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No Ordinary Day: Espionage, betrayal, terrorism and corruption - the truth behind the murder of WPC Yvonne Fletcher
As 25-year old WPC Yvonne Fletcher lay mortally wounded, having been shot from within the Libyan People’ s Bureau in London on 17 April 1984, her friend and fellow police officer John Murray promised he would see those responsible brought to justice. That promise would take him 37 years to fulfil, during which time he uncovered a startling web of intrigue involving big business, politicians and our intelligence agencies. This is his story. Two weeks after WPC Fletcher’ s tragic death, all those present inside the Bureau, including everyone suspected of involvement in the attack, were deported from the UK. Men guilty of terrorism and murder were neither arrested nor prosecuted. In writing John Murray’ s story, Matt Johnson has identified UK government duplicity and secret service deals and discovered why, in 1984, Yvonne Fletcher's killers were allowed to go free. His extensive research also reveals how events on 17 April resulted in a 30-year government campaign to bring the police services of the UK under political control, a campaign that has driven our police service into the state of disarray we see today.
400 pages, Paperback
Published October 10, 2023
29 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Matt Johnson
6 books380 followersMatt Johnson
Matt Johnson served as a soldier from 1975-78 and Metropolitan Police officer from 1978 -1999.
His debut novel Wicked Game – a crime thriller - was published by Orenda Books in March 2016. The sequel Deadly Game, was published March 2017.
Wicked Game was listed for the Crime Writers Association John Creasey Dagger award, has topped the Amazon and WH Smith KOBO charts in several categories and at the end of 2016 was listed by Amazon UK as the highest-rated ‘rising star’ novel of 2016.
Peter James, the international best-selling novelist said of Matt’s first book "Terse, tense and vivid writing. Matt Johnson is a brilliant new name in the world of thrillers."
Matt's first non-fiction was the multi award-winning No Ordinary Day which reveals the startling truth behind the 1984 murder of WPC Yvonne Fletcher.
Winner of the Book of the Year and Reader's Choice awards at the 2024 CrimeCon True Crime Awards.
Highly-Commended at the 2024 CrimeCon True Crime awards for Outstanding Investigative Reporting.
Winner of the 2024 Capital Crime Fingerprint Award (True Crime)
Shortlisted for the 2024 Crime Writers Association ALCS Gold Dagger for non-fiction.
Background
In 1999, Matt was discharged from the police with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Whilst undergoing treatment, he was encouraged by his counsellor to write about his career and his experience of murders, shootings and terrorism.
Matt was eventually persuaded to give this a go, and one evening, he sat at his computer and started to weave his notes into a work of fiction that he described as having a tremendously cathartic effect on his own condition. He used his detailed knowledge and recollections to create what has been described by many readers as a fast paced, exciting and authentic tale of modern-day policing and terrorism.
It could be argued that Matt Johnson is living proof PTSD is a condition that can be controlled and overcome with the right help and support. He has been described by many fans as an inspiration to fellow sufferers.
Matt Johnson served as a soldier from 1975-78 and Metropolitan Police officer from 1978 -1999.
His debut novel Wicked Game – a crime thriller - was published by Orenda Books in March 2016. The sequel Deadly Game, was published March 2017.
Wicked Game was listed for the Crime Writers Association John Creasey Dagger award, has topped the Amazon and WH Smith KOBO charts in several categories and at the end of 2016 was listed by Amazon UK as the highest-rated ‘rising star’ novel of 2016.
Peter James, the international best-selling novelist said of Matt’s first book "Terse, tense and vivid writing. Matt Johnson is a brilliant new name in the world of thrillers."
Matt's first non-fiction was the multi award-winning No Ordinary Day which reveals the startling truth behind the 1984 murder of WPC Yvonne Fletcher.
Winner of the Book of the Year and Reader's Choice awards at the 2024 CrimeCon True Crime Awards.
Highly-Commended at the 2024 CrimeCon True Crime awards for Outstanding Investigative Reporting.
Winner of the 2024 Capital Crime Fingerprint Award (True Crime)
Shortlisted for the 2024 Crime Writers Association ALCS Gold Dagger for non-fiction.
Background
In 1999, Matt was discharged from the police with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Whilst undergoing treatment, he was encouraged by his counsellor to write about his career and his experience of murders, shootings and terrorism.
Matt was eventually persuaded to give this a go, and one evening, he sat at his computer and started to weave his notes into a work of fiction that he described as having a tremendously cathartic effect on his own condition. He used his detailed knowledge and recollections to create what has been described by many readers as a fast paced, exciting and authentic tale of modern-day policing and terrorism.
It could be argued that Matt Johnson is living proof PTSD is a condition that can be controlled and overcome with the right help and support. He has been described by many fans as an inspiration to fellow sufferers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 8, 2023
No Ordinary Day tells the tragic yet fascinating story of the death of PC Yvonne Fletcher at the hands of a lone Libyan terrorist gunman on 17 April 1984 and dissects the myriad people involved in bringing about the incident who for a long time were both faceless and nameless. It shows just how nefarious politicians, the elite and those that hold some sort of power can be and how self-interest and agendas are more important to many than the lives of others. The first chapter introduces "Fletch", as she was affectionately known by her colleagues, her route into the police force, what type of person she was and what those who worked with her thought about her.
The second chapter is when the incident is recalled and the book begins to read like a thriller except sadly this is real life with real consequences for everyone present that day. From then on, the action and investigation never let up, with it taking you through the unspeakable tragedy leading up to that day, the incident and its aftermath as those involved or impacted by the shooting attempt to not only come to terms with what happened to them but also seek answers. It is one of those books for readers who like to learn the truth behind the headlines; to discover the deeply rooted corruption and malevolent agendas lurking just under the surface of the "official" news and press/police/political statements both at the time and since.
