A CHARITABLE ex-policeman is celebrating the release of his latest publication which aims to support the work of national charity.
John Mason, who has lived in Coventry all of his life, has been working on his latest book ‘Signposts’ for seven years – and the copy features a host of the author’s thought-provoking poems.
The 76-year-old has a specific passion for the British countryside and will be donating all profits from the book to the Alzheimer’s Society – who provide leading UK care and research for people with the disease.
Published by Cannon Poets Publishing, John – who is a graduate of Warwick University – released the book following previous support of the Alzheimer’s Society in the shape of long distance walks and journeys across North America.
The former Woodland City Councillor said he started writing poetry in his early 20s.
He added: “As I have got older I have felt the need to explore the world, my experiences and my imagination through poetry.
“I like getting the poems down on the page, seeing the end product and also recognising when people have a shared experience.
“The mental exercise and being able to live in your own mind is what I enjoy about writing.”
Since its release, the book has already received praise from former Birmingham poets Adrian Blackledge and Eleanor Nesbitt – as well as Professor Emeritus of Warwick University.
John will be pledging further support to the Alzheimer’s Society at the charity’s upcoming Dementia Friendly Carol Concert in Coventry’s Holy Trinity Church on Thursday (December 8).
Carolyn McDonald, community fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society, said: “It’s wonderful to see John’s poems in print and to see him tackle the topic of dementia in such a creative way.
“We’re really grateful to him for donating all the profits of his new book to Alzheimer’s Society.
“All monies raised will support people with dementia through valuable services along with important research into the condition.”
Copies of John’s book can be ordered from www.cannonpoets.org.uk and cost £7.
Visit www.alzheimers.org.uk for further information about dementia and the Alzheimer’s Society.
