FORMER teacher Ann Ashley has brought the writings of distinguished Herefordian Alfred Watkins to life for a new generation.

Her book, The Dodman Quest, explores Watkins' theory on ley lines through a detective story involving two young enthusiasts.

David and Gill set out to prove the existence of ley lines using an OSM, a pencil and a ruler - first in Herefordshire and then further afield.

They attempt to follow the trail of the Dodman, Watkins' name for the prehistoric surveyor, making discoveries and having fun at the same time.

Watkins theory of ley line has been eagerly embraced by some amateurs but disparaged by some accredited archaeologists.

Ann attended Hereford High School for Girls and taught French at Leominster Grammar School before moving away to teach.

She moved back to the county 12 years ago to pursue an ideal with husband Derek.

With grants from the Forestry Commission they have planted over 6,000 trees - mostly local species - in order to redress some of the damage done to the Amazon rainforest.

Although kept busy on their 26-acre smallholding at Hatfield, near Leominster, Ann has enjoyed finding time to write her first novel.

"It was something that was simmering in my mind and the tree project was nearing an end," she said.

Ann came across Watkins' book, The Old Straight Track, at a second-hand bookshop in Hay-on-Wye several years ago when the title was out of print.

Her interest in languages and the fact that he was local inspired her to think it would make a good plot.

"I hope it's a fun approach to a serious subject," she said.

The Dodman Quest is available from local TICs and libraries as well as independent bookshops in Leominster, Ledbury, Ludlow and Tenbury Wells, priced £5.99.