SIMON & SHIRLEY ARE LARGER THAN LIFE AARON’S LEGACY

Comedy

SHIRLEY MCLEAN AND SIMON WEAKLEY , partners in life and writing, aim to combine comedy with their literary endeavours, believing the modern world lacks humour. They assert that those in power dislike being mocked and often suppress debate, leading to a dearth of comedy. The pair reminisce fondly about a time when humour was different and more prevalent.

SHIRLEY, BORN IN MANCHESTER TO JAMAICAN PARENTS IN 1960 , brings a positive outlook and strong imagination to their work, despite having no formal background in writing. Her life experiences, including trips to Benidorm, inspire some characters and settings in their book.

WRITERS A Verse from the Eulogy

SIMON, BORN NEAR LEICESTER IN 1964, was sponsored by the Rover Group to study business and marketing, a period during which he developed a love for Tom Sharpe’s comedy books. His interests in current affairs and business economics contribute to the book’s narratives.

“PIFFLE,” is a humorous take on contemporary issues such as greed, power, incompetence, stupidity, and revenge. The authors acknowledge that those of a modern “woke” persuasion might be offended, but that is precisely the book’s intention. They hope readers will find joy in its humour. Drawing inspiration from the anarchy of Carry-On films, “PIFFLE” features larger-than-life characters encountering unforeseen situations, resulting in intense comedic moments.

Ultimately, Shirley and Simon aspire to bring laughter through their book and provide a comedic reflection on modern society, aiming to entertain and provoke thought in equal measure.

In the 1990s, Aaron Senior, diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, became a beloved star on the BBC Children’s Hospital Series. His vibrant personality and quest for knowledge captivated viewers. After his passing on July 13th, 1998, tributes and donations exceeding £1,000 poured in, supporting Birmingham Children’s Hospital, cancer research, and Edward’s House. Aaron’s father, Denny, channelled his grief into a book of over 600 verses titled “Our Little Man Aaron,” documenting the family’s emotional journey from diagnosis to Aaron’s passing.

The book aims to inspire and support other parents facing adversity. Denny recounts Aaron’s thirst for knowledge and caring nature, emphasising his last poignant message: “enjoy, enjoy.” Proceeds from the book support Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Friends of Brandon Hill, aiding children in the Caribbean. Aaron’s legacy of compassion lives on through these charitable efforts.

In his short life, he was our little man, not a little boy He was writing to the end. His last word was “enjoy.”

That tells its own story. His spirit will live on and on.

Hold the treasured memories. He hasn’t really gone.

“We believe Aaron would be chuffed to know he hasn’t died in vain, and his legacy is helping children near and far, as the world was his passion”.

“Using adversity positively, for me it is a means of coming to terms with such an enormous loss.” Denny Senior.

(Aaron’s parents, Norma, and Denny, promoting the book at the 2024 FOB Charity Gala – Photo against this Aaron’s dad, Denny, reading a story line at the book launch.