Devon author surprised by recent success of his two books

Derek Sturch, surprised by the “overwhelming” positive response to his two books – especially "A squatter’s write" - has said he has just ordered the second hundred copies to be printed.

He said: “There has been a lot of interest for my books. Hopefully they will continue on their upward trajectory.”

Tim Prichard who owns Archway Bookshop said: “The book is doing really well. We have received orders from all over the country.”

Derek Sturch's books 'A squatter's write' and 'Brekshhit' in Archway Bookshop, Axminster (Image: Molly Kirk) As well as Archway Bookshop in Axminster, Paragon Bookshop in Sidmouth are also in stock of the books.

"A squatter’s write", details not only Derek’s personal history growing up as a squatter in post-war Axminster but also the history of the growth and development of Milwey Rise.

The book provides an insider’s perspective of the history of Axminster and what it was like for Derek to live in the abandoned 315th US Army Station Hospital with his family – known by outsiders as “the camp.”

Through a range of verse, prose and diary entries, Derek shares the story of how his family helped lay the foundations and built a new life in post-war Axminster.

He said: "I cover this from my own perspective. I can still remember standing outside the camp, looking at my sister and wondering what was going on.

"We were surrounded by people in similar circumstances and right from the start there seemed to be that spirit of community - it became a self-contained unit."

"Brekshhit" on the other hand is all about Derek’s own thoughts and feelings of the “shortcomings” of the Brexit decisions, backed by his own independent research on the impact the decision has had over the nation.

Once again, this book is also written through a range of poetry, verse and letters – providing a coherent mix-media style that helps readers follow the Brexit timeline.

He said: " The Brexshhit one, that was the one I really enjoyed writing.

“It's about time we put a shh in Brexit.

“I couldn’t believe that we actually voted for it. All I did was follow the way it went, and I think it just shows just what a complete mess they made of it.”

In terms of future plans, Derek does not intend to sit around and soak up his new-found success as an author, he says he will continue to write poetry, as he always has, and maybe even publish his own collection of sonnets.