A former Worcester News journalist has just had his fifth book published, which is based in Worcestershire.

Tony Bassett is known for his series of novels based in the county, and his most recent - 'Heir To Murder' - was published on Monday, December 4.

The novel follows the story of a viscount's younger son who rebels against his family, drawing enemies due to his love of loud music.

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Enraged by the noise, a long-suffering neighbour bursts into the viscount's son's flat, discovering him lying in a pool of blood.

Following a deadly incident in his flat, an enraged neighbour is found over the body and swiftly becomes the primary suspect.

However, Detective Sergeant Sunita Roy refuses to accept the simple narrative, believing there is more to the murder than meets the eye.

In the novel Mr Bassett paints a picture of the detective's determination to uncover the truth - a journey which has her delving into the viscount's family history and a mysterious disappearance two years prior.

His book is particularly geared towards Worcestershire audiences, as it incorporates the familiar area of Redditch, as well as Stratford-upon-Avon.

Published by London-based The Book Folks, 'Heir To Murder' is now available for purchase on Amazon as an ebook, paperback or hardback.

Prior books in the series include 'Murder On Oxford Lane', 'The Crossbow Stalker', 'Murder Of A Doctor', and 'Out for Revenge'.

Speaking of his fondness for the region, Mr Bassett said: "It seemed to me the Worcestershire and Warwickshire area was the obvious place to set a series of novels because you have the beauty of the Malvern Hills and the Cotswolds; the charm of Worcester and Stratford-upon-Avon; the picturesque country villages; and the intrigue and fascination of Birmingham’s urban landscape."

Mr Bassett previously worked at Worcester News in the 1970s, with his career going on to include roles at several national newspapers, primarily the Sunday People, reporting on crime, show business, human interest and consumer topics.

Now a Life Member of the National Union of Journalists, he currently resides in South-East London.