SPOTLIGHT’S crime correspondent Simon Hall visited Ottery St Mary Library last week. The BBC journalist and author of ‘The TV Detective’ novels was there as part of National Crime Writing Week. His books, all set in Devon, feature a TV reporter and Detective Inspector who work together to solve a series of extraordinary crimes.

Librarian Carol Pentecost said the evening had been a success, despite drawing a smaller crowd than anticipated due to the nice weather. “Simon was very interesting. He gave a general introduction to his writing and his books for those who might not know the series and how he came about writing it,” she said.

“We were really pleased to get a recognisable name come along, as we’re only a small library. It draws people in. We try to organise events throughout the year, so people should keep an eye out.”