A VISUALLY impaired former Rossendale Council employee has launched his own autobiography.

The launch event of Richard Lees' book, entitled A Stinging Tale, is to be held at The Old Municipal Buildings, Somerset, tomorrow.

The book explains the cause of Richard's sight loss and reveals his battles to overcome the consequences of his blindness as a young man.

He decided to put pen to paper after a childhood friend challenged him to create a book about his progress from being a budding young footballer to a family man and advocate for Barnardo's in Somerset.

Richard, who moved to Somerset, after spending many years working for Rossendale Council, said: "I am thrilled that my story has appeared in print and hope that it will encourage others who have had to face difficulties.

"Fred Clarke of Rocket Publishing Company Ltd has made the book possible and I am grateful for his encouragement and good humour throughout the process.

"If readers enjoy even one anecdote I will be delighted."

Critics have given the book the thumbs-up and said his triumphs over adversity are described with "frankness and humour".

Family friend and former mayor, Adrian Prior-Sankey, has written the foreword to the book. In it he said: "Richard has told the story of his life so far with great honesty.

"I do hope that, like me, you will enjoy the insights he has given into the very fulfilling life that is possible for someone who has had to overcome many obstacles in the otherwise normal ups and downs of human existence while never once seeking sympathy."

The book is available from most good book shops priced at £6.99.