THE launch of a book written by a former North-East councillor about his battle with a debilitating condition attracted more than 100 people.

Philip Graham, from New Coundon, in County Durham, penned I’m Going Nowhere! to tell the story of how he lives with Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

The father-of-two, who used to be a Durham County Councillor and lead singer of Share The Darkness, was diagnosed two years ago with the condition, which causes the body's immune system to attack the nervous system, resulting in progressive muscle weakness and co-ordination problems.

The book starts with the first symptoms experienced by Mr Graham, through his diagnosis, treatment and recovery, up to how he manages with present day obstacles.

He also wants to raise awareness of Guillian-Barre Syndrome, which affects between 1,000 to 1,200 people a year.

Dr Neil Archibald, consultant neurologist at James Cook University Hospital and Caroline Morris, from the charity Guillain-Barre and Associated Inflammatory Neuropathies (GAIN), which will receive all proceeds from book sales, were among those who attended the official book launch, at the Park Head Hotel, in New Coundon, on Saturday.

Orders have already been received from as far afield as the USA, Canada and Spain and 79 copies were purchased at Saturday’s event.

Mr Graham was initially reluctant to put pen to paper, but expressed his delight with the outcome of the novel-style document, which he painstakingly typed with one finger and two thumbs.

He said: “I am excited and thrilled that the book is done. It has been quite a labour of love.

“It has attracted quite a lot of interest.”

He paid tribute to his wife, Janet, for her unwavering support and described her as “a tower of strength.”

He said: “I was in hospital for ten months and all I could do was lie there and get better, but she did so much to keep everything together.”

Mrs Graham added: “This is another milestone in the family’s journey.

“I am thrilled that we are at this stage and hopefully we will do good work for the charity and raise awareness of the condition.”

To buy the book, which costs £9.99 plus £2 for postage, call 01388-602479, email phil@filmar.co.uk or send Mr Graham a message through Facebook.

For information on Guillain-Barre Syndrome, visit gaincharity.org.uk.