Murder, mystery and suspense in Burnley

A Burnley author has opened a new chapter on his literary career with the publication of his new book.

Retired teacher Andrew Hamling settled in Burnley some years ago after spending several years working in Zimbabwe, Argentina and South Africa.

His new novel “A Family Affair: A Novel of Intrigue and Murder in Pendle Witch Country” is the second to feature Andrew’s fictional detective Bethany Gallagher.

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Andrew (65) said: “The novel is set in and around Burnley (Gallagher, having relocated from South Africa, for reasons explained in the novel, is now living in a typical two up, two down Burnley terraced house).

“It has many easily recognisable locations within Burnley as well as scenes in Brierfield, Nelson, Worsthorne, Clitheroe and Blackburn - and one or two other places get a mention along the way.

“It’s a straightforward, traditional murder mystery written with, I hope a lightness of touch and a modicum of humour.”

Andrew, who was born and brought up in Sussex, studied geography at Rolle College of Education in Devon and subsequently completed an Open University degree in psychology.

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He returned from South Africa in 2011 and settled in Burnley, where he devoted myself to writing.

Andrew added: “I published the first Bethany Gallagher novel “A Matter of Conscience” in 2013, followed by a volume of poetry later that year.

“When I’m not writing I enjoy walking, travel and am a keen philatelist. I play bridge at Brierfield Bridge Club and play bowls for Queensgate Bowling Club.”