Yesterday evening I had been invited to give my talk, 'GP to Author,' to the Ainderby Steeple and District branch of the Women's Institute. It was a bitterly cold night but fortunately there was central heating in the old Methodist chapel where they meet.

What a wonderfully welcoming and warm group of ladies! Instantly I felt at ease, which was great as I still get rather nervous about these speaking engagements ( I had been unable to eat any tea!)

My talk seemed well received and I enjoyed telling them of my stories from my medical career and then how I became an author. Copies of my novels were for sale and 25% from each sale is going to Breast Cancer Research Foundation - those of you who read my blogs will understand why. I raised £40 (this includes the small fee I got for attending) and this was an excellent result.

Another talk is booked, this time in Harrogate for next month. Watch this space!