A MAN who overcame learning difficulties to write a book sold copies to raise money for his local church.

Jason Wilson, 22, of Coundon, could not read or write until recently, but last year penned Travels of a Grasshopper, about his time travelling around the world.

His book earned a Spirit of Enterprise Award from the Northern Pinetree Trust, and he is writing a second.

Mr Wilson sold copies at a spring fair in aid of St James's Church's Under the Roof appeal.

The appeal began three years ago, with the aim of renovating the church's dome ceiling and the rest of the building. Having achieved that, more money is being raised to create disabled access, toilets, kitchen and an educational porch.

Mr Wilson moved to the village about 18 months ago and said he was keen to help the church's efforts.

He said: "I am a Christian and thought if there's anything I can do to help the appeal, I would. So I have decided to sell the books and raise money."

For each copy of the £7.99 book sold, £3.50 was donated to the appeal, which parish priest Father Gary Nicholson said was well on the way to reaching its target.

Funds were also raised with stalls and tables, including a tombola, raffle, home-made food and a splat the rat game.