A Seaman's Book of Sea Stories Launches on the River Thames

Desmond Fforde, husband of best-selling writer Katie, has launched a new book of sea stories to raise funds and awareness for The Prostate Cancer Charity.

The launch which took place on board Desmond and Katie's house boat in Canary Wharf, London, was attended by a host of literary faces, including Desmond's cousin, Jasper Fforde, who raised a glass to the success of the book.

Desmond put together his favourite tales from the sea, by authors such as C S Forester, and created 'A Seaman's Book Of Sea Stories,' with all proceeds going to The Prostate Cancer Charity.

Desmond said: "When Katie was asked to contribute a short story for Ultimate Burlesque, a book raising money for breast cancer charities, I started to think I'd like to do something for male cancers. Prostate cancer is talked about much less than some of the other cancers which get a lot of publicity and so I am thrilled to be supporting The Prostate Cancer Charity."

Desmond's interest in the sea goes back to his days in the Merchant Navy.

He explains: "When I went to sea in the early 1960s Britain had the largest merchant fleet in the world; now it's largely non-existent. It's a lost world that needs recording and I hope this book will help do that."

The three Ffordes: Desmond, Katie and Jasper on board the boat.

The Prostate Cancer Charity's Chief Executive, John Neate, said:

"We are delighted that Desmond has so kindly decided to donate the profits of his book to The Prostate Cancer Charity. It promises to be a great read, with some of the most famous tales of the sea in history and I for one can't wait to dive in. I'm sure that the book will be a winner and we wish Desmond every success with it."

A Seaman's Book of Sea Stories, is available to purchase now. To order a copy, visit http://www.accentpress.co.uk