Invitation led to literary pursuit

When Wendy Boorman, of Magpie Close, started her research into the history of St Mark's Church, she 'just got carried away'.

And before she knew it, she had too much material just to give a talk so decided to put it into a book.

The result could be seen at her home at the weekend with the arrival of the first 150 copies from St Leonards-based printers Impression IT.

It looks set to sell out fast with more than 80 pre-publication orders, no doubt many destined to be handed out by Father Christmas.

Wendy's enthusiasm for everything she undertakes is well known. She helps out with the Brownies, is organiser for the monthly parish lunch, is fundraising co-ordinator for the Raise the Roof appeal to extend and improve St Mark's Church Hall, helps out at the Sunday crche and to top it all, is a busy grandma.

It comes as no surprise then that with a little encouragement she immersed herself in turning the information she had researched and gathered into a book.

Her dedication even meant she took her research on holiday so she could set it out on her laptop.

"It was the only time I had to sit down," said Wendy.

"Never having done anything like this before, it was a bit of a mammoth task.

"There were times I thought 'whatever have I let myself in for?' but I did enjoy it. People in the church gave me pictures and stories and it snowballed."

So much so that she is already thinking of a follow-up book of people's memories.

The History of St Mark's Church comprises 95 pages of historical facts - including 46 colour pages - and is on sale for 8.50 with all profits going towards the Raise the Roof Appeal.

Copies are available from The Ark in The Twitten in Little Common weekdays between 10am and 1pm or by calling 848453 and leaving your details.