A RENFREW pastor has become a published children’s author after being inspired by his grandson’s bedroom.

Steven Barr and his wife Dorothy, who have five children, are both pastors at Renfrew Christian Fellowship.

And it was shortly before the birth of their first grandchild Kian that Steven received the inspiration for what would become ‘A Rabbits’ Tale.’

He said: “My wife and I were decorating the nursery to make it ready for him and there were stencils on the walls of rabbits fishing for stars.

“I just knew there was a story in that, so I sat down and gradually, over the years, put it together.”

A Rabbits’ Tale tells the imaginative story, in poetic verse, of a society of wild rabbits and the preparations they make for their annual summer ball.

With full colour illustrations from professional artist Grace Sandford, the book is designed to be an ideal read for young children who enjoy bedtime stories.

Naturally, Steven’s grandson Kian, to whom the book is dedicated, was the first to hear it.

Steven, who lives in Glenburn, Paisley, and has been married for 27 years, said: “I read Kian the first draft of the book when he was about six months old, lying in my arms.

“He was also the first person to get a copy of the book when it was published.

“I look at it and I can’t believe I’m really holding it in my hands. It feels like it’s been a long journey and a lot of hard work to get to the point of holding a finished copy, so it kind of takes my breath away.

“I feel quite overwhelmed.”

Steven is a first-time author and put the book together himself by reaching out to the illustrator and copywriter online.

He said: “I had seen Grace’s work online and I sent a copy of the verses to her, asking if she would be interested in working on it.

“It was really very easy and just fell into place.

“I’ve been working with The Print Centre, in Paisley, to get the finished books made. They’re also working on producing a colouring-in book, using the same pictures, that should be available for Christmas.

“I’ve had a great reaction from the people who have had a chance to buy it and read it. It’s been wonderful.

“People have said it’s a lovely story to read to their children – and the kids absolutely love it.

“It’s continuing to gain new readers and new fans all the time and we’re looking to reach more.”

A Rabbits’ Tale has been praised in reviews for its “delightful” illustrations and “warm-hearted” text.

And the good news for those who have enjoyed his debut book is that Steven has already written a follow-up – Mr Pleasant the Pheasant.

It is currently being illustrated.

Starring one of the minor characters from the first book, it should be published early next year.

A Rabbits’ Tale is available to buy online at www.arabbitstale.com.