• Former Board member pens autobiography

Former Board member pens autobiography

"No one could have done justice to such a fascinating journey than the man himself.”

Chan Kataria, emh group Chief Executive

reuben-reynolds

Reuben Reynolds, a former Board member of Three Oaks Homes (amalgamated into emh homes in 2013) in Blaby, Leicestershire, has published his autobiography, Born in a Barn, and what an entertaining read it is.

emh group Chief Executive Chan Kataria provides a foreword to the book, after encouraging Reuben to write his story after hearing him talk about his experiences with such animation and passion.

As well as following a full and interesting life, Born in a Barn gives a fascinating personal view of the social history of Leicestershire from the 1930s until the present day. Born in 1926, Reuben served his country overseas during World War II, an experience that was crucial in forming his character and enabling him to learn the skills that would serve him well in the post-war years.

Before his retirement in 1991, Reuben worked in a range of different sectors, from farming and the automobile industry to being a chimney sweep and a journalist. At the heart of everything he did was a strong willingness to stand up and fight for the disadvantaged and against injustice.

Reuben was a Blaby District Council tenant when he became involved in the campaign to transfer the housing stock, helping to establish the transfer promise document. Following the transfer and creation of Three Oaks Homes, he was appointed to the Board as a tenant representative. The promise led to 2,200 homes having their kitchens and bathrooms upgraded a year ahead of schedule.

Chan Kataria says: “When Reuben and I first discussed his autobiography, he jokingly asked me to be his ghost writer. I am pleased I did not take him up on his offer, as no one could have done justice to such a fascinating journey than the man himself.”