Moray canine author Alfie writes debut book (with a little help from Elizabeth)
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Moray is home to Scotland's best and newest canine author.
Nearing his 12th birthday Alfie has left it until relatively late in life to publish his first book.
However the general reaction to 'Diary of a Doric Dug During Coronavirus' shows he possesses a rare literary talent for a labrador.
Alfie was helped in his efforts by Elizabeth McAlpine who he lives with in Garmouth.
Elizabeth said: "I'm so proud of Alfie.
"He started writing a diary shortly after lockdown began in March featuring his daily exploits, as well as memories from his younger days.
"We began posting it onto the Oot and Aboot Garmouth & Kingston page on Facebook and it became popular.
"Alfie is a kind and generous dog who always sees the good in the world as well as in others.
"I think people responded to that and they began to follow and look forward to his adventures.
"Then some of my friends and other people in the village suggested I should put the entries together and get it published."
Making appearances within the pages of 'Diary of a Doric Dug During Coronavirus' are several other dogs who live in Garmouth.
Also featured is Elizabeth's cat Clover, who Alfie grudgingly but patiently refers to as The Cat I Have To Put Up With.
Elizabeth, a retired nurse, said: "When I was little my mum, Mary, used to write and read me stories about my teddy bears, which I loved.
"I've also really enjoyed reading all my life.
"However I never thought I would be involved in writing a book.
"It would never have occurred to me unless other people had suggested it first.
"Anyway, I have them to thank because it's been a lot of fun."
Elizabeth, who's a fine arts graduate, did all the illustrations for 'Diary of a Doric Dug During Coronavirus'
And spurred on by Alfie's trailblazing endeavours, she is now writing a book of her own.
Called 'A Tale of Cowpdoon Brae', it features a town in the North East where only the animals speak.
'Diary of a Doric Dug During Coronavirus' is available from Yeadon's in Elgin, The Twisted Thistle in Fochabers, Pozzi's in Buckie and the Speyside Coffee Roasting Company café at Grampian Furnishings.
