More than 40 people attended a book reading and interview session with a published author.

Annika Perry visited members of Gosfield's Cuppa Club and spoke about her life and newly found career as an author.

Mrs Perry, who until three years ago worked as an administrator in the timber trade, has just published her first book, The Storyteller Speaks, which is a collection of short stories and poems.

Speaking after the session, she said: "I’m overjoyed with the wonderful reception from everyone. It’s fabulous."

"Initially I felt rather daunted as I had misheard and expected 14 people to be present, in the end over 40 attended."

Gosfield resident Mrs Perry was interviewed by Cuppa Club volunteer Ann Chapman, with the club delighted with the response from members to the event.

Sheila Allen, of Church Street, Gosfield, is one of the original founders of Cuppa Club.

She said: "I had no idea Annika was writing; she kept that quiet.

"We only realised when we saw an article in Halstead Gazette at the beginning of the year."

Mrs Perry is currently working on her first full-length novel, titled Island Girl, and also writing a children's book.

The Storyteller Speaks is available to buy from Amazon or to borrow from the Little Book Cafe, in Hedingham Road, Halstead.