A RETIRED Galashiels man has written a compilation of 27 short stories based in diverse locations such as Yorkshire, Antarctica and the Ettrick Valley.

David Adamson's book Ettrick and Beyond was launched at the MacArts Centre in Galashiels earlier this month where here read extracts to the audience before being interviewed on stage.

The stories begin with the challenging walk undertaken by valley children to Redford Green Primary School (Selkirkshire) during the great 1947 snow storm.

There is also a story that leaves readers to figure out the location for themselves.

Mr Adamson started writing at the Peebles Writing Group four-years ago after being inspired by the Borders Book Festival.

He says that the town of Galashiels and the Borders have provided a significant inspiration for his stories.

He said: “Writing my first story book was both challenging and immensely satisfying and I would like to thank the Peebles Writing Group for their encouragement.

“I’d also like to thank Rhiannon Hunt for the design and El Smale for the editing and also Andrea McGuire for the delightful illustrations which beautifully complement my stories.

“The stories are fictional but have been peppered by my own experiences and I have been to many of the places mentioned although in others I have had to use my imagination.

“For example, the story I read at the book launch was The Candidate which was set in Castlebar in County Mayo. I was there during the election period, but the characters are fictional.

“My other favourites include Who was Charles Green who took part in Sir Ernest Shackleton’s expedition to Antarctica, and La Manche which involves seven islands in seven days.”

Ettrick and Beyond is available to purchase at Guess What Café in Galashiels High Street and Scott’s Book Shop in Selkirk. It costs £7.99.