The research included is impeccably undertaken informing every single page and the rich true-to-life description is another aspect that makes this highly readable. You will have to remind yourself repeatedly that the dark undertones throughout the story are based on complete fact. It very much embodies the adage "truth is stranger than fiction". Thrilling, compulsive and engrossing from beginning to end, I would recommend this to those who enjoy stories with plenty of thrills, mystery, suspense, espionage and political intrigue as well as those who read nonfiction and/or true crime.
The second chapter is when the incident is recalled and the book begins to read like a thriller except sadly this is real life with real consequences for everyone present that day. From then on, the action and investigation never let up, with it taking you through the unspeakable tragedy leading up to that day, the incident and its aftermath as those involved or impacted by the shooting attempt to not only come to terms with what happened to them but also seek answers. It is one of those books for readers who like to learn the truth behind the headlines; to discover the deeply rooted corruption and malevolent agendas lurking just under the surface of the "official" news and press/police/political statements both at the time and since.
The research included is impeccably undertaken informing every single page and the rich true-to-life description is another aspect that makes this highly readable. You will have to remind yourself repeatedly that the dark undertones throughout the story are based on complete fact. It very much embodies the adage "truth is stranger than fiction". Thrilling, compulsive and engrossing from beginning to end, I would recommend this to those who enjoy stories with plenty of thrills, mystery, suspense, espionage and political intrigue as well as those who read nonfiction and/or true crime.
April 19, 2024
found this book really interesting with the politics , terrorism and all the background stuff makes this a interesting and detailed read about the killing of PC Yvonne Fletcher
July 2, 2023
I was very young when WPC Yvonne Fletcher was murdered outside of the Libyan Embassy in London. Too young to understand the implications of what I was seeing on the news, but no so young that I don’t remember it and the stories which filled the news in the following months and years. What I didn’t, and couldn’t, understand at that age was just how what happened on that fateful day would come to inform some of the most notorious socio-political, and terrorist, activities of the time. With No Ordinary Day, Matt Johnson provides not just a detailed retelling of all that happened in those few highly charged days of the Libyan Embassy siege, or of John Murray’s quest to fulfil his promise to his colleague to get justice for her, but of the far reaching consequences of decisions taken by politicians in the name of ‘national security’.
It is a book which is equal parts enlightening, enraging and emotional – book that triggered so many different reactions in me that at times it was a very difficult book to read. I say this as a ‘civvy’, someone with no links to the police other than having met the author at various events to celebrate his fiction titles. I can only begin to imagine how this story, this fight, has impacted upon the many people who knew and loved Yvonne Fletcher. Matt Johnson has the tone of this book pitched perfectly. It triggers those reactions whilst completely engaging me as a reader. From the opening chapter, which reads like the introduction to a thriller of some kind of spy fiction, he walks us through the events which fell immediately before, during and after the shooting, recounting witness testimonies in amongst historical fact which set the scene as to the reason for the unrest between pro and anti Gaddafi factions which resulted in the protest outside of the Libyan Embassy. Within a. few chapters I could feel the raw emotion emanating from the page and knew that this was going to be a book which left a mark, no matter who it was that was reading.
There is so much going on in this book, so many political decisions and events which prior to having read the book I would have had no reason to link. So many parts of our not so recent history that link back to the Gaddafi regime that many may have been aware of but, as someone who was still in primary school, the significance of which had most definitely passed me by. I am certainly aware now. How the then Government used the political relationship with Libya as a tool to end the Miners strike, rather than challenge the diplomatic immunity of those believed to be responsible for Yvonne’s death. The British citizens taken hostage in Libya which pushed any chance of meaningful prosecution further from being a possibility. Perhaps understandably so, but no less difficult a decision to accept in the circumstances. All of this is explored in detail, along with more about the background and prominence of the chief suspects in this case.
Beyond the political trickery and subterfuge, there is the intensely human side to this story. That of John Murray and his constant quest for justice. We see the impact that Yvonne’s death had on John’s health and, longer term, on his marriage. We follow him as he makes many an undercover trip to Libya, to talk to key witnesses and, in some cases, suspects in Yvonne’s murder, to try and find the truth of what happened and who was responsible. This culminates in his private claim for damages against the sole remaining suspect in the decision to shoot on the assembling demonstrators outside of the Embassy, resulting in Yvonne’s death, Saleh Ibrahim Mabrouk. If you can read through this part of the book, read of the reaction and support that John Murray receives from colleagues within the Police Force, both past and present, and facts around the civil trial against Mabrouk, then you have a far harder heart than mind.
In fact there are several scenes in the book that brought a tear to my eye, that actually created a visceral reaction and a welling of emotion so much so that I found myself choking up a little trying to describe one such scene to someone. Matt Johnson has done a superb job in portraying that sentiment in a simple, tender, and yet emotive way so that whether you are directly involved or not, it is virtually impossible not to be moved by what you are reading. The most important point of all is that, through his words and the memories of Yvonne’s closest friends and colleagues, the author really gives us an insight into what a special person was lost that day. I feel I know her now, realise why her loss is still so keenly felt. She will no longer be just a name in a headline to me. She is, as she should be remembered, now ‘Super-Fletch’. Small in stature but large in heart, who made a profound difference to those who knew her.
This is an important book, a book I would urge you to read. It takes us behind the headlines to the truth of the political decisions that have shaped the past thirty nine years of John Murray’s quest for justice. With the narrative taking us between the UK and Libya, and with a frank and detailed exploration of this case, Matt Johnson has captured the heart of this case, a quest for justice which is not yet over. This is a book which is steeped in fact and conveys the many questionable decisions made without judgment, as such, but that will create strong feeling nonetheless. Be warned – it is likely to make you even angrier at the many political figures who still plague our lives to this day (if that is even possible), as well as act as a reminder that, in spite of the negative headlines that dominate about the Met Police these days, there are many dedicated, and passionate Officers, such as John Murray and Yvonne Fletcher, who should be celebrated and remembered above all else.
Highly recommended. Hard hitting, packed with raw emotion and a story that deserves to live long in the memory. If you only read one non-fiction book this year, make sure it is this one.
