Former Birmingham Post business editor John Duckers now freelances in PR and the media and has more recently branched out into writing for youngsters.

The Crazy Adventures of the Silly Six follows on from The Amazing Adventures of the Silly Six and features the mischief and antics of friends Angus McMonty, a snake who is really a softie, Felicity, the very upmarket dog, Suzi, the almost sensible cat, Percy, the timid parrot, Nasher, the fearless hamster, and slightly quirky Mole.

Set in Scotland, where John used to work, the Silly Six’s earlier adventures ranged from meeting up with an escaped kangaroo from the local zoo to travelling to Inverness in search of the Loch Ness monster. In the new series of stories they look to blast off into space and attempt to launch a punk band.

It is aimed at a wide audience of youngsters, primarily in the 6-12 age range.

His first book raised £2,000 for a local leukaemia charity; this one benefits Performances Birmingham Limited, the registered charity that manages Birmingham Town Hall Symphony Hall, internationally recognised for its unrivalled quality of performances, passion for music education, and artistic ambition. As part of efforts to spread a love of the arts it provides opportunities for thousands of children to experience the world of music. For every copy of the book sold, a significant donation will be made by the author to support the charity’s work.

The book has been sponsored by Investec Wealth & Investment, one of the UK’s leading investment management companies. Retailing at £7.99, plus £3.50 recorded delivery postage and packing per copy if mailed out in the UK, it can be purchased from the Symphony Hall Gift Shop in the International Convention Centre mall, Tel: 0121 644 5193 or email [email protected].

John, a member of Birmingham Press Club, said: “The initial book went well, selling around 650 copies, which I am told is good for a first time author who does not enjoy the profile of being a TV/film/media personality. The feedback from children was brilliant – they loved it. The hard part is persuading parents to reach for their wallets and purses! It can still be ordered via Amazon, WHSmith, Waterstones and other outlets.

“The Crazy Adventures of the Silly Six is the sequel which is equally fun and whacky. It is about putting joy and laughter into youngsters’ lives while giving something back in the name of charity. I particularly want to thank Investec for their generous backing and Town Hall Symphony Hall for their commitment and enthusiasm.”

Karen Daw, head of development for Town Hall Symphony Hall, added: “We are delighted that John has generously decided to support Town Hall Symphony Hall by donating some of the proceeds raised from the sale of The Crazy Adventures of the Silly Six. It is support like John’s that allows us to continue delivering our essential and extensive work in the community. We are immensely grateful to John and everyone that purchases a copy of this wonderful book.”