WEST Dorset author Louise Hodgson has been delving into some more of the hidden gems of Dorset for her second book.

In here first book Secret Places of West Dorset, published by Dorset book specialists Roving Press in 2011, Louise revealed some extraordinarily special and untouched parts of Dorset.

She's been busy since then finding more.

After more than two years’ research, she has produced a successor to her first book More Secret Places of West Dorset.

Louise has made a study of west Dorset her priority and shares her discoveries, including colour photographs and a selection of her artwork, it demonstrates just how much there is to be found in this part of the county.

Louise, from Corscombe, goes off the beaten track to discover history, folklore, curiosities and legends, as well as ancient trackways, enigmatic stones and holy wells.

She said: ‘"I’ve always felt there was more to discover; more mysterious, atmospheric and provocative places that stimulate our powers of imagination and heighten our ability to empathise with the natural landscape.

"The drive to explore is within most us to varying degrees, and west Dorset is one of those places where exploration can easily lead to adventures beyond the usual and ordinary."

As part of ‘Bridport Christmas Cheer’ late-night shopping on Wednesday December 9, Louise will be in Waterstones from 5.30 pm, personally signing copies of her books as presents for Christmas.

Books will also be available in other local outlets and direct from the publisher (www.rovingpress.co.uk, tel 01300 321531), with free delivery in time for Christmas.

Louise has spent most of her life in the West Country and has expanded her knowledge of the different aspects of the landscape from her experience of running Secret Landscape Tours.

She added: "West Dorset offers huge rewards to those who care to explore beyond the well-known attractions."