Grandad pens children's book for Children's Hospice SW

Derek Ortonjay-Smart, a grandfather-of-four from Wells, has written Charlie’s Date with Destiny to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

The book tells the tale of two red squirrels, Angus and Alistair, trying to find a cure for a disease that's decimating their species.

A mission that takes them on a UK-wide pursuit.

They journey from Scotland to Somerset, joined by Charlie the chipmunk, who they aim to reunite with his owner in the west country.

Along their voyage, the three friends face numerous challenging situations, which they must handle.

They finally locate the cure at Glastonbury Tor and save the red squirrel population from the deadly pox brought in by the grey squirrels.

Charlie is also reunited with his owner Tommy in Bristol, having learned valuable lessons along the journey.

Retired businessman Derek said: "The book tells the story of reinforcing what we all have inside us.

"It looks at what truth, moral values, trust, kindness, and self-worth really means."

He added: "I am a keen painter, but this time I have put down my brushes and picked up a pen instead."

Profits from the sale of the book will benefit CHSW, a charity that Mr Ortonjay-Smart and his wife Linda have long supported.

The author has already raised over £2,000 for CHSW by selling his paintings during an exhibition at Wells Museum.

Moreover, he and his wife donated three ornamental deer to the charity’s Charlton Farm site.

Mr Ortonjay-Smart said: "We have always been inspired by the work of the charity, and we wanted to raise money to help the children and the families it supports."

The book, priced at £9.99 and suitable for children between 7 and 11-years-old, is published by White Magic Studios.

Derek Ortonjay-Smart is planning a book signing at the CHSW charity shop in Wells.

Orders for the book can be placed by emailing Derek Ortonjay-Smart at dmse19@gmail.com.