'Bucket list' moment for widely-respected Ripon veteran who finally gets his book in Waterstones

After two long years Ripon man John Bell at the grand age of 82 has achieved something truly wonderful, ticking off one of the biggest items on his bucket list.

A respected and well-known local character around the ancient city, John Bell is regarded as a strong pillar of the community who has been so for many years.

He is a member of Ripon Historic Society and a longstanding member of Ripon Rugby Club.

While you won’t find him out on the field these days, he can often be found in the clubhouse with the rest of “The Friday Gang”, discussing the week’s little annoyances.

First book published - A respected and well-known local character around Ripon, veteran John Bell is regarded as a strong pillar of the community who has been so for many years. (Picture contributed)placeholder image
First book published - A respected and well-known local character around Ripon, veteran John Bell is regarded as a strong pillar of the community who has been so for many years. (Picture contributed)

It was during these lively conversations that the idea for the book was born

Now John has written and published a humorous gem of a book.

Called I’ll Tell You What Annoys Me, for just the price of a pint of Guinness you can buy a copy for yourself.

You’re guaranteed a good chuckle as you recognise and relate to John’s many niggles and grumbles.

I'll Tell You What Annoys Me by Professor John Bell is published by Austin Macauley Publishers and is currently in stock at Amazon Books, Waterstones and many other good book stores.

Related topics:
News you can trust since 1836
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice