This morning (February 15) Exmouth based author Debra Wellington performed a reading of her debut book, The Animal Says, to local children and parents.

Debra published the book herself, and it is now available on Amazon and from her website. It is also available in local shops, for example The Eco Baby in Ottery St. Mary.

Debra told Nub News: "I was happy to read my book to the children at The Coffee Bank this morning. They all sat around on the cushions listening and joining in with the animal sounds.

"One little girl chose the little bird and when I asked her why she liked that one the best, she replied "Because it's pink!": a very good reason to like it, I thought!

"Louise [one of the owners of The Coffee Bank] has asked me to come back again and I would be happy to do so. It's a lovely relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a cuppa with your friends and little ones!"

Sophie Taylor, a mum of two, attended the event with her daughter Elsie, aged four. Sophie and Elsie had travelled from Exeter to Ottery to listen to the reading.

Sophie told Nub News: "It was really lovely. My sister had already bought Elsie the book and so she already knew the stories and the sounds. Elsie really enjoyed it!"

The Animal Says is available here