It is a book which is equal parts enlightening, enraging and emotional – book that triggered so many different reactions in me that at times it was a very difficult book to read. I say this as a ‘civvy’, someone with no links to the police other than having met the author at various events to celebrate his fiction titles. I can only begin to imagine how this story, this fight, has impacted upon the many people who knew and loved Yvonne Fletcher. Matt Johnson has the tone of this book pitched perfectly. It triggers those reactions whilst completely engaging me as a reader. From the opening chapter, which reads like the introduction to a thriller of some kind of spy fiction, he walks us through the events which fell immediately before, during and after the shooting, recounting witness testimonies in amongst historical fact which set the scene as to the reason for the unrest between pro and anti Gaddafi factions which resulted in the protest outside of the Libyan Embassy. Within a. few chapters I could feel the raw emotion emanating from the page and knew that this was going to be a book which left a mark, no matter who it was that was reading.
There is so much going on in this book, so many political decisions and events which prior to having read the book I would have had no reason to link. So many parts of our not so recent history that link back to the Gaddafi regime that many may have been aware of but, as someone who was still in primary school, the significance of which had most definitely passed me by. I am certainly aware now. How the then Government used the political relationship with Libya as a tool to end the Miners strike, rather than challenge the diplomatic immunity of those believed to be responsible for Yvonne’s death. The British citizens taken hostage in Libya which pushed any chance of meaningful prosecution further from being a possibility. Perhaps understandably so, but no less difficult a decision to accept in the circumstances. All of this is explored in detail, along with more about the background and prominence of the chief suspects in this case.
Beyond the political trickery and subterfuge, there is the intensely human side to this story. That of John Murray and his constant quest for justice. We see the impact that Yvonne’s death had on John’s health and, longer term, on his marriage. We follow him as he makes many an undercover trip to Libya, to talk to key witnesses and, in some cases, suspects in Yvonne’s murder, to try and find the truth of what happened and who was responsible. This culminates in his private claim for damages against the sole remaining suspect in the decision to shoot on the assembling demonstrators outside of the Embassy, resulting in Yvonne’s death, Saleh Ibrahim Mabrouk. If you can read through this part of the book, read of the reaction and support that John Murray receives from colleagues within the Police Force, both past and present, and facts around the civil trial against Mabrouk, then you have a far harder heart than mind.
In fact there are several scenes in the book that brought a tear to my eye, that actually created a visceral reaction and a welling of emotion so much so that I found myself choking up a little trying to describe one such scene to someone. Matt Johnson has done a superb job in portraying that sentiment in a simple, tender, and yet emotive way so that whether you are directly involved or not, it is virtually impossible not to be moved by what you are reading. The most important point of all is that, through his words and the memories of Yvonne’s closest friends and colleagues, the author really gives us an insight into what a special person was lost that day. I feel I know her now, realise why her loss is still so keenly felt. She will no longer be just a name in a headline to me. She is, as she should be remembered, now ‘Super-Fletch’. Small in stature but large in heart, who made a profound difference to those who knew her.
This is an important book, a book I would urge you to read. It takes us behind the headlines to the truth of the political decisions that have shaped the past thirty nine years of John Murray’s quest for justice. With the narrative taking us between the UK and Libya, and with a frank and detailed exploration of this case, Matt Johnson has captured the heart of this case, a quest for justice which is not yet over. This is a book which is steeped in fact and conveys the many questionable decisions made without judgment, as such, but that will create strong feeling nonetheless. Be warned – it is likely to make you even angrier at the many political figures who still plague our lives to this day (if that is even possible), as well as act as a reminder that, in spite of the negative headlines that dominate about the Met Police these days, there are many dedicated, and passionate Officers, such as John Murray and Yvonne Fletcher, who should be celebrated and remembered above all else.
Highly recommended. Hard hitting, packed with raw emotion and a story that deserves to live long in the memory. If you only read one non-fiction book this year, make sure it is this one.
June 21, 2023
I spent 30 years as a police officer in the Met. I remember exactly where I was when I first heard that a WPC had been shot at a demonstration in central London. The shock that in 1984 someone would openly shoot at unarmed police and demonstrators, in London, was unheard of.
Now having read this expertly researched chronology of the event, people and government cover up, using the miners strike to deflect attention would make an excellent plot for a fictional book. However this is frightening true.
John Murray, cradling Yvonne in his arms, refusing to leave her alone whilst in an active shooter zone just shows from the outset his true courage and bravery. John made Yvonne a promise that today 39 years later he still works on tirelessly, that he would find and bring to justice those responsible.
The research and travel that John made in his quest to find those responsible took him on some hair raising journeys deep into Lybia to places where even hardened soldiers would fear to go on a deployment.
I have never heard of or come across this type of commitment before. The vast majority of what he has done, only a few knew about until recently. I cannot recall from the book if it explained how he, John, funded the vast majority of this, never complaining, but just believing that it was his duty to honour his promise to Yvonne.
What an amazing man, former police officer himself suffer unknowingly for years from PTSD but making these highly dangerous trips to gather evidence in what was considered a war zone.
Eventually, the suppressed government documents will be released when the time limit expires, that between any redactions will tell the whole truth about the government’s role, the surveillance measures deployed and transcripts of logs for physical surveillance and electronic communications monitoring measures deployed. The fact that police were not informed that it was very highly suspected that firearms would be discharged during the demonstration at the demonstrators.
Having won his civil case against Mabrouk, John is still working to bring a criminal case.
There is one quote within the book that I along with many other police officers find abhorrent. “I don’t know what he’s so concerned about, she was only a WPC” (page 229)
As far as I am concerned the person making that comment, a MP, after the 2013 debate in parliament organised by Daniel Kawczynski needs to make a public apology for that comment. If that is his view on police officers then the question needs to be asked whether he is fit to stand as an MP
The awarding of a medal posthumously to the families of all police officers killed whilst on duty like the Elizabeth Cross for military, has still not been resolved. John should also be considered for an award for his work, 39 year’s commitment. He most definitely deserves one, although he doesn’t believe he has done anything extraordinary. You are a hero John. It is astounding what you have done and achieved. You are that grit in the oyster, as John Grieve remarks.
