The Fearless Fred stories came about because one of my sons had a Border Terrier puppy. I look after him when the family go away and as I am an artist I started to draw him.
The stories developed because he was a plucky, lively puppy and always trying to get out of the garden.
The first book took him on a journey through London and, of course, meeting the Queen’s corgis and saving the jewels was a big adventure.
The second book is about the wood at the bottom of my garden. All the animals which are mentioned live in the wood. Romeo Rascal, Fred’s little friend, really is a rascal and happily leads him into trouble.
The third book is about going to the seaside when Uncle Drew took them for a day out. Happy Holly is his new friend and together they have a great adventure ending up saving a little girl.
The fourth book is about a visit to Lapland in winter and he meets Biggan the Moose Hound who lives there all year round. It is also about the Sami people who play such an important part in looking after the reindeer herds and they end up saving a baby reindeer.
The fifth book is about a trip to the Isle of Skye where my ancestors came from. Armadale Castle plays an important part as my grandfather worked there. Of course, Fred and a new friend, Alfie Eyebrows have a great adventure.
I now have a large selection of pictures of Fearless Fred.
All the books can also be obtained from Covent Garden, Foyles and Daunt Books.