A KEMPSEY dog breeder and author has written her third book about bearded collies, which went on sale last month.

Suzanne Moorhouse, from Kerswell Green, wrote The Adventures of Raisa after witnessing a puppy growing up and deciding that the dog's antics would make an excellent children's book.

The tale is a true story based on the experiences of Raisa the puppy, when her brothers and sisters leave their first home and she remains behind to join a family of older dogs.

Nick Upton, a commercial artist from Fernhill Heath, near Worcester, painted the colourful scenes that illustrate the puppy's adventures.

Ms Moorhouse has already had success as an author. A textbook she wrote about bearded collies was published in 1990.

"I enjoyed doing it so much that I was inspired to continue writing," she said.

Her next book Little Dog Lost was about her puppy, Honey, who got lost on the Malvern Hills for five months before eventually returning home. It was recently been reprinted and is selling well.

Next year, Ms Moorhouse celebrates 50 years of breeding bearded collies. She shows her dogs at events all over the country and they have won numerous prizes at Crufts. Currently she owns seven beardies and breeds a litter of puppies a year. However, she has found time to write two sequels to The Adventures of Raisa, which cover the puppy growing up and being trained.

"I'm hoping to turn it into a series," she said.

The book is popular with both children and parents and emphasises the importance of good manners and respecting elders.

Ms Moorhouse said had given the book to all of my nieces and nephews as Christmas presents.

Anyone who would like to purchase the book, which is priced at £7.50, should telephone Ms Moorhouse, at Willowmead Publications, on 01905 820327.