Heronsburgh 1965, written by Martin Russell, will be launched at Jean’s Bothy on August 23 at 2pm.

The event will be introduced by Graham Morgan, a respected mental health advocate and writer.

Tickets are free to book at eventbrite.co.uk.

Mr Russell said: “It was about the mild-mannered shopkeepers of the town in the 1960s.

“The book takes that a stage further as a work of fiction based on my memory of the town I grew up in.

“I hope it will appeal to the folk of the town today.”

Although entirely fictional, the novella is rooted in the humour, warmth, and quirks of small-town life.

Martin said: “The characters are imaginary, although some were inspired by actual people.

“The events are purely fictional.

“The ultimate theme is redemption – how people can change for the better, forgive others, and redeem themselves.”

Launching the book at Jean’s Bothy holds personal significance for Martin.

He said: “I’m delighted to be launching my wee book at Jean’s Bothy as I am diagnosed with bipolar disorder, as was my late mother.

“There is, I hope, an inspiring mental health storyline running the length of the book.”

The cover also carries a story.

He said: “I got permission from the Science Museum in London to adapt a 1941 LNER poster by Frank H.

“Mason showing the town from the Clyde.

“It’s very recognisable, but not quite real – just like the book.”

The novella features a fictional version of the Helensburgh Advertiser, renamed The Heronsburgh Enquirer.