A HALESOWEN man has written a book of poetry to help raise funds for a borough hospice.

Dave Macklin's work 'Painting With Words' contains more than 100 poems and has already raised £1,000 for Mary Stevens Hospice, Hagley Road, Oldswinford.

His poems take inspiration from his love of the wildlife, nature and landscapes around Halesowen, the Black Country and north Worcestershire.

Dave said: "I have always made a point of supporting local charities but the one which has really made an impact on me and on our community is the Mary Stevens Hospice.

"It provides an essential end-of-life service of palliative care to members of our community - not only is quality care provided to patients, but support is also given to family and friends by a team of skilled and dedicated professionals.

"In addition, a huge contribution is made by the tireless work of volunteers - I could not think of a more deserving charity than our hospice.

"I was born and educated in Halesowen and have lived in this area of variety and diversity all of my life.

"Poetry is important to me because it is a vehicle to express ideas and emotions and I write and read poems almost every day.

"I feel connected to my locality and am proud to be a Black Countryman bred and born in Yeltz."

Dave's book is priced £10 and available by emailing him at davidmacklin7@gmail.com or calling him on 07932 555964.

It is also available from www.etsy.com/uk by searching Poetryby David.