TWO authors from Devizes have published very different types of books in time for Christmas.

Anne Holland, who lives in Stanton St Bernard, near Devizes, has just published a book on the Grand National while sculptor Mark Whelehan has brought a new poetry book called Dawn Sail Over Crookwood.

He has not only written the poems but also done the illustrations. The book also includes six poems by his father Dr Seos Whelehan who was a psychaitrist at Roundway Hospital.

Mr Whelehan said: “I was born in Devizes in 1955 and after a career in acting and props began sculpting in 1994.

“Since then I have done film work and writing and teaching sculpture at Bath University.

“I have three large carved wooden sculptures at Potterne and Urchfont churches and at Dauntsey’s school my almer mater.”

Grandmother Ann has been a fan of the Grand National since she was a girl and remembers her first bet on the big race.

She said: “It was sixpence on Kilmore, ridden by the man who was to become my hero, Fred Winter.”

This is her 27th published title and she has enjoyed the research. She said: “There is always a good story connected with the Grand National winner.

“That’s why it’s been such fun writing this book – talking to both famous people and to otherwise little-known jockeys who have gone on to win the National, sometimes more than once, hearing from different trainers and owners about the characteristics of their special horse. People are so helpful.” She is a keen rider herself and even competed in a hurdle race at Aintree on Grand National day.