A DENBIGHSHIRE author who has recently published two books hopes they can help 'inspire more children to pick up books and find a love of reading'.

Vicki Riley, from Llanrhaeadr, initially began writing books for her own children during the Covid-19 lockdown.

However, the 38-year-old quickly discovered a real love for writing and turned that passion into having her books published.

Her first two - 'Madame McGrue and Guppy Too' and 'The Little Lost Elf' are available to buy in State of Distress in Ruthin, Siop y Pentre in Llanrhaeadr or on Amazon now.

Mother-of-four Vicki said: "I have written poetry and short stories for as long as I can remember. But, over lockdown we had lots of spare time to focus on hobbies and interests and my collection of children's rhyming stories grew.

"Through Lockdown, I sat down and wrote stories to entertain my children when we couldn't buy anything non essential in the shops.

"After seeing the reaction my stories got from my own children I decided to take a big risk and do something with my stories and have them published."

Vicki is now running a competition ahead of releasing her third book - 'The Monster In My Cupboard'.

She wants kids to get involved with an illustration of the monster and the winning picture will feature on the end page with the winning child's name under their drawing.

The winning child will also receive a signed copy of the book and a £50 Amazon gift voucher.

To enter, send your child's drawing with their name and age to @vickirileypoems on Facebook, vickirileyauthor on Instagram or emailed to vickirileyauthor@gmail.com

Open to all children up to 12 years of age until December 31.

Vicki added: "I really want to inspire more children to pick up books and find a love of reading and writing and hope that my book and future books can help to do that.

"I'm just a local Mum finding her passion amidst the isolation of lockdown!"

To purchase Vicki's books, visit: www.amazon.co.uk/Madame-McGrue-Guppy-Too-rhyming/