartin jail in Worcestershire.

Our good friend Mark Fish says: "They've stuck him in Long Lartin and refused to tell anyone he's there. They are trying to put him back in his place after the film and teach him a lesson. They are trying to crack him and make him kick off again. They want to be able to say 'See, we told you what he's like'."

Bronson's latest book, Diaries from Hell: My Prison Diaries, is released today.

14th April 2009

I know that a lot of people swear by their knuckleduster in a fight, but get caught with one in your possession in a public place (even if it's in your car) and it'll cost you 6 months of liberty. I've had a metal kubotan on my keyring for years and it's a great instrument for self defence against most attacks, believe me. The problem is that I always have to leave it in the car when I go clubbing because it always sets the club's metal detectors off. Recently I came across Elite Kubotans, who sell a very hard polymer version that's just as good as my metal one. They even have one made of para-cord that is just as effective but far less likely to be taken away by over-zealous guards. Learn to use one and you'll persuade most hard-nuts to leave you alone. If you're not convinced about kubotans then just watch the following two videos:

and just to prove that the last guy, Master Angelo, is no pratt, watch these:

I wouldn't want to be his sparring mate!

22nd April 2009

STATEMENT FROM GIOVANNI DI STEFANO LAWYER FOR MR. RONALD BIGGS

"The Home Office have today served upon me the final disclosures for Mr. Biggs in compliance with the current legislation and for the Parole Board hearing tomorrow. I am pleased to confirm that the recomendation from the Probabtion and Assessment Groups are to RELEASE Mr. Biggs on parole on the due date of July 3rd, 2009. The Parole Board will meet tomorrow morning and decide instantly after consultations. The decision will be communicated to Mr. Biggs by fax and to me by email. The release of Mr. Biggs will be to a nursing home as he requires 24 hour medical care following his several strokes. I am deeply obliged to the Justice Minister for not contesting my submission that Mr. Biggs should be treated in accordance with the 'old law' of 1968 (one third parole) as opposed to the current legislation of serving half the sentence prior to parole. That has invariable saved Mr. Biggs a further five years in custody and allows him to spend his days with his family as a free man after having paid his debt to justice. I also have to thank the Parole Board and the Administration at the Justice Department that have co-operated with me ensuring that each and every document was disclosed on a timely basis and answering my myriads of questions. I also have to thank 39,776 ordinary citizens of the nited Kingdom who wrote, faxed, emailed, signed the petition on our website in support of Ronnie Biggs. They were the true victims of the so called 'Great Train Robbery' and it is they that have spoken by supporting his release."

12th April 2009

RONALD BIGGS PAROLE

The following is an announcement by Giovanni di Stephano:

" I am pleased to confirm that the Parole Board will meet on the 23rd April 2009 at their London HQ to decide on the above matter. Mr Biggs will be notified the same day and a decision made that very day regarding the date of release. The earliest date of release is July 3rd 2009. I have attached below a copy of my submissions to the Board."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD SUBMISSIONS [.docx file]

11th April 2009

A little bird tells me that there is a rather rare autograph of Lenny "The Guv'nor" McLean up for grabs over on Ebay. I can't remember the last time I saw one of those for sale, so, if you're interested take a look by clicking HERE. There's only a day left to bid, so don't waste time.

8th April 2009

The Author Mike Gray of the new Ronnie Biggs book "The Inside Story" was placed under "House Arrest" on Saturday, as he signed copies of his book in Dorest.

Mike (Also the Organiser of The Free Ronnie Biggs Campaign and close family friend of Ronnie & Michael Biggs) was suprised to find a retired Ex- CID Detective gate crash his book signing, Charlie "Chas" Chase, who arrested the first two Great Train Robbers (Roger Corderey & William Boal in Dorset) in August 1963, arrived to give Mike his full story of events and stayed for almost the full 2-Hour Book signing ?

Mike Gray, who had travelled down to Poole (Dorset) from Epsom (Surrey) was totally surprised, at the Ex-Great Train Robbery DI, taking over his book signing, Mike said "What could I do, I was in a situation where I had to honour my publishers 2-hour signing slot, when in walked "Chas" with his local newspapers reporter & photographer in tow ?

