HE’S been a fire service volunteer, a Royal Air Force driver, bandleader, magician, television actor and had a dozen more jobs besides.

Now Weymouth’s Peter Price can add author to his list of talents after penning his autobiography.

The 84-year-old, who continues to entertain and work as a toastmaster, was persuaded by family and friends to write the book, The Magic Airman, which he published himself.

Aided by his friend, the local author Colin Pomeroy, Peter admits the memories came back to him as he began to write.

Unfortunately wife Jean, partner in a lifelong double act, died two years ago and is not around to see the book published.

“It took 12 months for it all to come together but it could have taken so much longer because I had computer problems and nearly lost everything,” said Peter, of Benville Road, who has three children, eight grandchildren and eight- great-grandchildren.

Born in Weymouth, Peter always had an interest in music but it was not until he left the RAF after the Second World War that he took up trumpet playing, eventually becoming a bandleader.

He also became known around the town through his hairdressing businesses.

Later he reinvented himself as a magician with wife Jean by his side in their act. They toured all over the world throughout the 1970s.

In the 1980s they turned to television work and as members of British Equity took parts in a number of films and television programmes including Only Fools And Horses and Miss Marple.

When that became a chore, Peter turned his hand to performing as a toastmaster and master of ceremonies at banquets and other events.

Peter was given a medal for helping to liberate Holland during the Second World War and will travel to France next month to take part in a D-Day anniversary event where he expects to be awarded a medal by the French government for the part he played in the landings.

Peter said: “I’ll be singing at a concert at the Excise House on May 29. I continue to do close-up magic for parties and will be toastmaster at a wedding in August.

“I’m still going strong and although I’m not rushed off my feet anymore, it’s nice to keep doing it.

“When I was at school I remember thinking reaching 60 would be incredible. I consider myself to be a lucky man. I’m fit and healthy and have been blessed with a wonderful life.”

The book, priced £8, can be obtained from Peter Price by telephoning him on 01305 778508.