In his second volume of memoirs, we rejoin Simon as he strives to establish his own identity on a tough, 1970s inner-city council estate following the death of his mother when he was eight. Struggling with body dysmorphia, disability, and paranoia, he encounters ridicule and violence at his flamboyant appearance, whilst remaining determined to somehow find his own tribe.

However, being different is a journey not without difficulties. His fabulous, glittery debut at a church youth club is far from what he anticipated; a visit to the adventure playground becomes more of a misadventure; and a shocking incident at a football match confirms his deepening sense of alienation.

Once more we meet Sid, his ex-RAF tail gunner dad, whose unwavering support for his unusual son is tested with the arrival of punk rock. And we’re at Simon’s side during his first night in a gay club, but will he find the true love that he so desperately yearns within the strobing, neon-lit paradise?

Chucking Putty At The Queen is a heartbreaking, humorous, and courageous exploration of what it takes to be ones authentic self.