AN author has launched his debut fiction book to help a cause that supported him in his time of need.

Tom Bridge, from Boothstown, had a stroke two years ago and was given support by the Stroke Association to aid his recovery.

The dad-of-two has released his book The Mystery of Gogarth Abbey and has a book-signing event at The Urmston Book Shop at 7pm this evening, Tuesday, with all sales of the book on the night going to the charity.

The book, which was written by Tom as part of his healing process, tells the story of a group of girls who investigate the mystery of the abbey while they are on a school trip.

Tom, 57, said: “Having a stroke made me lose the feeling on my left side and I have had to work really hard with my physiotherapist to regain a lot of my movement and to build up my strength.

“But I have still got some weakness in my left side, particularly my mouth.

“It has also affected me emotionally and knocked my confidence.

“Throughout my recovery, I had the support of the Stroke Association and I am so glad they were there for me.

“They understood what I was going through and helped me so much.

“That is why I have chosen to raise funds for the charity through my writing so they can help others affected by stroke to get the support they need.

“Writing this book gave me something positive to focus on.

“It took around a year to write and I am so proud of it.”

The charity has praised Tom for his backing.

Community and events fundraiser at the Stroke Association, Sian Thomas, added: “We are incredibly grateful to Tom for choosing to support the Stroke Association.

“Every five minutes someone in the UK has a stroke.

“The money raised by Tom will go towards helping more stroke survivors and their families to rebuild their lives.”

Tickets for the event tonight are priced at £3 per person which is redeemable against the price of the book and includes refreshments.

To reserve a ticket contact 0161 747 7442, or e-mail books@urmston-bookshop.co.uk.

The Mystery of Gogarth Abbey is available to purchase online at amazon.co.uk and direct from the publishers, Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie.

For more information about strokes, visit stroke.org.uk or call the Stroke Association Helpline on 0303 3033100.