THE true story of a child who was severely scalded in a nursery was the inspiration for a book illustrated by a Kidderminster artist.

Karen Lawrence, of Hurcott Road, has written under the name, Karen Hiscock, to illustrate a children's book highlighting the dangers of scalding by hot drinks.

Mrs Lawrence, who works as a freelance author and illustrator, is also a part-time graphics officer for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.

She said: "I was approached by a colleague from Hampshire Fire and Rescue who had a story that they wanted transforming into a children's book, highlighting the dangers of scalding from hot drinks.

"Donna Smith and her co-author, Liz Turnbull, of The Children's Fire and Burns Trust, commissioned me to design and illustrate Lizzie's Accident which sensitively tells the true story of three-year-old Lizzie Archer, who was badly scalded by a hot drink while at nursery in Kent."

Lizzie Archer, of Ashford, was only 13 months old when the incident happened.

A tray of tea and coffee fell on the youngster at a mother and toddler group, leaving her with serious scald marks to the chest.

Mrs Lawrence, who has two young children of her own, added: "The book is aimed at parents and carers to read with nursery and reception age children and hopes to bring greater awareness of the dangers that a simple cup of tea could pose to small children."

The book is being sold on a non-profit making basis, with proceeds going to the Children's Fire and Burns Trust. West Midlands Ambulance Service has already expressed an interest in the book.

Alec Mackie, press officer for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said it would use the book in its community fire safety work to highlight dangers to people in schools, mother and toddler groups and nurseries.

He added: "We are very proud of the book which Karen has helped to produce.

"Nasty injuries can be sustained as a result of scalding and we welcome anything that will help highlight the dangers and prevent incidents such as these from happening."

To buy a copy, e-mail Hiscocklawrence@hotmail.com or click on to www.childrens

fireandburnstrust.co.uk