LOCAL author John Taylor will read from an anthology of short stories, which will raise money for a homeless charity.

The reading from Stories for Homes will take place in Andover Library, in the Chantry Centre, on Wednesday, 18 December at 2pm.

His story is just one of 63 in the 526-page paperback, with every penny raised going to Shelter.

The mix of poignant and humorous tales, all loosely based around the subject of home, was the brainchild of writers Sally Swingewood and Debi Alper.

It was during Sally’s housewarming party that Debi heard of Sally’s journey to an acceptable home for her and her three children, which began with a rented flat with water pouring in through leaks never fixed by the landlord. Debi also had her own story to tell about losing her home when seven months pregnant, and wanted to get involved.

An appeal for submissions was launched and after just three months Sally and Debi had chosen 63 stories from known and emerging writers.

Debi said: “It was a huge success story. I’ve edited and contributed to other anthologies but never have I come across such an incredibly high standard.

“None of this would have been possible without the generosity of an army of volunteers who helped with editing, proof reading, cover design, e-conversion, publicity etc.”

The Stories for Homes anthology sold in aid of Shelter is available through Amazon, priced £14.99 for the paperback and £4.99 for the eBook.