After the 90 minute "Chat" Chas left and also left Mike totally confused, as to why he had shown interest anyway, as the only two points he raised, were that the Train driver was coshed, and that Ronnie Biggs was a "Winner" due to his parole this July.

Mike informed the Waterstones shop Manager, and was told that Chas was a local hero, due to his Great Train Robbery knowledge and exploits, but Detective Chase's knowledge of Mr Biggs, was nowhere near that of author Mike, who mentioned many facts that Chas found amazing, and repeated on more than one occasion "I didn't know that....."

The Bournemouth Echo reported the Story as follows.........

Great Train Robber author signs book in Poole THE author who has tirelessly campaigned for Great Train Robber Ronnie Biggs’ release had a surprise visit at his Poole book signing.

Former Bournemouth detective Charlie ‘Chas’ Case, who made the first arrests of the audacious heist that stunned a nation in the summer of 1963, decided to pop along after reading of the event in The Daily Echo.

The meeting was all the more poignant as wheelchair bound Biggs, 79, who has suffered a string of serious health problems since returning from life on the run in Brazil, is set to be released from prison in three months.

Mr Case, whose attitude to renegade Biggs has not softened over the years, said: “I thought it may be interesting to meet this author, but I still believe Biggs should have been returned to face justice decades ago.

“Even though a lot of the other robbers had their sentences reduced to 14 years, Biggs is still a winner.

“Understand, it was us and them, and he was one of them, a crook.”

Mike Gray, co-author of ‘Ronnie Biggs – The Inside Story’ and founder of the Free Ronnie Biggs Campaign, was all too happy to make Charlie’s acquaintance, even exchanging notes on the infamous crime.

He said: “Bournemouth has this important link to the Great Train Robbers.

“Two of them were caught and arrested here, by Mr Case, after trying to rent a garage for cash from a police officer’s widow.

“But I have always said that Ronnie Biggs was being slowly crucified on the Home Office cross, and now we have been officially informed that he’ll be paroled.”

The two men Charlie arrested, Roger Cordrey and William Boal, were later sentenced to a total of 44 years.

Meanwhile, Ronnie used a rope ladder to escape from Wandsworth Prison and eventually fled to Brazil where he spent decades as a fugitive from British justice.
After suffering three strokes, he returned, voluntarily, to Britain in 2001, where he was immediately arrested and imprisoned.

Biggs was originally sentenced to 30 years for his part in the robbery of a Glasgow to London mail train – when he is paroled he will have spent just 10 years behind bars.
The 15-strong gang escaped with a record haul of £2.6 million in used bank notes.

Mr Case said: “If it wasn’t for the fact they used violence I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall while the robbery happened. It must have taken military precision.”
Underworld rumours persisted for years that £50,000 of the stolen money was stashed somewhere in Bournemouth – a house in Westbourne was partly demolished following a tip-off in 1974, but no cash was found.

"RONNIE BIGGS- THE INSIDE STORY" PUBLISHED IN FEBRUARY 2009, TELLS FOR THE FIRST TIME ABOUT RONNIE BIGGS TREATMENT IN HMP BELMARSH & NORWICH, SINCE HIS UK RETURN IN MAY 2001, MIKE GRAY VISITS BIGGS EVERY TWO MONTHS AND HAS DONE SO FOR THE PAST 8 YEARS AND STILL DOES SO TO THIS DAY- BIGGS IS DUE FOR PAROLE ON FRIDAY, JULY 3rd THIS YEAR.

SHOULD FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE AUTHOR (MIKE GRAY) OR INTERVIEWS/BOOK SIGNINGS/BOOK PRESS RELEASES BE REQUIRED, PLEASE CONTACT JACKIE BRIGHT AT APEX PUBLISHING (WWW.APEXPUBLISHING.CO.UK)

25th March 2009

EXCLUSIVE NEWS JUST IN: After a lot of persuading, our close pal Tel Currie will be signing copies of his and Mike Gray’s book ‘Ronnie Biggs -The Inside Story’ at Waterstone's in Cheltenham Gloucs this Saturday 28th March from 11am-1pm. This is the one single signing Tel is doing, he will be doing no more after Saturday so get down there!!!!

20th March 2009

Dave Courtney OBE to host charity event 5th April Aquarium Nightclub London

Friends and fans will be interested to hear that they will soon have the opportunity to join Dave Courtney OBE, who will be hosting a family, charitable event on Sun, April 5th 2009, 2pm-8pm at The Aquarium Nightclub, Old Street, London, EC1 in association with Free Spirit/Hidden Talent to promote the awareness of the Women’s Aid Organisation, supporting women and children suffering domestic abuse and violence.

Suzy Quatro and live bands will also be performing at this event. Tickets only £5!!! Buy them on the door of the Aquarium. Hope to see you there!

11th March 2009

The following message comes from Michael Grey:

I have spoken to Giovanni Di Stefano, who tells me that Ronnie's parole hearing is set for July 3rd. So we are all hoping and praying that the Parole Board will decide to release him at last on that day, as he will of completed 10 of his Original 30 Year sentence. It would be a superb 80th birthday present for him on August 8th.

Tel and I hope that our new book The Inside Story has helped raise awareness in the UK/world to Ronnie's current situation, and since starting these book signings five weeks ago, its amazing how many people ask me if Ronnie is still alive ?

JULY 3rd - Let's see the gates of HMP Norwich open, with Ronnie in his wheelchair, as he was pictured eight years ago in Rio De Janeiro airport returning home. But this time as a Free Man (apart from his electronic Tag).

Mal, once again I would like to thank you for your superb web skills and journalistic skills in promoting Ronnie's plight. Even back in 2001 you were a strong supporter and have been loyal to us at the Free Ronnie Biggs Campaign and continue to be loyal and honest.

Tel Currie and Michael Grey will be at Waterstone's, 76 High Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1EJ [MAP] between 12 and 2 pm on Saturday, March 21st for a book signing of their new book The Inside Story, so please go along and support them and show your support for Ronnie. You know it makes sense!

5th March 2009

I get a lot of emails from you asking about viruses, trojans, scams, malware, spyware, etc. etc. Most of them ask about the best programme around to beat them. Unfortunately, I don't have the time to reply to all these queries individually, so to save me disappointing you all I decided to put this on Dave's site and try to give you the benefit of my experience.

I've tried most of the popular anti-virus software over the years. McAfee (not worth the money), Norton (eeeeek! Norton has cost me all the data on TWO hard discs!), AVG (sure, it's free ... but you get what you pay for). They all get a "C Minus" from me.

As you may know, I design and run a lot of websites and my PC is connected to the internet practically 24 hours a day, so protection from all the attacks is of maximum importance. About two years ago I found the ultimate answer to all my problems. An anti-virus programme that does everything I wanted and a lot more. Panda Internet Security 2009 is the ultimate solution as far as I'm concerned. For a start, I don't have to pay for a whole year subscription in one go, it updates itself in the background and it has stopped every single virus that's come my way. It monitors my browsers, emails and PC relentlessly and, several times a day, alerts me to the fact that it has stopped yet another intrusion into my computer (until I loaded Panda I had no idea so many attempts to access my PC were going on). Most importantly, it has a very clever scan of all files and can work out if something is dodgy, even if it's not in it's virus list! The Panda website even has a very powerful FREE virus scanner which will detect anything malicious on your own PC (or Mac if you're that way inclined).

Panda gets the official "Thumbs Up" Award from me and all my pals in the web designing world. Of course, I still look at all the other anti-virus software that's on offer, but nothing so far can touch my Panda Internet Security 2009.

Mal

4th March 2009

The following just in from our great friend Tel Currie:

Hi All,

You may have seen there has been a lot of news about Ronnie Biggs in the media lately ... most of it completely inaccurate!

As you may or may not know, my friend Mike Gray and I have written a book (published by Apex) called 'Ronnie Biggs - The Inside Story'. Using his word board, Ronnie has given us (myself, Mike and often Roy Shaw) THE TRUTH!

1) Ronnie NEVER even set foot upon the train. He was on the grass verge with a spare train driver who turned out to be useless!

