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Stories behind sports headlines told in new book

A book revealing the stories behind some of the best known sports headlines by Scottish journalists has been published.

‘Henrik, Hairdryers and The Hand of God: Extraordinary Tales from the Press Box’ is a collection of more than 70 tales by Scottish sports journalists, including some in the regional press.

The book has been put together by Scottish Daily Mail journalist Brian Marjoribanks as a tribute to his baby son, Andrew, who was stillborn last year, with all proceeds from the book going to Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity.

The book aims to reveal the real stories behind the headlines in sportswriting and broadcasting and has contributions from journalists including Patrick Barclay, Graham Hunter, Tom English and Graham Spiers.

Brian said: “The idea I had was for a book telling terrific sports stories first and foremost, while simultaneously giving the reader a unique insight into a career that fascinates many and enrages even more. I was touched and honoured by the response from my fellow sports writers.

“Each and every journalist kindly donated an article for no charge and it shines through in the book that it is the work of gifted professionals and good people, who love their job, adore their sport and are passionate about what they do for a living.”

Brian and his wife Jennifer, a news reporter for The Falkirk Herald, have since had a baby son, Fraser, who was born in August and is a younger brother to Alexander.

The book is published by Back Page Press and is available from Amazon.