FORMER F1 commentator Murray Walker is used to describing record-breaking performances from the likes of Michael Shumacher, but the enigmatic broadcaster might just have written himself into the record books at the grand old age of 78, writes Mike Turner.

His new autobiography, Unless I'm Very Much Mistaken, looks set to become one of the year's best sellers and is being hotly tipped to remove cricket umpire Dickie Bird's autobiography from the top of the top-selling sports books of all time list.

In Salisbury for a special signing session at Ottakar's, the newly retired Birmingham-born broadcaster told Journal Sport: "That is my personal objective - to beat Dickie Bird."

The ever-popular character - loved by millions because of his enthusiastic, if sometimes unorthodox style, is currently on a UK promotional tour which has attracted thousands of people.

"I'm absolutely delighted with the book and the response it's getting," he said. "I've literally signed 20,000 copies already. My hand's holding up well from all the signings, but it's a bit tough on the neck - but that's a very small price to pay."

Russell Moore, a sales rep for publishers HarperCollins, said he was very pleased by the turnout in Salisbury for the author's visit.

"Salisbury proved to be one of the nicest crowds we've had yet for a signing. Murray had arrived a little late because of doing a lunch time signing in Basingstoke, but people were most understanding.

"There's been a fantastic response to the book already and I'm sure it will continue right up to Christmas as it will make an ideal present."