Scannell, Vernon

Vernon Scannell (1922-2007) was a poet and free-lance author. He had also been a professional boxer. In the Second World War he saw service in the Middle East and the D-day landings in the Gordon Highlanders Enraged by its futility he deserted though war remained a recurring subject of his poetry, and 'in recognition of his contribution to war poetry' he received a special award from the Wilfred Own Association. Further awards included the Heinemann Award for Literature in 1961 and the Cholmondeley Poetry Prize in 1974. In addition to his poetry, he wrote nine novels and four volumes of autobi...