2) People constantly say that the train driver Jack Mills was killed by injuries sustained by the train. Mills actually died SEVEN YEARS LATER of LEUKAEMIA. No disrespect, but where is the link to the robbery and Mills tragic death? If he was that hurt, how did he get back behind the train controls and drive it to where Reynolds wanted it when the alternate driver turned out to be useless??? Like it or not ... it was all propaganda!!

3) It is a fact that three of the robbers got away and have not been caught to this day. One of those three was the one who actually coshed Jack Mills ... FACT!! Every the train robber held their silence. Imagine that today: they would be climbing over each over to make statements!!! So, the unlucky ones got THIRTY YEARS for a man who was not even on trial!!

4) In the words of the leader, Bruce Reynolds: "Ronnie was the tea boy" meaning he was at the bottom of the chain! Some reports have Ron as the 'robbery mastermind'. Even Ron laughed at that!

5) The robbery was NOT an armed robbery. Reynolds insisted on NO guns or knives!

6) If Ronnie was a hardened villain, why did he not make money from crime in Brazil, as Charlie Wilson did in Spain (and a lot of others have done all over the world) or ended up in the drug world like Wilson, Tommy Wisbey and Eddie Richardson? He chose instead to make self-deprecating T-shirts and other dignity stripping souvenirs. Unfortunately, that is what made it look like he was taking the piss out of the system. But he was trying to promote T-shirts with things like 'I met Ronnie Biggs in Brazil.' He would rather be self-deprecating than go back into crime!! Ronnie wasn't a villain, he was actually a carpenter.

7) The idea that prison is rehabilitation/change for the better! Ronnie is remembered as a young man climbing over the wall forty-something years ago. Today he is a man who can't talk (he uses a letter board!), can't eat (he is fed through tube in the stomach), can't drink (accept through an intravenous drip!), can barely walk (uses a wheelchair), caught MRSA). How can he be seen as a threat to society today? Even if released, he would be in his own prison but tax payers won't have to pay for it. Can you change more than that?

8) I have talked to many of these idiots that say he should stay in prison. They do NOT know their facts and have done NO research; they are stumped after two minutes of serious debate! You know: EMPTY VESSELS MAKE THE LOUDEST NOISE!!!! Opinions are a reward for knowing your facts: everyone is entitled to them but I believe they should be earned by research! There are so many things I don't know about. So, if it comes to something I don't know, I listen and research. But most people just seem to shout crap out! The facts on here, by the way, come from myself, Mike Gray, Mike Biggs and Roy Shaw who are Ron's most regular visitors. Also, Freddie Foreman (who hid all the train Robbers and got them out of the country). Fred knows and knew EVERYONE ... but he had never heard of Ronnie. Just proves how big a villain Ron was!

Bruce Reynolds, ALL the 'Chaps' and even screws on visits don't think he should be in there! We ALWAYS question the screws and they always say that they never believe he should be in there!!

9) The system will wait until IT know Ron has got about three weeks left ... and then release him on "compassionate grounds". That way they look humane and Ron's out of their hair! The same thing happened with Reg Kray (strangely, also in Norwich!) and NOT ALL the train robbers served 30 years: 'Buster' Edwards got 15 years but never served it all.

10) Just to let you know, there is a lot of talk about Ron's so called 'friends' taking bribe money to make sure Ron didn't change his mind and got on the plane, while knowing that he was going straight to prison! A LOT of 'Heavy Duty Chaps' have the hump and say Ronnie was handed over like a cow for cash!!

Thank you to Mike Gray, Mike Biggs, Ronnie Biggs, Roy Shaw, 'All the decent chaps' and a man I really admire - Mal Vango! Without him our messages - whether you like them or not - would not so easily be published. Mal is as important as anyone I have already mentioned. He is a gem NOT to be taken for granted. If you want to meet a man who knows and is trusted by everyone with every secret ... Mal is the man!

