FORMER Clarendon headteacher Colin Kay is embarking on a new venture with the launch of his first novel, Fateful Gift.

Mr Kay, who was head of the then Clarendon College from 1996 to 2011, launched his book at Trowbridge Town Hall.

The novel, which he describes as a story of murder, love and betrayal set in the borderland where the psychological and paranormal meet, is available on Kindle and local bookshops.

Mr Kay, who lives in Bradford on Avon, said: “I’ve always wanted to write and did so when I was younger.

"I made a promise to myself that when I retired from headship and had more time I would have a go at it.

“I started writing this in 2011 and then I left it for a while before coming back and finishing it.

"I really enjoy writing and I am really pleased to have been able to finish a book and get it published.”