True Crime Book Launch Explores Irish Legacy in London NOW

UPDATE: The highly anticipated launch of Andy Nolan’s true crime book Green Bloods unfolded at the London Irish Centre on October 20, 2023, drawing attention to the Irish community’s complex legacy in London’s criminal underworld. This event showcased not only the book but also the stories of those who lived in the shadows of crime.

As excitement filled the venue, Nolan was joined by notable figures including Bobby Cummines, Ryan O’Halloran, Noel ‘Razor’ Smith, and Ray Bishop. The evening featured live music from the band Two Canoes and others, creating a vibrant atmosphere as attendees celebrated the intertwining of culture and crime.

The book, which details the Irish community’s involvement in London’s criminal scene, was ten years in the making. Nolan expressed his gratitude, stating, “It was amazing just to have all my friends and family in the one room, especially the participants of the book.” He highlighted the emotional significance of the night, mentioning those who couldn’t attend due to illness, particularly the Emmett family.

Nolan’s journey to publish Green Bloods was fraught with challenges. He shared, “You get doubt in projects like this but here we are ten years later and it’s been worth it.” The book aims to shed light on the factors that led many Irish individuals into crime, including the societal prejudice of the past, famously encapsulated in the phrase “No Blacks, No Dogs, No Irish.”

During the launch, Cummines, a former criminal now awarded an OBE for his services to offenders, proclaimed, “It’s just been a fantastic night and I’m pleased because now the truth about the Irish is coming out.” He emphasized the resilience and humor of the Irish people, stating that they can find joy even in difficult circumstances.

“We’re not gangsters; we’re businessmen whose business was crime,” Cummines added, highlighting the shift in perception surrounding the Irish community.

The evening also included a candid discussion on historical attitudes towards the Irish, with Cummines addressing the often derogatory “Paddy jokes.” He asserted, “Irishmen are not lazy,” and called for pride in heritage, asserting, “This book is a must. It’s about the history of Irish people in England.”

Ryan O’Halloran, the son of notorious gangster ‘Longdog’ Danny O’Halloran, expressed pride in both his East End roots and his Irish lineage. He stated, “He gave a lot of us a platform to talk about this,” referring to Nolan’s work in highlighting their stories.

As the night progressed, Noel Razor Smith, once a prolific robber, shared his thoughts on the rebellious spirit of the Irish. “The Irish have always been rebellious… We did what we wanted to do,” he remarked, reflecting on the struggles faced by many Irish in the UK.

Ray Bishop, who transformed his life from crime to boxing success, noted the importance of Nolan’s narrative. “I knew Andy Nolan was the right man to do it justice,” he said, emphasizing the challenges faced by Irish families in the UK.

The event concluded with Nolan hinting at future projects, stating, “I will definitely follow this up.” He plans to explore the stories of Irish communities across other UK cities, including Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool, inspired by the demand from his audience.

Green Bloods is now available on Amazon, marking a significant contribution to the discourse on Irish identity and the complexities of crime. For those interested, this book promises to be a compelling exploration of a often-overlooked chapter in history.

As the night ended, the atmosphere was charged with hope and reflection, proving that despite the shadows of the past, the Irish community continues to thrive and share their stories with pride.