A former Witham teacher has successfully published his first novel, with an ecological thriller theme.


Peter Bennett, 58, of Birch Park in Colchester, was Head of Geography at Rickstones School for two years from 1989 until 1991 and has been teaching for 34 years.


He now works part time at Colchester High School for Girls and had the story in his head for years, which meant 'When the Tide Goes Out' took only six months to write.


Mr Bennett said: “It’s about a retired couple who move to the island of La Palma and the volcanic ridge begins to erupt. What should have been a relaxed retirement rapidly turns into a nightmare.


“They say there’s a book in everyone and to write about what you know. I’ve been working on another book for a while and there may even be a sequel to this one; never say never.”


The novel is available now from Amazon.