Now having read this expertly researched chronology of the event, people and government cover up, using the miners strike to deflect attention would make an excellent plot for a fictional book. However this is frightening true.
John Murray, cradling Yvonne in his arms, refusing to leave her alone whilst in an active shooter zone just shows from the outset his true courage and bravery. John made Yvonne a promise that today 39 years later he still works on tirelessly, that he would find and bring to justice those responsible.
The research and travel that John made in his quest to find those responsible took him on some hair raising journeys deep into Lybia to places where even hardened soldiers would fear to go on a deployment.
I have never heard of or come across this type of commitment before. The vast majority of what he has done, only a few knew about until recently. I cannot recall from the book if it explained how he, John, funded the vast majority of this, never complaining, but just believing that it was his duty to honour his promise to Yvonne.
What an amazing man, former police officer himself suffer unknowingly for years from PTSD but making these highly dangerous trips to gather evidence in what was considered a war zone.
Eventually, the suppressed government documents will be released when the time limit expires, that between any redactions will tell the whole truth about the government’s role, the surveillance measures deployed and transcripts of logs for physical surveillance and electronic communications monitoring measures deployed. The fact that police were not informed that it was very highly suspected that firearms would be discharged during the demonstration at the demonstrators.
Having won his civil case against Mabrouk, John is still working to bring a criminal case.
There is one quote within the book that I along with many other police officers find abhorrent. “I don’t know what he’s so concerned about, she was only a WPC” (page 229)
As far as I am concerned the person making that comment, a MP, after the 2013 debate in parliament organised by Daniel Kawczynski needs to make a public apology for that comment. If that is his view on police officers then the question needs to be asked whether he is fit to stand as an MP
The awarding of a medal posthumously to the families of all police officers killed whilst on duty like the Elizabeth Cross for military, has still not been resolved. John should also be considered for an award for his work, 39 year’s commitment. He most definitely deserves one, although he doesn’t believe he has done anything extraordinary. You are a hero John. It is astounding what you have done and achieved. You are that grit in the oyster, as John Grieve remarks.
June 18, 2023
I spent 30 years as a police officer and although I never served with or met Yvonne Fletcher I did serve at the same police station and I lost a great friend and colleague who was murdered on duty (his killers were convicted) and I knew some of those mentioned in this book. Some passages reduced me to tears, others elicited extreme anger. An aside from a Tory politician that "she was only a WPC" sums up the attitude of those we elect purportedly to represent and serve us. Senior politicians of both major parties come out of this tale very badly- they consistently lied about events, hiding behind spurious claims of "national security" when in fact all they were interested in was Libyan oil. Ultimately Yvonne Fletcher was killed and denied justice to enable Margaret Thatcher to defeat the NUM and later politicians were complicit in hiding this. I AM VERY ANGRY!!!
July 15, 2023
Wow, this book kept me gripped. It had so many true facts of political corruption, espionage and human costs.It is an education into the History of Libya and the Gaddafi regime and political decisions made to protect those responsible for the murder of an innocent police woman.
It’s a complicated account of events yet it is written brilliantly.
If this is the only book you read this year, I recommend this one.
It’s a complicated account of events yet it is written brilliantly.
If this is the only book you read this year, I recommend this one.
August 31, 2023
I was a child when PC Fletcher was murdered and only in recent years learned about John Murray’s commitment to her. One could only hope to have such a friend! This book is gripping, well paced and tragic, it reads like a thriller, sadly it’s all true. A must read.
August 20, 2023
I could write reams in support of this book. Suffice to say the emotions it has elicited in me cover the spectrum- frustration; sympathy; anger; pride; satisfaction; contempt; but above all utter respect for a man who kept his promise to a dying officer and friend, and who refused to give up. Well done John. You did her proud.
June 26, 2023
This is the story about WPC Yvonne Fletcher, who would have turned 65yrs of age this month. She was gunned down at the tender age of 25yrs by two gunmen when they opened fire with Sterling submachine guns from the first floor of the Libyan People’s Bureau in St. James’ Square, London. This is also the story of the unstinting courage of Yvonne’s friend John Murray who, as a PC standing next to Yvonne outside the Bureau on April 17th 1984 made her a promise as she lay dying, cradled in his arms, that he would not stop until he had brought her killers to justice. He has done half the job thus far by (amazingly) securing a High Court ruling that Saleh Ibrahim Mabrouk, a former minister in Muammar Gaddafi’s government, orchestrated the shooting of Yvonne, and was jointly liable for her death, and for John Murray’s injuries and the injuries of the protesters also hit by automatic gunfire that day.
I watched the TV coverage as Yvonne died that day. I watched John desperately try to help her. I later looked every one of Yvonne’s murderers in the eye as they filed past me out of the Bureau & onto luxury coaches to be taken to an airport where they boarded a plane & took off to return to Libya. I then watched the TV coverage as they arrived in Tripoli to rapturous and no doubt orchestrated applause from tens of thousands of Libyans, then into a huge cavalcade & driven to a heroes welcome from Gaddafi et al.
This was, and still is an intensely personal event in my police career & that of every police officer who was serving that day. Matt Johnson has done a fantastic job in writing this book. He has found, collated & put to print the whole story of this awful event. He has described perfectly John Murray’s dogged persistence, which shows through on almost every page. He also describes the disgusting meddling of the government & security services.
Read the book. Please. Tell your friends. Tell your acquaintances. Hell, tell your enemies. Tell as many people as you can. Get them to read the book. Get them to pester their MP. Tell them to make a fuss. Do so yourselves.
