Began career as antiques dealer with a small shop in the Piccadilly Arcade in London

Started specializing in antique Wedgwood

Expanded business to include antique and modern ceramics and authored books about Wedgwood china

At same time wrote poetry, articles of literary and theater criticism and was co-editor of two literary magazines.

Published first novel, "Make Me An Offer"

First novel filmed, "Make Me an Offer"; also based on a musical play of his novel

Wrote first screenplay "A Kid For Two Farthings", based on his book

Penned screenplay adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's "The Millionairess"

Set up own theatrical production company

Began commuting with family between homes in England and Barbados

With director Val Guest, co-wrote original screenplay "The Day the Earth Caught Fire"; received British Film Academy Award for Best Screenplay

Scripted screen version of Jean Anouilh's "The Waltz of the Torreadors"

Provided the book for the stage musical "Pickwick"

Contributed to the script of "Casino Royale"

Purchased home in County Cork, Ireland

Sold antiques business

Last screenplay for a decade, "The Hireling"

Turned his biography "Dickens of London" into a TV miniseries (aired in the USA on PBS' "Masterpiece Theatre")

Declared bankrupcy after losing a fight with British Inland Revenue which claimed he owed thousands in back taxes

Was adjunct professor of English at the University of New Mexico

Final produced screenplay "Almonds and Raisins"

Became adjunct professor of theatre arts at the University of New Mexico

Disclosed he was suffering with cancer after publication of novel "A Night with Casanova"