Poetry helped Paul through tough times
A former Shropshire man who was once a virtual prisoner in his own house through severe social anxiety has found release through writing humorous poetry for children.
And following a long recovery Paul Minton's rhymes have been published in a new book called "Miss Winter's Demise and Other Crimes against Poetry."
Paul hails originally from Wellington, where he attended Orleton Park School and New College.
"Six years ago, my life was a battle. After a series of personal setbacks, I developed severe social anxiety, which resulted in me being confined to my house, unable to interact with family and friends," says Paul.
"During this time I found comfort in writing humorous verse for children."
Paul, who lives now in Newport in Wales, says his poems have been broadcast as far afield as Australia and have also been performed at the all-Wales comic verse competition.
"Writing lifted my spirits when life was at its most challenging. I would love to think that the book can act as a beacon of hope for people whose lives have been affected by mental health issues. I hope it demonstrates that a lot of humour can still be found even while in the darkest of places."
The book is aimed at children aged nine to 12 years, but he says it can also be enjoyed by adults.
