METHERELL author Kathy Lovell signed copies of her new children's book Under the Fountain at Book Stop in Tavistock recently.

Kathy started writing the book after her daughter Bryony was diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of eight. During this difficult period, Bryony's constant request was to meet and identify with children who had been in a similar situation. Finding the lack of children's books on the subject frustrating, Kathy endeavoured to write her own to help children going through treatment for the disease.

The book draws inspiration from Kathy's love of the South West's coastline, as well as the positive experiences that her family experienced from the medical profession throughout Bryony's illness.

It tells the story of a young boy diagnosed with leukaemia who has a close bond with a grey seal. Despite his illness, the boy's adventures make him a hero. Kathy's aim was to write a book that inspired children, but also gave a factual account of the treatment leukaemia sufferers receive.

She said: 'Bryony just wanted to be like other kids and when she was told she would probably lose her hair, she wanted to meet someone else who had.'

Bryony received intensive treatment for two years, spending frequent spells in Bristol Children's Hospital.

She is now a fit and healthy 22-year-old, who was told she had made a complete recovery six years ago.

Under the Fountain is priced at £5.99, and can be purchased at Book Stop. All the proceeds raised by the book will go to children's cancer charity CLIC-Sargent.