They say it’s never too late to either write a book, or be the subject of one…
To that end, two irascible residents of Rubidge Retirement Residence have joined forces on a book project heralding the life and times of one of Peterborough’s heritage broadcasters.
Author Bob Cottrell is 94, whereas the subject (the ‘young whip’ in this duo) is a mere 85. But you would have to forgive these two teenagers at heart for their youthful enthusiasm while swapping stories, the bulk of which provide the fodder for a new book to be released later this month.
‘Sunshine Sean’ – The Life and Times of Sean Eyre is not the first book on Mr. Eyre’s life. A previous epistle, ‘Here’s to More Sunshine in Your Life – A Candid Look at the Early Years of Radio and TV Broadcasting in the Kawarthas 1950s to 1970s’ was released in 2011, and was authored by the subject himself to make certain there would actually be a previous book on his life in the first place…
This most recent update originated not from Eyre, but Cottrell – who brought the idea to Sean last year. Since that time the two have been swapping stories to augment Cottrell’s own research on his subject. There is no shortage of fodder, as tenured residents of Peterborough and the Kawartha region will recognize Eyre for his work over the years on CHEX Television and Radio, the former 910 CKLY in Lindsay, Country 105 in Peterborough and most recently Trent Radio and the Kawartha Time Machine, which features Eyre’s archived shows on Sunday mornings.
Eyre originally came to Peterborough from Timmins to take the weather forecasting reins on CHEX Channel 12 from Dave Devall, who was leaving Peterborough for the bright lights of Toronto, and CFTO. Eyre eventually moved into radio, taking over from Al Porteus on the rural show which ran early afternoons on 980 CHEX. Eyre soon expanded the country music library and – hooking up with newsman George Franks – commenced an epic journey with help from the curmudgeon Elwood Cranston, who would call in from Cordova Mines. Along the way the duo would fill arenas and become the toast of local fairs and events.
Eyre would go on to assume the role as Official Town Crier, was elected to a term of City Council, and co-founded the Peterborough and District Pathway of Fame.
The new book promises a reveal of heretofore untold stories of the Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes broadcast legend. The cover was conceptualized and rendered by Candace Drover of Silverstreak Creative Design.
An official book launch and signing event, hosted by Rubidge General Manager Ella Hewitt, will be held Monday March 10th from 1-4pm to which the general public is cordially invited. Light refreshments will be served. Both author, and subject will be on hand for the event, and look forward to seeing their many friends.
WHAT: The Sunshine Sean Book Launch
WHEN: Monday, March 10th 2025 from 1-4 pm
WHERE: Rubidge Retirement Residence, located at 270 Rubidge Street, Peterborough, ON
CONTACT
Bob Cottrell – bobjudy410@yahoo.com
Sean Eyre – seangordon1939@yahoo.com
Phone 249 504 0664