'RONNIE BIGGS - THE INSIDE STORY' by Tel Currie and Mike Gray - foreword by Michael Biggs, published by Apex is out now. Check these two links:

http://www.apexpublishing.co.uk/PubDetails.asp?Num=198

and

http://www.apexpublishing.co.uk/pubdetails.asp?Num=197

3rd March 2009

Tyrone Briscoe CURRENT WORLD, EUROPEAN & BRITISH KARATE CHAMPION! SPONSOR NEEDED...

Tyrone Briscoe is aged 13 & already become the current world, European & British karate champion. During the past two years Tyrone has fought nationally & Internationally, he is fast becoming a force to be reckoned with and being talked about all over the world from Japan to Australia. Being invited by some of the top exponents of karate in the world to train with them. Local press have also begun to do regular articles on him & the rest of the Kaizen ryu squad. Many of the squad have also won titles. Tyrone needs a sponsor, with your support he can achieve even more success & whilst doing so advertise your company, the whole squad can wear your logo on hats, uniform or on the photo advertising and as this goes world wide you will be sure to benefit from this! If you think you can help, please send me a message. Be Lucky, Dave Courtney OBE
 

2nd February 2009

1st February 2009

28th January 2009

Just to let you all know that Tel Currie will be interviewed about his book 'Left Hooks and Dangerous Crooks' on Kerrang! Radio 105.2 FM at 6.30 pm on Wednesday 4th February 2009. Tel will be interviewed on 'The Nick Margerrison Show'. To listen to the show please visit: http://www.kerrangradio.co.uk/

27th January 2009

26th January 2009

25th January 2009

24th January 2009

A UNIQUE, ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY

FOR COLLECTORS OF KRAY MEMORABILIA

REG KRAY'S BRACELET

GIVEN TO HIM BY BRADLEY ALLARDYCE AS A WEDDING PRESENT

Bradley Allardyce attended Reg Kray's prison wedding to Roberta and gave him this solid gold bracelet as a wedding present. It weighs over an ounce and has two large sapphires set into it. On the reverse is inscribed: "GOOMBAH - FROM YOUR SON GOOMBAH". (Goombah was understood by the two to be a New York slang word for a boss in organised crime - specifically a Mafia boss.)

The owner of this unique piece of Kray memorabilia now wishes to sell the item, so we are inviting anyone interested to bid on the item. It is 100% genuine and has been a treasured possession of the seller, who bought it after Bradley pawned it (Allerdyce got it back from Reg just before Reg died in 2000).

We already have interest from collectors who have heard that it is for sale. An offer of £1,000 has been made, so bidding starts at £1,050. If you wish to make a bid then email mal@davecourtney.com now with your mobile number and bid so that we can contact you. All genuine bidders will receive updates on how bidding is going on a daily basis. Bidding will stop at MIDNIGHT on Sunday 1st February 2009. The winning bidder will pay the courier charge and insurance and will be informed of the current owner's identity.

It is doubtful whether this piece (or anything of similar personal nature to Reg Kray) will find its way into public auction again for as very long time, so don't miss out.

22nd January 2009

West Ham take on Millwall. Take a look at THIS from Joe Pyle.

20th January 2009

OPEN and SHUT!

Well, the case opened in Bristol Crown Court today and closed. The first four and a half hours were taken up with legal arguments. "How do you plead?" asked Judge Ticehurst.

"Not Guilty" replied Dave.

"Errrr ... you can't plead Not Guilty Mr. Courtney!" said the judge.

"Why not?" asked Dave. "Surely it's every man's right to plead Not Guilty in this country?"

It hinged around technicalities. The Judge said that because Dave had signed a piece of paper umpteen years ago to say that he would not carry guns or ammunition he could not plead Not Guilty, as he had been found with said objects on his person and this fact was not in dispute. So, there was then a huge legal rangle about the Justice System and a man's right to plead not guilty.

This case goes back to October 29, 2007, in Lewins Mead, Bristol, when Dave was stopped by Old Bill because the red BMW he was in had the licence plate: BADBOY1. OB searched Dave and his Beamer and found live ammo in his pocket and a number of prop weapons in the boot.

Dave's counsel, Donal McGuire, told the judge that Dave was heavily investing his time in community projects, charities and had a message for the youth of today that "crime doesn't pay" and presented him with several charity and MP's references.