I watched the TV coverage as Yvonne died that day. I watched John desperately try to help her. I later looked every one of Yvonne’s murderers in the eye as they filed past me out of the Bureau & onto luxury coaches to be taken to an airport where they boarded a plane & took off to return to Libya. I then watched the TV coverage as they arrived in Tripoli to rapturous and no doubt orchestrated applause from tens of thousands of Libyans, then into a huge cavalcade & driven to a heroes welcome from Gaddafi et al.
This was, and still is an intensely personal event in my police career & that of every police officer who was serving that day. Matt Johnson has done a fantastic job in writing this book. He has found, collated & put to print the whole story of this awful event. He has described perfectly John Murray’s dogged persistence, which shows through on almost every page. He also describes the disgusting meddling of the government & security services.
Read the book. Please. Tell your friends. Tell your acquaintances. Hell, tell your enemies. Tell as many people as you can. Get them to read the book. Get them to pester their MP. Tell them to make a fuss. Do so yourselves.
August 7, 2023
An excellent read highlighting the corruption of the so called leaders of our country. They should ashamed.
June 19, 2023
This book is Extremely professionally written, and the book draws you in from the very beginning. This book is set in London on St James square and on 17th April 1984 there was an anti-Gaddafi demonstration due to take place. WPC Yvonne Fletcher and her colleague John Murray where on duty that day and they were asked at the last moment to go on duty to the demonstration. They both thought it would be like any other demonstration maybe a few arrests for disorderly behaviour and back to the police station to another job.
Sadly, it would be nothing like that as gunfire erupted out of the Libyan Peoples Bureau and WPC Yvonne Fletcher was hit in the back and fell to the ground. Her colleague and close friend PC John Murray cradled her in his arms as she lay dying, but John swore to Yvonne, he would get the perpetrator and bring them to justice.
John continued to fight to see justice done. For 37 years John has campaigned and fought resolutely to bring Yvonnes killer to justice. Afterwards the perpetrator's and everyone in the peoples Bureau were removed and returned to Libia.
But John Murray refused to give up and his dogged determination into bringing Yvonne Fletchers killers to justice would take its toll on him but John is determined to leave no stone unturned as he fights the government, Mi5 Mi6 secret service and Trips to Libia risking his own life all to get to the truth and reveal what really happened that day and bring the murderers finally to justice.
This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride across continents from the beginning until the end, but justice finally prevails. I am so pleased that I have read this book as it is a truly and inspirational read. Thankyou John and Matt for telling this remarkable story. My utmost respect and admiration to you both. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sadly, it would be nothing like that as gunfire erupted out of the Libyan Peoples Bureau and WPC Yvonne Fletcher was hit in the back and fell to the ground. Her colleague and close friend PC John Murray cradled her in his arms as she lay dying, but John swore to Yvonne, he would get the perpetrator and bring them to justice.
John continued to fight to see justice done. For 37 years John has campaigned and fought resolutely to bring Yvonnes killer to justice. Afterwards the perpetrator's and everyone in the peoples Bureau were removed and returned to Libia.
But John Murray refused to give up and his dogged determination into bringing Yvonne Fletchers killers to justice would take its toll on him but John is determined to leave no stone unturned as he fights the government, Mi5 Mi6 secret service and Trips to Libia risking his own life all to get to the truth and reveal what really happened that day and bring the murderers finally to justice.
This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride across continents from the beginning until the end, but justice finally prevails. I am so pleased that I have read this book as it is a truly and inspirational read. Thankyou John and Matt for telling this remarkable story. My utmost respect and admiration to you both. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 3, 2023
This is no ordinary book.
Yes, it records the determination of one man to keep his promise made to his dying young female colleague murdered in the line of duty, but it's so much more than that.
This book records and reveals important 'hidden' British social history of the last 40 years, back to Margaret Thatcher's determination to destroy the National Union of Miners at all costs. It exposes the depths to which politicians have since sold us, the public, down the river, using the 'not in the public interests' excuse to treat us like mushrooms (kept in the dark and fed on s**t) so as to hide their underhand dealings to get what they want and protect their own interests, regardless of whether that's actually in the public's best interest or not.
It also provides insight into how and why our Police forces, in particular the Met, have been harmed by direct and indirect political interference since this shooting that has eroded their independence, decimated their numbers, diluted their strengths and hamstrung the delivery of proper justice in too many cases. It highlights how that has also led to 'bad apples' being allowed to wear and then hide behind that uniform to do harm, meaning we the public have both lost trust in them and been poorly served in many instances.
Whilst No Ordinary Day remains a heartbreaking true story with the twisting and turning plot of an international political thriller. it opens your eyes to the fact that, if those 'interfering suits' were doing all that then, they are surely still doing it today.
Rather than repeat the many other 5 star reviews, I will just say I wholeheartedly agree (Jen's review beautifully sums up my own feelings: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...).
This is a book that deserves to be widely read and added to the reading lists of all political studies and social history academic courses. Highly recommended reading.
Yes, it records the determination of one man to keep his promise made to his dying young female colleague murdered in the line of duty, but it's so much more than that.
This book records and reveals important 'hidden' British social history of the last 40 years, back to Margaret Thatcher's determination to destroy the National Union of Miners at all costs. It exposes the depths to which politicians have since sold us, the public, down the river, using the 'not in the public interests' excuse to treat us like mushrooms (kept in the dark and fed on s**t) so as to hide their underhand dealings to get what they want and protect their own interests, regardless of whether that's actually in the public's best interest or not.
It also provides insight into how and why our Police forces, in particular the Met, have been harmed by direct and indirect political interference since this shooting that has eroded their independence, decimated their numbers, diluted their strengths and hamstrung the delivery of proper justice in too many cases. It highlights how that has also led to 'bad apples' being allowed to wear and then hide behind that uniform to do harm, meaning we the public have both lost trust in them and been poorly served in many instances.
Whilst No Ordinary Day remains a heartbreaking true story with the twisting and turning plot of an international political thriller. it opens your eyes to the fact that, if those 'interfering suits' were doing all that then, they are surely still doing it today.
