Woodstock Opticians is supporting local business and people by hosting a book signing for author Fran Gabaldoni with his first book, Childish Ways.

Mr Gabaldoni was brought up in Combe and his novel is based in a Cotswolds village.

He said: “The book is called Childish Ways and is about a man reflecting on his own idyllic childhood as he tries to comprehend devastating news about his daughter.”

Mr Gabaldoni’s one-and-a-half year old daughter was diagnosed with leukaemia.

He said: “Many years later I decided to write down the story through my eyes as her father and contrast that story with my idyllic childhood. The story alternates between hilarious escapades of the late 1970s to the horrors and anguish of dealing with a chronically sick child."

Amazon and Goodreads describe it as “a must read” and “deeply affecting”.

Mr Gabaldoni will be signing copies at Woodstock Opticians on Friday between 11am and 2pm.

Optometrist Shauna Lyons said: “I really enjoyed his book, well written, a good story and the added interest of lots of local places mentioned.”

Email info@woodstockopticians.co.uk to book a slot.