The Judge agreed to drop all charges except one: possession of a single bullet in his pocket. Dave said "Guilty" and Judge Ticehurst said: “I accept the item was intended for your stage performance. I accept you were genuinely amazed to discover the ammo was live" and gave him an 18-month conditional discharge and ordered him to pay £750 costs within 21 days.

All Dave has to do now is stay out of trouble for eighteen months! That said, it's a great result because it means that Dave won't have trouble visiting America in the future. RESULT!

I would just like to thank all of you who emailed myself and Dave with wishes of good luck. It means a lot to know that so many of you are behind him.

19th January 2009

Hello everyone,

After spending the last few hours chatting with Dave about the developments in his Court case he asked me to write this note to you all.

In the months leading up to the case Dave has spoken about what might happen and I found it hard to believe, I didn't doubt Dave, but I was brought up to believe that the British Justice System is something to be proud because it gives everyone a fair and thorough chance of Justice being done, and to realise it isn't gives me a lot of cause for concern, how many innocent people are in prison and how many of the powerful go free? What is happening right now to Dave proves beyond all reasonable doubt that our Justice system CAN be manipulated very easily by those who have the power to do so. Here is what has happened and Dave's thoughts:

1. Daves Crown Court case has been adjourned five times keeping Dave on bail for over a year which has denied him being able to go to America.

2. The Case was supposed to start today (Monday 19th) but was adjourned until further notice last week.

3. The notice came today, Monday 19th, that the trial will begin tomorrow. How is all involved supposed to re-arrange their diaries to fit in with ONE days notice?

4. It is starting at 11.30am, on all 3 days it has been allocated, instead of the usual 10.00am, which is 4.5 hours lost over what is already a short amount of time for this case. The first day (today) will start with signing in the Jury which we easily take up until dinner, probably more. The afternoon will be formalities and opening statements and arresting officer and other officers statements including the officer that has emigrated to Australia. All of Day two will no doubt be for the prosecutions case. Day three will have to fit in Dave's case, summing up and The Jury working out their verdict which probably means Dave will only get a couple of hours at most to state his case but he would like a whole day.

5. Dave's main witnesses, the major part of Dave's defence, are Garry Bushell and Bill Murray. They had both originally booked the start of the week off to be able to attend and testify, they both have appeared in films with Dave and have their own bullets to use as props in the films, the same as the one Dave is being charged with possessing. They cannot appear on the new date, Thursday, because of commitments. They have telephoned and emailed the Court to say they will appear via Video Link or write their testimony so it can be read out in Court but they have been told THIS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED. Dave cannot mention this in court because, for instance, he could say Prince Phillip was due to be his witness but could not make it, or anyone, doesn't hold water. Is it a coincidence that on Garry Bushell's website for the last couple of weeks he has written what he will be doing on Thursday 22nd and that is the day the new court date falls on so he cannot appear and has been refused written or video testimony? Dave cannot state this in Court because it is hearsay. When Dave asked why they cannot send written testimony the answer was 'because they are not allowed'.

If anyone has knowledge of law and any previous cases that have been given ONE days notice and not allowed written testimony from witnesses that unable to attend in person? Please could you email Dave because he, and I, would love to know whether this is a regular feature of Crown Court cases, or is it a rarity, or totally unheard of?

Dave also said "I have complete faith in the British Justice System", with a wry smile.
Fair trial?

All the best,
'The Scarecrow'.
P.S. Shall we adjourn the revolution?
 

16th January 2009

MIKE GREY will be signing copies of his new hard-back book "Ronnie Biggs - The Inside Story", which is published on 6th February 2009. Saturday 7th February Waterstones, Epsom 11am - 2pm. Saturday 14th February Waterstones, Haywards Heath 3pm - 4pm. Saturday 7th March Borders, Southampton 12 - 2pm. Further book signings to be confirmed by Apex Publishing.

24th December 2008

to ALL of YOU from Dave, Jen and Mal

20th December 2008

Finally, we see the cover to Tel Currie's new book, Left Hooks and Dangerous Crooks. I've had the chance to read it cover to cover and believe me, you need to read this book! You can read about it and the letter that Tel received from Ronnie Biggs by CLICKING HERE.