Rather than repeat the many other 5 star reviews, I will just say I wholeheartedly agree (Jen's review beautifully sums up my own feelings: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...).
This is a book that deserves to be widely read and added to the reading lists of all political studies and social history academic courses. Highly recommended reading.
July 28, 2023
Cops betrayed by self serving politicians
As a retired cop, I thought I was familiar with the story of how an unarmed officer was killed at a protest outside the Libyan embassy.
I did not, however, realise just how obstructive successive U.K. governments had been in bringing culprits to justice.
This book made me angry. It should make you angry too.
Absolutely compelling.
As a retired cop, I thought I was familiar with the story of how an unarmed officer was killed at a protest outside the Libyan embassy.
I did not, however, realise just how obstructive successive U.K. governments had been in bringing culprits to justice.
This book made me angry. It should make you angry too.
Absolutely compelling.
July 4, 2023
It was utterly engrossing on so many levels.
I knew Yvonne Fletcher by sight as I was based at Vine Street Police Stn from 1979 to 1984 and was on duty that day, working in the Court Presentation office. I vividly remember that dreadful day and the shock of the news.
I’d been hearing about the progress of the investigation and until I read the book, I was clueless about so many details.
The book from the outset recreated the police force I was part of, the general description of the duties sgt and his position within the hierarchy of the station community immediately brought memories flooding back.
Matt Johnson has written about a deeply sad subject that became so complicated and he has kept the pace and the detail involved succinct and flowing at the same time.
Reading this book has had a profound effect on me, how I feel about my former career and the memories that I’ve buried from that time. However hearing about the dedication of John Murray and the personal cost this enquiry has been to him, truly humbled me. It explains so much and answers so many questions I have had.
I knew Yvonne Fletcher by sight as I was based at Vine Street Police Stn from 1979 to 1984 and was on duty that day, working in the Court Presentation office. I vividly remember that dreadful day and the shock of the news.
I’d been hearing about the progress of the investigation and until I read the book, I was clueless about so many details.
The book from the outset recreated the police force I was part of, the general description of the duties sgt and his position within the hierarchy of the station community immediately brought memories flooding back.
Matt Johnson has written about a deeply sad subject that became so complicated and he has kept the pace and the detail involved succinct and flowing at the same time.
Reading this book has had a profound effect on me, how I feel about my former career and the memories that I’ve buried from that time. However hearing about the dedication of John Murray and the personal cost this enquiry has been to him, truly humbled me. It explains so much and answers so many questions I have had.
July 10, 2023
An engrossing and riveting book which deserves a far wider audience than it will probably get. I have been following this story since the very beginning and thought I knew a lot about it - how wrong I was! The book does an excellent job of bringing together everything that has happened in almost 40 years and is a showcase for the determination and persistence of John Murray. The latter deserves some kind of national award or recognition whilst Matt Johnson should be applauded for his work.
The reader will be astounded by some of the things that were going on in government and in the security services , only some of which have been revealed by John’s investigations.
If you haven’t a tear in your eye by the end of the book then you have no heart.
The reader will be astounded by some of the things that were going on in government and in the security services , only some of which have been revealed by John’s investigations.
If you haven’t a tear in your eye by the end of the book then you have no heart.
June 28, 2023
…and we were expendable.
Outstanding read from a coppers copper. The police were once nicknamed‘Maggies Men’ but their star has plummeted to such a point that the police service now is a pale shadow of its former self. It takes one to know it you may wonder…? John Murray is a Bobby to the end, and like most of us who took the oath to protect and serve we try not to let the bastards grind us down. We recognise very much now that most politicians are those bastards in sheep’s clothing. This book definitely illustrates that. This is a book that every police officer both serving and retired needs to read. Rest in peace Yvonne Fletcher. Recommended 5 stars.
Outstanding read from a coppers copper. The police were once nicknamed‘Maggies Men’ but their star has plummeted to such a point that the police service now is a pale shadow of its former self. It takes one to know it you may wonder…? John Murray is a Bobby to the end, and like most of us who took the oath to protect and serve we try not to let the bastards grind us down. We recognise very much now that most politicians are those bastards in sheep’s clothing. This book definitely illustrates that. This is a book that every police officer both serving and retired needs to read. Rest in peace Yvonne Fletcher. Recommended 5 stars.
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June 17, 2023Emotional and angry
As a retired Police officer, I read 'No Ordinary Day' with a mixture of deep sadness and extreme anger. Sadness for a life lost - a life like that of the vast majority of UK Police officers - dedicated to public service. Anger. Because that life was lost, in part, due to the political machinations of the government of the day.
As a retired Police officer, I read 'No Ordinary Day' with a mixture of deep sadness and extreme anger. Sadness for a life lost - a life like that of the vast majority of UK Police officers - dedicated to public service. Anger. Because that life was lost, in part, due to the political machinations of the government of the day.
July 17, 2023
A must read
Compelling reading, nails the gritty truth of dirty politics, the lengths gone to in order to achieve their agendas .. and how the death of a young female officer was used in order to "even scores" . Most importantly, it documents one man's journey to bring justice, despite being blocked constantly in the name of "national security"
Compelling reading, nails the gritty truth of dirty politics, the lengths gone to in order to achieve their agendas .. and how the death of a young female officer was used in order to "even scores" . Most importantly, it documents one man's journey to bring justice, despite being blocked constantly in the name of "national security"
June 21, 2023
A moving and enthralling account of the quest of PC John Murray to seek justice for his friend WPC Yvonne Fletcher. I knew something about this case, but this book expanded my knowledge greatly and gave me a better understanding.
June 17, 2023
no ordinary book
The story of PC Murray’s fight for justice to a fallen colleague, truly inspirational. Gives insight to the political meddling our Police services have been forced to come under. Great read, highly recommend.
The story of PC Murray’s fight for justice to a fallen colleague, truly inspirational. Gives insight to the political meddling our Police services have been forced to come under. Great read, highly recommend.
