ALEX WATSON Alex loved his family and his native Scotland, especially the sound and swirl of the bagpipes. A talented writer, he became the editor of the student magazine whilst at the same university where he met his wife. Later, when the children came along, his creative side was expressed in writing a series of stories for their bedtime reading. There followed a long and varied career at Barclay's Bank, which was unexpectedly cut short. He underwent and survived a heart transplant at Wythenshawe Hospital, after which, and extremely grateful, he characteristically became a volunteer, eventually taking on the role of Public Governor with responsibility for England (apart from the Greater Manchester Area). For the next fifteen years Alex tried to live life to the full. Amongst his various ventures, he joined several creative writing groups. BEYOND THE BRACKETS was one such group, and is proud to testify how much its members appreciated, benefitted from, and enjoyed his hallmark razor sharp wit. This Anthology contains an eclectic mix of work from five contemporary writers who have not held back from opening their hearts. The stories are contemplative, whimsical and adventurous. The flash fiction incisive, unpredictable and fantastical. The poetry reflective, heart-warming and intriguing. Mirror-like, the challenging issues will leave the reader taking stock of their own lives....