WRITER Annie Manning has produced an anthology about her thoughts on bereavement, romance, friends and family to raise money for St Lukes' Hospice in Kenton.

Annie, 46, who was born and raised in Harrow and now lives in Hertfordshire, has been a writer for many years, and her work includes children's stories.

Her latest project which she worked on- and -off on for many years is called Beyond the Double Rainbow and appears under the name of Dolly Christmas, which was her grandmother's name.

Annie's mother, Dorothy, died of cancer three years ago after battling with the illness for over two years.

Dorothy spent her last few months at St Lukes' Hospice in Kenton Grange and she loved the gardens.

"My mum was so full of life." Annie said.

" She was like me, the cup was always half full and she thought that life was to short."

Annie found it difficult to come to terms with her mother's death while looking after her seven-year-old daughter Katie.

She said:" I decided that mum's funeral would be a celebration of her life and it was."

A year later, Annie decided to raise some money for St Lukes' Hospice and she organised a dinner party that raised over £1,000.

With her family she has continued to support and fund raise for St Luke's in appreciation of their work and dedication of the St Luke's team.

The following year she started her book.

Some of the poems were written in the first year when her mum died and they helped her to grieve.

She said:"I want people to read the book and reflect. I agree with crying and I think people need to cry."

Her mother was also a huge fan of Barry Cryer, a comedian. Annie contacted him and has used some of his material in her booklet.

Annie is set to continue helping the hospice and hopes to raise money but a different project each year.

Beyond the Double Rainbow is available at St Luke's shops priced £4.50. You can also send cheques for £5.50 (including postage and packaging) made payable to 'Credo Marketing and Publishing, The editor, 12 Rose Acre, Redborn, Herts, AL3 7JS.

St Luke's will receive a substantial donation for every book sold.