Steven’s Out and About
At David J. Howe’s book launch “Who Me” — in conversation with Samantha Lee Howe — at the Firepit Gallery, London, in aid of the autism charity Anna Kennedy Online
Tucked away at the end of the North Greenwich Peninsula, just a short stroll from the iconic O2, the Firepit Gallery is fast becoming one of my favourite places in London. It’s not just the remarkable art on display that draws me back time and again, but the warm, creative energy that fills the space. The gallery, lovingly nurtured by its owner Marcus Jake, has quickly become a safe and welcoming haven where artists, writers, performers, and makers gather, collaborate, and feel part of a family. Marcus’s gift is creating an atmosphere where everyone feels seen, valued, and entirely at home.
It’s no surprise, then, that the venue is becoming known not only for its artistic endeavours but also for hosting an eclectic range of diverse, exciting events. On the 28th of November, it was a delight — not only for die-hard Doctor Who fans but for many others — to attend the London launch of David J. Howe’s new book Who Me. Despite the cold, wet evening, fans gathered enthusiastically, queueing in excellent spirits for the chance to have their books signed. A percentage of the proceeds was generously donated to the autism charity Anna Kennedy Online.
Me with the wonderful Samantha Lee Howe , the legend that is Pam Sharrock and the man of the hour David J Howe .Anna Kennedy OBE herself was present, radiating her trademark warmth and energy as she introduced both David and the evening’s interviewer. David’s wife — the ever-glamorous and always engaging Samantha Lee Howe — brought her own sparkle to the occasion. Guests enjoyed a glass of prosecco while mingling before taking their seats for Samantha’s conversation with David.
with ” Who Me ” writer David J Howe.An award-winning author and screenwriter, Samantha guided David through a fascinating reflection on his lifelong journey with Doctor Who: from childhood fan to acclaimed writer, historian, and one of the most recognisable voices in the Whovian world. The audience, which included fellow Doctor Who writer Robert Shearman, listened intently as David shared insights, anecdotes, and the unexpected twists that shaped both his career and his deep connection to the Doctor’s universe.
David J Howe with gallery owner Marcus Jake , celebrity photographer Annemarie Bickerton , Artist Piluca .
The evening also featured a lively charity raffle, with all funds raised going to Anna Kennedy Online. Dr Anna Kennedy, PR. Pamela Sharrock, QVC’s Beverley Cressman, and David himself picked the winning tickets. The raffle table was a treasure trove, thanks to generous donations from celebrity aesthetics expert and singer Sue Moxley; Aston Martin; celebrity make-up artist Ayesha Baig; Iryna Stewart, Director of Imagine You; and the team behind the innovative “Recovery Pillow.”
Samantha Lee Howe with the donated Recovery Pillow .https://therecoverypillow.comAs if that weren’t enough, guests were treated to a Doctor Who-themed cake — and thankfully, no one was exterminated in the process! The atmosphere was joyful, warm, and celebratory, marking another memorable night at the Firepit Gallery.
All photographs by Mick Herod. https://www.instagram.com/strangeworlds2016/
https://bedfordsquarepublishers.co.uk/book/who-me
https://annakennedyonline.com/autism-hero-awards/
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By Steven Smith.
Steven Smith was born in Coatbridge in Scotland. He was brought up in Whitley Bay, before briefly moving to London. He then moved to the seaside town of Brighton, where he was first receiver recognition for his hairdressing skills. Steven moved to America for eight years, working in Beverly Hills, and on his return to London in the late 90s, rose to fame working in fashionable Knightsbridge. He has styled model Katie Price, actress Denise Welch, David Hasselhoff and the cast of Baywatch. Steven had his own column in The Sun newspaper advising on hair and beauty, and was a regular on the Lorraine Kelly show, transforming GMTV viewers into their favourite stars. He made over Lorraine herself, transforming her into movie legend, Elizabeth Taylor.
Steven has been a freelance writer for the last ten years, combining showbiz interviews and travel with his eye for styling. He has written two books: Powder Boy, looking at the dark side of showbiz, and an autobiography: It shouldn’t happen to a hairdresser, offering a witty and sad look at his life. He is currently penning a third book to be titled Happy in Chennai.
He has a monthly column, Tales of a single middle-aged gay man that looks at not only the light side of gay life, but also darker aspects such as rape, addiction, and chem-sex. Steven also runs his own beauty/aesthetic blog and is a patron of Anna Kennedy online; a charity that not only supports the autism community but educates the public about those that live with autism.
Steven’s Out and About .
