A TELEVISION actor has given a helping hand to his former flatmate, who has launched his second book of poetry.

Kevin Whately, who is famous as Sergeant Lewis in television detective series Inspector Morse, in which he starred with John Thaw, is supporting North Yorkshire county councillor Paul Richardson, from Littlethorpe, near Ripon.

Mr Whately, also known for his appearances in television series including Auf Wiedersehen, Pet and Peak Practice, has never lost touch with his friend.

Coun Richardson, who represents the Masham and Fountains area on the county council, shared a flat with the actor when they lived and worked in Newcastle.

He said: "I'm delighted he has come up with a foreword for the book and that he likes what I've done."

The pair were articled to accountants in Newcastle during the 1960s but went their separate ways.

Mr Whately said his friend's poetry represents feelngs that were understandable and identifiable in us all.

Coun Richardson, 56, was prompted to write poetry because of childhood observations of his life in a vicarage when his father Jack was a clergyman at Mitford, in Northumberland.

Most of the councillor's early writing was inspired by the sea because he came from a family with strong Royal Navy links.

His latest book, A New Beginning, includes poetry about Native Americans, and the Warriors of the Great Plains.

The councillor will sign copies of the book between 10am and 3pm on Saturday, December 4, at The House of Stratus book shop, in Ripon.

John Fusco, writer of The Young Guns and the recent western film Hidalgo, has also supported the launch.

In a message to the councillor, Mr Fusco said: "Paul's love and respect for the native world view is palpable in the writings.