A weekly newspaper journalist whose first book was published earlier this year will speak at a book festival on Saturday.

Stephen Thirkill, from the Mansfield Chad, wrote his book Tourist Trails to highlight seven tourist attractions in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, including Hardwick Hall, Teversal Trails and Chatsworth House.

Now he is set to speak at Lowdham Book Festival about writing the book and the reasons behind it.

Said Stephen: “This is the first time I have been invited to attend the festival as a speaker and I am deeply honoured to have the invite. The festival is a highlight of the local literary calender and to be a part of it gives me a real buzz.

“I’m pretty nervous about the prospect of getting in front of so many people to talk about my experiences, but I’m delighted to have the opportunity. I’m sure it will be a day to remember for me and I hope people enjoy my talk.”

The event takes place on Saturday from 10.30-11.30am at Lowdham Methodist Chapel.