A retired teacher has finally fulfilled his life-long dream of becoming a published author.

Stephen Hilliam, 61, from West Ewell, is celebrating after his first book Lisa the Moaner was accepted by Onwards and Upwards Publishers.

Mr Hilliam said: "I am delighted that my first children's book, Lisa the Moaner, has been published as it is the fulfilment of a dream that I've had since childhood.

"It was reading C.S. Lewis' The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe when I was 10 years old that inspired me as it is such a magical book."

While reading about the fantasy world of Narnia, with talking animals and mythical beasts, Mr Hilliam vowed to write a novel of his own one day.

But a teaching career, family commitments and life in general seemed to get in the way and took time away from pursuing his dream.

Mr Hilliam said: "I taught at Gorringe Park in Mitcham, which was first a middle school then a primary school, for more than 30 years.

"As a class teacher I taught all subjects except French and music. I particularly loved teaching English and art.

"In addition I wrote the staff Christmas pantomimes which were performed to the children at the end of the Autumn term each year."

Lisa the Moaner costs £6.99 from Amazon and is also available in bookshops.