A local author is preparing to launch his new crime thriller series next week in the Maldon pub in which it is based.

Barrie Jaimeson, actor and artistic director of macTheatre in Maldon, will be reading extracts from Death at the Queen's Head at the pub from which it takes its name on Monday (13 December).

The book is Barrie's fifth thriller and the first in the Anne Edwards detective series he is working on, which are all set in the Maldon district.

Barrie said: "As an actor, I'm always attracted to a sense of drama and suspense and enjoy both reading and writing in this genre.

"My first trilogy of books led us to Maldon and the town is at the heart of every story.

"The character of Anne Edwards had been brewing for a while and, as the storyline grew, it offered the perfect opportunity to introduce her to the Maldon community.

"I'm really looking forward to bringing her to life in the setting that inspired the tale."

The story follows Alex Sowter, bar manager of the riverside pub, who is discovered horribly murdered on the terrace of the Queen's Head.

Newly-returned detective sergeant Anne Edwards must discover not only who killed him but why, including whether it has any connection to a death seven years before and if there will be more murders.

Assistant manager Charlotte Tibbs, who is forced to take over management of the pub, also becomes embroiled in the search for the truth, alongside new employee Ben Matthews.

Not a tale for the faint-hearted, as the story deepens, the drama gets darker and the evening promises to set the scene for a winter's night of intrigue.

Barrie settled in Maldon after working in theatre for many years around the country.

He formed macTheatre over 20 years ago to provide a platform for local music and theatre, and directed Shakespeare in the Park for 10 years at the Prom.

He will be at the Queen's Head, on Hythe Quay in Maldon, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Monday 13 December to launch the book.

The event is free to attend and there will be signed copies of the novel available to purchase on the night.

Numbers are limited as macTheatre is working to a reduced capacity audience, so organisers have advised those interested to come along in good time to ensure a seat.