July 4, 2023
On April 17th, 1984, during an anti-Gaddafi demonstration outside the Libyan embassy in London, a burst of automatic gunfire suddenly rained down upon the crowd. Among the eleven wounded protesters was a female police officer, WPC Yvonne Fletcher, who later died in hospital.
Like many people of my generation, I can vividly remember the shooting. It was an incident that shocked the nation. Although the public had unfortunately become used to bombings by the IRA, nobody expected people to be blatantly mown down in a hail of bullets on the streets of London … particularly in broad daylight. However, although there was an immense feeling of sadness for the tragic death of one so young, none of us had any knowledge of the fact that it could have been avoided.
At the time, Thatcher’s government was locked in a bitter battle with the National Union of Mineworkers. With no end in sight for the strike, and coal supplies rapidly dwindling, negotiations had begun with the Libyans to obtain their oil, therefore the shooting of a police officer posed them a serious problem. If the police were allowed to investigate the murder it could risk upsetting the Libyans and jeopardise the oil deal, especially given the volatile nature of Muammar Gaddafi, whose increasing demands were becoming difficult to satisfy. So, to protect the deal and force the NUM into submission, plans were set in motion to prevent this from occurring.
None of this, however, deterred Yvonne’s colleague PC John Murray who, moments before the shooting, had swapped places with her. Cradling his friend’s head in his lap as she lay dying, he vowed he would not rest until those responsible had been brought to justice.
Determined to carry out his promise, when Yvonne’s killers were suddenly allowed to go free without explanation or accountability, his anger at the decision drove him to take matters into his own hands. However, as he set about knocking on doors and asking awkward questions, he was constantly blocked at every turn by the powers that be, who quoted the excuse of it being ‘in the interest of national security’.
Despite this, John refused to give up, and after almost four decades he has finally fulfilled that promise. This book is an extremely moving and eye-opening account of his long, and often dangerous, quest to not only discover the truth behind his friend’s death and bring her killers to justice, but also in the process expose the despicable behaviour and decisions of a self-serving government, who cared – and continue to care – more about their own agenda than the wellbeing of those who serve them.
I don’t often read non-fiction books, but I found this one totally engrossing and completely absorbing. The depth of research undertaken is obvious right from the first page and is a testament to the commitment and talent of Matt Johnson as an author. The result is a compelling account of secret service deals, government duplicity and political intervention, all designed to prevent the police from spoiling a plan to end the miners’ strike by denying their right to pursue the Libyan killers – all under the guise of ‘national security’. With their hands continually tied behind their backs because of government interference and restrictions, it’s little wonder that policing in this country has become the uphill struggle it is today.
In my opinion, everyone should read this book. The revelations will shock you but, sadly, they may not surprise you. If the government was capable of such despicable conduct and immoral decisions back then, what other secret dealings are they harbouring now?
Like many people of my generation, I can vividly remember the shooting. It was an incident that shocked the nation. Although the public had unfortunately become used to bombings by the IRA, nobody expected people to be blatantly mown down in a hail of bullets on the streets of London … particularly in broad daylight. However, although there was an immense feeling of sadness for the tragic death of one so young, none of us had any knowledge of the fact that it could have been avoided.
At the time, Thatcher’s government was locked in a bitter battle with the National Union of Mineworkers. With no end in sight for the strike, and coal supplies rapidly dwindling, negotiations had begun with the Libyans to obtain their oil, therefore the shooting of a police officer posed them a serious problem. If the police were allowed to investigate the murder it could risk upsetting the Libyans and jeopardise the oil deal, especially given the volatile nature of Muammar Gaddafi, whose increasing demands were becoming difficult to satisfy. So, to protect the deal and force the NUM into submission, plans were set in motion to prevent this from occurring.
None of this, however, deterred Yvonne’s colleague PC John Murray who, moments before the shooting, had swapped places with her. Cradling his friend’s head in his lap as she lay dying, he vowed he would not rest until those responsible had been brought to justice.
Determined to carry out his promise, when Yvonne’s killers were suddenly allowed to go free without explanation or accountability, his anger at the decision drove him to take matters into his own hands. However, as he set about knocking on doors and asking awkward questions, he was constantly blocked at every turn by the powers that be, who quoted the excuse of it being ‘in the interest of national security’.
Despite this, John refused to give up, and after almost four decades he has finally fulfilled that promise. This book is an extremely moving and eye-opening account of his long, and often dangerous, quest to not only discover the truth behind his friend’s death and bring her killers to justice, but also in the process expose the despicable behaviour and decisions of a self-serving government, who cared – and continue to care – more about their own agenda than the wellbeing of those who serve them.
I don’t often read non-fiction books, but I found this one totally engrossing and completely absorbing. The depth of research undertaken is obvious right from the first page and is a testament to the commitment and talent of Matt Johnson as an author. The result is a compelling account of secret service deals, government duplicity and political intervention, all designed to prevent the police from spoiling a plan to end the miners’ strike by denying their right to pursue the Libyan killers – all under the guise of ‘national security’. With their hands continually tied behind their backs because of government interference and restrictions, it’s little wonder that policing in this country has become the uphill struggle it is today.
In my opinion, everyone should read this book. The revelations will shock you but, sadly, they may not surprise you. If the government was capable of such despicable conduct and immoral decisions back then, what other secret dealings are they harbouring now?
December 20, 2024
Aa fan of British crime/detective novel, I’ve seen and felt the differences between the old timer and the new generation of policing but never understood the why…well, time change, that’s what I understood. Now, I understand. It’s eye opening on UK’s politic and how the police were reformed into today’s version. Most of all it’s engrossing, thrilling and touching story of a man who devoted his life the promise he made to his dying friend and colleague; find the truth, bring the justice. Matt Johnson did a great job showing us what happened that day decades ago and how John Murray tirelessly pursuing the quest of justice for Yvonne. It’s a 40 years of journey that hit me harder than any fiction. And while his quest is not fully done, yet. I do believe that one day, soon, we will see the fruit of his dedication.
