A WOMAN originally from Denbighshire who went to Oxford University and later became a nun has written her first book.

Sister Claire Waddelove is a former pupil of Ysgol Brynhyfryd school in Ruthin.

On January 12, she released her debut book entitled 'Our Father: A Biblical Meditation on the Lord’s Prayer' which has been published by Gracewing Ltd.

The task of writing the book began two years ago after Sister Claire had the idea of collecting Biblical texts related to the Our Father, initially just for her own benefit.

She said: "“You could say it is a book about the final destiny for each of us and how we can reach it safely.

“And, of course, God Himself has written half of it. His word is alive and active, speaking to every individual here and now, as He calls us to Himself.

“I copied the texts by hand and gradually could see various themes emerging within each line of the prayer. After some months it struck me that the study could be developed into a book.

“It encourages us to deepen our interior spiritual life, to intensify our relationship with our Creator in response to His love for us because, ultimately, that what we will take with us beyond the grave and into the light of eternity.

“Long ago my history teacher, Mr Roger Edwards, was complimentary about my essays and said that he hoped one day to read a book written by me. “I don't suppose he ever had this one in mind - but then neither did I.

“I hope it appeals to anyone and everyone looking for the meaning of life, especially since the pandemic has shown us there must be more to it than work and entertainment."

Sister Claire joined the contemplative order of Benedictines on the Isle of Wight after a year in banking following her graduation.

Her late parents, Edmund and Bernadette Waddelove, lived at Ffordd Gwynach in Ruthin after he became the chief forester at Clocaenog Forest.

They were parishioners at the town's Our Lady Help of Christians RC Church for over 40 years.

Proceeds from sales of her 190 page book, priced at £12.99, will help the nuns to continue to be a self-sufficient community. Copies are available from www.gracewing.co.uk/page315.html and www.stceciliasabbey.org.uk/site.php?menuaccess=22.