THE YEARS BEFORE MY DEATH

The launch of David McPhail’s memoirs, The Years Before My Death,  on Monday night was a buzzy gathering of the Christchurch ‘old school’ of entertainment, along with the original ‘Blanchie’ from the Rangitata.

Jason Gunn from Whitebait TV was an incredibly gracious host welcoming everyone and paying homage to all those old battlers who’d gone before his generation and managed to get their own style of programmes on air. ‘Now’, he said, ‘we’re told where to stand and what to say.’


Ken Ellis, the ‘voice’ of Christchurch radio, launched David’s memoirs with typical flair and humour as only an old mate could do. He encouraged everyone to read the book because they were probably in it. Ken claimed that once he started the book, he couldn’t put it down and recounted a few of the more hilarious escapades. When asked why he asked Ken to launch the book David replied, ‘He fronted my first foray into television comedy. He has supported all my adventures, and like my friends who are here tonight, I love him.’

David, (left with publisher Barbara Larson), spoke briefly, a bit overwhelmed by the occasion and the warmth of everyone there. Most of the guests had known David and Anne for over 40 years – there were plenty of McPhails, including nephews and Anna McPhail, David and Anne’s daughter.

But who were two punters working the room, asking guests to sign their copies, saying that in 20 years time they’ll be able to sell them on Trade Me for a fortune?!