A freelancer and former regional business editor has written his second children’s book.

John Duckers, who worked for the Birmingham Post and now freelances in PR and the media, has penned his latest creation ‘The Crazy Adventures of the Silly Six’.

The book follows on from his debut effort ‘The Amazing Adventures of the Silly Six’.

It features characters including Angus McMonty, a snake who is really a softie, Felicity, the very upmarket dog, Suzi, the almost sensible cat, Percy, the timid parrot, Nasher, the fearless hamster, and slightly quirky Mole.

Set in Scotland, where John worked for Aberdeen daily the Press and Journal for 16 years, the Silly Six’s earlier adventures ranged from meeting up with an escaped kangaroo from the local zoo to travelling to Inverness in search of the Loch Ness monster.

In the new series of stories they look to blast off into space and attempt to launch a punk band.

It is aimed at a wide audience of youngsters, primarily in the 6 to 12 age range.

John’s first book raised £2,000 for a local leukaemia charity and this one benefits Performances Birmingham Limited, the registered charity that manages Birmingham Town Hall Symphony Hall.

For every copy of the book sold, a significant donation will be made by the author to support the charity’s work.

John, a member of Birmingham Press Club, said: “The initial book went well, selling around 650 copies, which I am told is good for a first time author who does not enjoy the profile of being a TV/film/media personality.

“The feedback from children was brilliant – they loved it. The hard part is persuading parents to reach for their wallets and purses.”

He added: “The Crazy Adventures of the Silly Six is the sequel which is equally fun and whacky.

“It is about putting joy and laughter into youngsters’ lives while giving something back in the name of charity.

“I particularly want to thank Investec for their generous backing and Town Hall Symphony Hall for their commitment and enthusiasm.”

Retailing at £7.99, plus £3.50 recorded delivery postage and packing per copy if mailed out in the UK, it can be purchased by calling 0121 644 5193 or emailing [email protected].