A LIFESTYLE change three years ago, to deal with health issues, has turned Ledbury man, Scott Greatwood, into an author, and his home area is his subject.

Mr Greatwood returned to his love for art and photography, and the outcome is “The Ledbury Countryside in Pictures and Poems”, which has just gone on sale and is, in fact, his second book to sing the area’s praises.

He said: “Since I was a child I have always had a talent for art doing the odd picture when I was a teenager and through my working career but I didn’t have the time to pursue it .

“Three years ago I had to change my lifestyle considerably, so I decided it was the time to resurrect my flair for art and photography . I was soon painting, drawing and sketching madly, churning out work at a mad rate and using my skill for pen and ink I embarked upon a series of pictures of Ledbury buildings and countryside landmarks around .

“This evolved into greetings cards, postcards and various other gifts with several local traders and shopkeepers supporting me I formed scott-ART with a website ,Instagram and facebook page to promote my art.”

Mr Greatwood added: “I noticed that many artists had created books so with a thought of promoting my art more I set about my first book which I called “ Ledbury a year in Poems and Pictures” with my mother,myself and friends contributing the poetry. This book featured local scenes and events throughout the year in the town and it was all created by myself and was an instant success. Based on this I approached Aspect Design in Malvern to help my produce a rather special book which indeed we have.”

He added: "Once again local traders have embraced my efforts and amongst others Ledbury Books and Maps in the High Street have stocked the book."