A former Royal Navy sailor has published his first novel.

The book by Robin Hughes. of Deal, is an outer space adventure called Archie Wilde and the Curse of Baldizar.

It is the first of a trilogy of fantasies involving this character and Mr Hughes is already writing the second instalment.

He said: "This book was written purely as good old-fashioned entertainment.

" In this fast-paced world where children, and especially young adults, are funnelled into a high-pressure learning life by both school and media, I see my book as a lifeboat.

"Adventure novels have historically had a crossover appeal and I think I’ve created a story suitable for all ages."

Mr Hughes is now married with children and is a grandfather.

He joined the Royal Navy at 16 in 1974 and was there until 1980. He rejoined for a second stint from 1983 to 1987.

He trained as an able seaman,and specialised in areas such as computer radar, navigation and diving.

Mr Hughes worked on this first volume over eight years and finished it while working full-time as an onboard customer service agent for Eurotunnel.

He retires next March, giving him more time to finish the trilogy.

Archie Wilde and the Curse of Baldizar by Robin Hughes (recommended retail price £9.99) is published by The Conrad Press and can be ordered from bookshops.