A MAGICAL tale for children has been penned by a Darlington author.

Retired teacher Mike Watson recently published his first book, Earthstrider, which tells the tale of a village helped out by an unusual stranger.

Mr Watson, who is a member of the Darlington-based Inkerman Writers group, said: “I am delighted that it has been published.

“Consulting with an illustrator and an editor about layout and covers has been a unique experience and witnessing the book evolve has been fascinating.”

Earthstrider can be bought on Amazon or from thynkspublications.co.uk.