A MAGISTRATE with a lifelong love of writing is hoping her first children’s book will help youngsters to understand the real meaning of Christmas.

Pat Wilson, from Darlington, decided to write a light-hearted version of the nativity story after being asked by her son, David, who was a rector of a church in Chester.

The book, named Derek the Donkey, tells the story of the nativity through the eyes of the donkey who carried Mary, and his friends, Reuben and Rachel the rats.

Mrs Wilson, who has been a magistrate in Darlington and Newton Aycliffe for 25 years, said: “This is a light-hearted book with humour which I hope parents will find easier to tell their children the true story of Christmas rather than reading it straight from Genesis.

“I could not stop at the nativity and so I went on to tell the story of the time when Jesus was lost in the temple, as well as his final journey.”

The book, published by United PC, is also illustrated by Darlington man, Billy Leaf, who used to buy his sweets from Mrs Wilson’s shop in Salters Avenue when he was a youngster.

“I didn’t self-publish so when they said to me your book has been published I was over the moon – it is such a wonderful feeling,” said the 69-year-old.

“I hope the book helps children to see the real meaning of Christmas.”

Derek the Donkey is available from Amazon.co.uk