“ Mabrouk is protected for now, but as his leader before him discovered loyalty in politic is a fickle thing. And as many cops will tell you; some we win, some we loose but the bad guys always come again. And when this one does, we will be waiting” John Murray.
“ Mabrouk is protected for now, but as his leader before him discovered loyalty in politic is a fickle thing. And as many cops will tell you; some we win, some we loose but the bad guys always come again. And when this one does, we will be waiting” John Murray.
December 30, 2023
This is a brilliant book. I was 8 when Yvonne Fletcher was murdered and I remember it well because my Dad was in the Met and it made me fearful for him. Obviously I was too young to understand anything beyond the fact that an unarmed, female police officer had been killed but this book is an eye opener. John’s absolutely dogged determination to get to the truth for his dear friend is just unbelievable. His tenacity and bravery brought me to tears. The political machinations and agendas of the government are staggering although, given the names involved, unsurprising. The sad fact of the political interference and neglect of the met since Thatcher is also devastating. Matt Johnson and John Murray have written a masterpiece. It is thoroughly researched, clinical and yet human. A must read.
March 28, 2024
I bought this book on the recommendation of Colin Sutton whilst attending a talk he gave at our local theatre. What an extraordinary man Matt Johnson is in spending many years trying to fight for justice and truth as to who was responsible for WPC Yvonne Fletcher’s death. Whilst I enjoyed the book, I did get lost many times in trying to understand who was who and the politics around the narrative.
I did want to keep reading however to find out just what happened in the end. I also found his summing up of the Met police quite poignant and topical as he compared the institution now and how it was back in the 80’s. Hats off to Matt Johnson who fought tirelessly to find truth for his good friend/colleague and her family.
I did want to keep reading however to find out just what happened in the end. I also found his summing up of the Met police quite poignant and topical as he compared the institution now and how it was back in the 80’s. Hats off to Matt Johnson who fought tirelessly to find truth for his good friend/colleague and her family.
September 6, 2023
An exceptional, yet disturbing, read!
As a former British Police Officer myself, and having now read the 2023 book ‘No Ordinary Day’, by author Matt Johnson with John Murray, about the London murder of Woman Police Constable Yvonne Fletcher on April 17, 1984, and the surrounding political scandal stifling efforts to finally bring her killers to Justice, I urge anyone with a functioning moral compass to read this book, and to support the petition for a Public Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding this Officer’s death, and the apparent subsequent scandalous political cover-up preventing the truth from being surfaced.
https://tinyurl.com/yckwvysu
As a former British Police Officer myself, and having now read the 2023 book ‘No Ordinary Day’, by author Matt Johnson with John Murray, about the London murder of Woman Police Constable Yvonne Fletcher on April 17, 1984, and the surrounding political scandal stifling efforts to finally bring her killers to Justice, I urge anyone with a functioning moral compass to read this book, and to support the petition for a Public Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding this Officer’s death, and the apparent subsequent scandalous political cover-up preventing the truth from being surfaced.
https://tinyurl.com/yckwvysu
February 29, 2024
This was a library book club book so not one that I would have chosen to read. I found it surprisingly easy and interesting to read and the espionage and conspiracy was fascinating. I do think it is over long and repetitive in parts but that explained the complexity of the case. The book read like fiction and I had to keep reminding myself that it was all true. I remember the murder and the siege but would never have linked it to the Miners’ Strike. One slight reservation is that the focus was on a White policewoman murdered in a terrible misinformed mess and she should have justice but where was the empathy for the Libyans who were also killed.
April 12, 2024
Just Wow! This book reminded me of many things which I saw and heard at the time but then informed me of so many things which I simply did not know. I doesn’t just explain what happened to WPC Yvonne Fletcher but clarifies a lot of other things which were happening around that time. Whilst appreciating that the authors may just have an agenda about this, it does goes a long way to explaining why policing is in the state it is these days.
It is worth reading to gain an better understanding of what is happening around us even now and why politicians should never have control of policing.
It is worth reading to gain an better understanding of what is happening around us even now and why politicians should never have control of policing.
July 14, 2025
This whole book reads like a newspaper report, the tone ia straightforward, succinct and to the point. I heard about the incident is passing and went looking for a book on it to learn more and it turned out to be a crazy read that is pretty shocking in places and it's surprising it's not discussed more it's such a series of events took place in modern Britain. This book packs in plenty of context and as a result we get a a fair coverage of the the Uk political eatablishment of the times, along with the modern history of Libya - it's just as much political history as it is true crime/story of a tragedy.
October 6, 2023
This was the most compelling book I have read in long time. The dedication of one man to get justice for a fellow officer and friend. Against parliatcal hindrance and government departments. As well as government leaders at home and abroad. The killing of W.P.C Yvonne fletcher. Was without dout one of the most rememberbal events in my life time. Or tho I was not in the police force. The injustice of the criminal act against her shooting not only by the gunmen but the government in charge of this country at the time. Was unbelievable.
February 25, 2024
One of the best books I have ever read.
WPC Yvonne Fletcher was killed on the 17th April 1984, the 17th April is my birthday so I am always reminded of this shocking shooting and of how this happened on the streets of London
I have just finished this book and the contents have really changed my mind on so many things -
I highly recommend that you read this book
'All the ingredients of a Le Carre Novel, only its real' - Matthew Hall said
'An important book, especially now - both an intensely personal story, and a sober analysis of a political scandal' - Lee Child said
WPC Yvonne Fletcher was killed on the 17th April 1984, the 17th April is my birthday so I am always reminded of this shocking shooting and of how this happened on the streets of London
I have just finished this book and the contents have really changed my mind on so many things -
I highly recommend that you read this book
'All the ingredients of a Le Carre Novel, only its real' - Matthew Hall said
'An important book, especially now - both an intensely personal story, and a sober analysis of a political scandal' - Lee Child said
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