28th October 2008

22nd October 2008

REMIX, 20-21 Hermitage Road, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1BT [MAP]

20th October 2008

I have always considered Tel Currie as a man in the know and a good friend. Tel has held the trust (and the ears) of ALL the Chaps for years, he doesn't mince his words and he always tells the truth.

Wilf Pine says of Tel: "Tel Currie is the new generation. Tel is 33 years old with the mind of a 55 year old. Unlike many of the new generation, Tel has respect and we all love him. I loved the book 'Heroes and Villains" because it was the absolute truth. Tel Currie is a close personal friend of myself, Roy Shaw, Freddie Foreman, Charlie Richardson, Ronnie Knight, Vic Dark, Ronnie Biggs, Bruce Reynolds, Charlie Bronson, Joey Pyle, Howard Marks, all the gypsy boy's etc, etc... Need I say more? Love ya' Telboy"

Roy 'Pretty Boy' Shaw: "Telboy is one of my very closest friends and I'm not a man to keep a huge entourage around me ... I trust him 100%."

Johnny Frankham 'King of the Gypsies': "Tel is not fake or plastic ... any trouble he's there!

Jimmy Stockin: "We are always here for him and he is always there for us ... RESPECT"

John Knight: "Tel is a great bloke who will do anything for you, as long as you don’t take liberties. My brother Ronnie and I both have maximum respect for him and his old school rules and values."

So, when I was fortunate enough to read early manuscripts of both his new books ('Ronnie Biggs - The inside Story' by Tel and Mike Gray and 'Left Hooks and Dangerous Crooks' by Tel) I realised that a lot of what I thought I knew was wrong and found loads of stuff I didn't know at all! Pretty amazing stuff, considering the size of my own collection of books on the subjects he covers.

I hear from Apex Publishing that the pre-orders flooding into Apex are overwhelming! Now, this is NOT a sales pitch ... but I strongly advise anyone with an interest in the British gangland scene to pre-order NOW by clicking on the links above!

Now I've finished blowing Telboy's trumpet, here's what he has to say about me:

"Mal has been more than a web master for most of us; he has been a solid, staunch, reliable and loyal friend to most of us, the rock we can lean on. The work he does is brilliant!

"He is an all round underrated man, but most of us know how strong he is. You will always get the big gob, threatening, bullying 'I will come and cut you up' brigade because they actually think it scares people and people will think they are hard! This just bores Mal, he is solid. It's pretty impossible to dislike Mal and I admire that quality. His web sites are the best and always updated, he is a true professional..... and a true friend!"

What a nice man :-)

17th October 2008

NEED A PROFESSIONALLY DESIGNED WEBSITE?

Mal has a little slack in his workload at the moment (always happens in the lead-up to Christmas). Take a look at his webpage on this site and follow the links to the selection of websites he's designed. Dave Courtney says of Mal "Whenever I ask Mal for the impossible he says NO PROBLEM and it's done." Cass Pennant reckons that his website for the film Cass beat the official website handled by the promoters hands down. Jason Marriner says "I couldn't do it without Mal. He's the best." Dave Lea says "Mal is the best. I couldn't find better over here in the USA so I went to Mal. His attention to detail is second to none. He's done me proud."

So, if you would like to talk to a professional about your website needs and be amazed that he quotes around half the price of most web design companies then start the ball rolling by emailing Mal.

6th October 2008

Our old friend Mark Fish was out on the town in Rotheram with Dave and Jen on Friday and enjoying himself as usual when he felt a little off-colour. Off he went to the bog and threw up ... two pints of blood. "That can't be right" said Mr. Fish and took himself off to the local hospital for a service, where they told him he had a burst stomach ulcer. Well, that pissed Mark right off for a start. It was Friday night and he had a weekend of unadulterated adult fun planned!

"Plug up the ulcer, I've got better things to do than spend Friday night in a sick bed" Mark told them. "I've got other beds waiting for me and this one's needed by proper sick people." But the medical staff insisted on taking blood samples and keeping him prisoner until the results came through.

