THE former headteacher of Austwick, Clapham and Horton-in-Ribblesdale CE Primary Schools has been very busy since retiring.

Brian Beresford, who lives in Skipton, is a familiar face in many schools leading song workshops in Craven and the north of England as well as publishing 250 pieces of music for schools via One More Time! Music Publishing, and writing a book of short stories and poems for adults: ‘Speak of Angels’.

For five years he also worked for University of Cumbria, supporting and assessing student teachers.

Brian started his teaching career at Carleton Primary School in the '70s before becoming deputy headteacher at St James’, Clitheroe. During his time there he also served as acting headteacher at Bolton-by-Bowland School. He then became headteacher at St Thomas’, Barrowford and spent 12 years as headteacher at Whalley Primary School before returning to the three Dales schools.

Brian has now written his first book for children aged 8 to 12. ‘The Midnight Grocer’

As a father, teacher and headteacher, Brian has always enjoyed storytelling. Whether writing stories or music for children, he aims to bring happiness to the reader, listener or performer. He hopes that his book is one that readers cannot bear to put down.

‘The Midnight Grocer’ tells the story of Chaaya and her football-mad brother, Jaden, who are totally unaware that an incredible experience is about to transform their entire summer holiday. An amazing 'golden' sound is heard at midnight, and a large shiny object suddenly fills their back yard. Difficult decisions must be made, and the family, their friends and neighbours are affected in the most unexpected ways. A mysterious stranger with a guinea pig comes into their lives, and Jaden's life changes for ever when he shows kindness to a homeless person. Children and adults face challenges together in a mystery, adventure, football and science fiction story.

‘The Midnight Grocer’ has a unique bonus feature where readers can listen to and sing a toe-tapping song called ‘Midnight Grocer, Who are You?’ which is available on YouTube. The song was written by Brian and is performed by him, his son Robert and daughter Anna.

The cover was illustrated by Alexandra Boswell, one of Brian’s colleagues at Horton-in-Ribblesdale School.

Published by i2i Publishing ‘The Midnight Grocer’ is available online from Waterstones, Foyles, Blackwells, Wordy, Awesome Books, bookshop.org, Alibris, WH Smith, Amazon and other book sellers including The Stripey Badger, Grassington.