Joyce's book debut success story THE debut book by St Helens authoress Joyce Owen has proved a runaway success. And it has also achieved something of a global spread with a copy now lodged with a libary in Georgia and others in the possession of Joyce's friends and former colleagues living as far apart as Australia and Nigeria.

A retired Parr teacher and former hospital sister, Joyce was persuaded by hubby Tom to pen her fascinating recollections from her time in the nursing profession.

And I'm happy to report that this 'Healing Highways' publication has proved a complete sell-out. Every copy was snapped up within weeks.

Full of lively anecdotes, much of the action revolves around St Helens Hospital which remains deep in Joyce's affection.

Those who missed out when the book went on sale locally still have a chance to share in her recollections - which range from the poignant through to the bittersweet and the highly amusing. There are copies in each of the 11 libraries dotted around the St Helens borough.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.