Then came the body blow: "Mr. Fish" they said "You've had a heart attack at some time in the last week or so!"

"F*ck off" replied Mark. "I think I'd have remembered something like that!" But the enzyme levels in his blood don't lie. Mark had had a full blown heart attack and not noticed. Knowing Mark and his lifestyle as I do, I can well believe that.

He was in typically high spirits and making jokes about everything that had happened when he phoned me from hospital today, but that's Mark. I have threatened to take six burly geezers up there to hold him down while I give him a good kicking unless he mends his ways (any volunteers?). The world needs people like Mark to keep it turning. I'm sure that all of you reading this will wish Mr. F a speedy recovery.

If you want to get a message of support to him (or a threat if you're brave enough) then feel free to email me at mal@davecourtney.com and I'll be happy to pass all of them on to the man.

2nd October 2008

Interested in booking An Audience with Freddie Forman, Carlton Leach, Jason Marriner, Big Joe Egan? It just got easier! Clear Perceptions are now the people to talk to for getting all of the hardest of the hard to your venue. Just go to the Clear Perceptions website to enquire.

Clear Perceptions Ltd is a Promotions, Event Management and Security company based in Essex. Clear Perceptions was founded in January 2008 by Carlton Leach and Bill Hickey (who are both Partners of the company). After the success of their first show "Rise of the Footsoldier Official UK Tour-An Audience with Carlton Leach" Carlton and Bill decided to take this show on the road and so Clear Perceptions was born. Since January the business has gone from strength to strength and along with project managing events has also expanded into the security industry with many new ventures on the horizon.......

2nd September 2008

Dave Courtney will be at The Queens Hotel, 274 Marine Road Central, Morecambe, Lancashire, LA4 5BY on the 6th September for "An Audience with Dave Courtney". There will also be a memorabilia charity auction, photos and signings, etc. promoting 'Care for your Schools'. Dave is leading the campaign to raise £10m for all UK schools, the campaign is to assist individual schools to raise an additional £30k per year to help with funding to provide better facilities, which also supports 'Lets Knock Out Bullying'.

Tickets are £10 in advance £15 on the door (availability not guaranteed) Doors open at 8, show starts at 9 (no entry during show) Ticket Hotline: 07944453560

1st September 2008

Tel Currie, Eddie Richardson and Roy Shaw

Our great friend Tel Currie has been busy again. He's written a truly classic book called ‘LEFT HOOKS and DANGEROUS CROOKS’. It’s the one of the best and most thrilling book I have read in years and, being a close friend of Tel’s, I know that it’s ALL TRUE! Read on ...

This book charts for the very first time, the complete TRUE story of unlicensed and bare knuckle boxing. From the great Gypsy showdowns and fighters like ‘King of the Gypsy’s’ Johnny Frankham and Jimmy Stockin through Roy Shaw, Joey Pyle Snr, Alex Steen and the conception of unlicensed fighting and the very first unlicensed fight through Donny ‘The Bull’ Adams, Lenny McLean, Columbo, Harry Starbuck and Cliff Field. The REAL truth about Lenny McLean and Bartley Gorman and what REALLY happened in the epic 3 fight Shaw v Mclean saga. The book takes you through all of Lenny Mclean’s defeats and studies the men who beat him. The book also takes you through the underworld and introduces the reader to Tel’s close friends, some of who he worked for including Charlie Richardson, Freddie Foreman, Ronnie Knight, Howard Marks, Johnny Nash, Carlton Leach, Roy ‘Pretty Boy’ Shaw, Wilf Pine, Chris Lambrianou, ‘Big’ Albert Chapman, Jason Mariner all contribute! The foreword is by Roy ‘Pretty Boy’ Shaw. Follow this link.

Also, Tel and Mike Grey have teamed up to write the official story of Ronnie Bigg’s years back in England after his return from Brazil in 2001. Tel, Mike and Roy Shaw are Ronnie’s most loyal and regular visitors and Ronnie has fully backed the book with a foreword by Ronnie’s son, Mike Biggs.This is a powerful document... And it’s ALL THE TRUTH!! Follow this link.

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