Cheryl Simmons (Our Friends in Fairfield Gardens)
Growing up in the Welsh valleys, I was mesmerised with the stories my nan and other family members would tell me, I would sit enthralled, hanging on every word. Drinking in their words, conjuring up magically their stories in my head.
I moved to Hailsham in September 2024 from the Meads in Eastbourne, with my husband Mark, and Freddy our 7-month-old puppy.
I wrote Our Friends in Fairfield Gardens, whilst living in the Meads. I sat one day looking out of my lounge window, watching 2 squirrels playing, also hearing an owl at night in a nearby tree, and watching a family of foxes, gave me an idea for my book.
I wrote the book in lockdown, as I was off work for 3 months for my grandchildren. My grandchildren’s characteristics are in each of the young ones of the grey family, who are squirrels. There is also the main character, Mr Hoot who is a wise old owl, who incidentally is also the teacher.
The story follows the lives of all the animals who live in Fairfield Gardens, each little story has a moral to learn. You will meet other characters along the way too who are just as enchanting. I have loved writing the book, watching the characters come alive on the page.
Alex Jones from the One Show on the BBC enjoyed my book calling it charming. Even Prince William has a copy too.
I used to book keep for a homeless charity in St Leonards On Sea called Surviving The Streets, so I am now trying to raise funds for them with the book.
I have always loved writing. I have a very vivid imagination. I have so many book ideas in my head, I need to set free.