Octogenarian’s book goes global, raising funds for Dorothy House

SALES of a children’s book written by an 88-year-old Westbury resident have gone global and raised £2,500 for Dorothy House.

Gerry Ford, a resident of Abbeyfield House in Westbury, wrote a collection of children’s stories called Animal Stories last year, which feature tales he used to tell his children 40 years ago. They include tales of an array of loveable characters including Baby Elephant, Donkey, Max the Kitten and Sam the Puppy.

As Dorothy House is a cause close to Gerry’s heart after staff cared for his wife, Gerry agreed to donate £2 from every book sold to the charity. With sales coming in from the UK and around the world including from the US, France, Germany, South Africa to name a few, the total has now reached £2,500.

Gerry explained, “My wife, Barbara, sadly had a brain tumour. The staff at Dorothy House looked after her day and night at the end of her life, so £2 from each book goes to them.”

A Dorothy House spokesperson added, “A huge thank you to Gerry for raising such an incredible amount!”

Animal Stories is still available for purchase at £6 (plus £1.50 P&P), £2 of which goes directly to Dorothy House. Copies can be ordered by writing to Gerry Ford, c/o 29 Gibbs Leaze, Hilperton, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 7QN. Cheques should be made payable to Mr. G Ford.

To find out more about Dorothy House, including how to donate, visit: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk