She is telling tales!

Telling Tales is a trilogy by Malvern-based writer Shirley Farley and includes stories aimed at producing feelings of contentment, hope and encouragement. They are all fiction but are based on the history of Worcestershire.

Available as a talking book on either tape or CD, Telling Tales has been produced specially for those with sight problems or as a verbal companion when travelling.

Shirley's first book, Fern Cottage Remembers, tells the story of 152 Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, and her experiences in the house.

It is narrated by the Victorian House, which stands near to the entrance to Bromsgrove School.

The third part of the latest book, called The Door, is also based on the author's life. When she was giving birth to her second child Deborah, Shirley had a near-death experience.

During the birth she lost a lot of blood and in The Door she recalls going through 'the tunnel' before being brought back to life with a transfusion.

"All three stories are based on the truth and as there is no bad language in them, they should not cause offence to anyone," she said.

"I have seen and done a lot with my life and they are things other people can relate to. I just thought one day that I would write them all down in stories, flowering them up a little, but basically telling them as they happened.

"The response to my first book was overwhelming, people loved it. So I thought why not write another one?"

And it does not stop there. Shirley is currently in the process of writing a third book called Seen but Not Heard.

"I do not want to give too much away, although I will say that this too is based locally.

"What I do want though is an actress to read out the stories. I am not happy recording my voice and so I like other people to do it. A man has recorded Telling Tales."

Telling Tales is on sale at Ottaker's bookshop in Worcester, Revill Farm Shop in Defford, Pershore and Arcade Books in Pershore.

It is priced at £5.99.