A Cumbrian writer who has since moved from the borders region has released his debut novel.

Ted Winter, whose family are originally from Blennerhasset near Wigton, will be releasing a comic fiction novel titled The Enigma of Four.

He says that his memories of Cumbria are a major inspiration for the book.

Mr Winter said: It started as a challenge by my wife to write a short story.

"So I composed a jovial account based on some holiday experiences in the north of Portugal and an amusing train journey to a border town.

"Once the train arrived in the station I simply had to carry on, the Enigma of Four is the result."

Whilst he is now based in Dorset, his family roots are in Cumbria and memories of the Lakes, Hadrian's Wall and the Great Border City itself are reflected strongly in the life of the main character.

The book has been published by Olympia Publishers, London.

Ted draws on his twenty five years as a teacher to develop the main character, Bear Hoskins.

The character Bear Hoskins is fascinated with the borders region.

The story follows Bear as he meets sales representative Sophie Bingham whilst on holiday in Portugal.

She leaves an item of rare jewellery which Bear manges to return to her and their relationship develops amongst other comical happenings.

Ted says that he found the lure of comic fiction irresistable and completed writing the piece in the early months of lockdown.