ENGLISH literature graduate Ollie Hayes is putting his degree to good use by writing - comics.

The former Colyton Grammar School pupil studied art and design there before getting his degree from Sheffield University.

He carried on drawing while studying and eventually he's combined the two with something he's always loved reading and that's comics.

In his third year he started writing a weekly comic strip he put online about English students.

That had to go by the wayside when he had to find a 'real' job, he says.

But his heart wasn't in it so he just decided to do what he loves and that's led him to his latest venture LymeZone - a comic based around his home town.

He said: "Lyme is a town I know very well and I like a lot and I thought I could do something that showcased what I loved about it.

"It was a passion project, a labour of love it and my first real attempt at trying to do something financially viable."

His first edition came out at the end of last year and was well received,

He added: "People liked that it wasn't cynical, it was just a well made, well meaning piece of art from one person who really loves the town and who cares about the product more than making money - although I do need to make a living I care ultimately about making comics."

He is aiming at the eight to 12 age group but hopes it will appeal to anyone.

"I tried to make the writing good and not to talk down to children. I still love reading all kinds of comics and think they really appeal to anyone."

The first edition was eight pages in full colour for £1 but as he's hoping to keep adverts out of the work he's launching an appeal for the summer edition which he is hoping to be 16 pages.

He said: "I have a Kickstarter campaign where you can pledge money in advance.

"The more you give, the better rewards you receive, including bonus comics, signed prints, original artwork, and yes - the opportunity to appear as a character in the new issue.

"You can take a look at LymeZone’s campaign page at www.kickstarter.com/projects/575132256/lymezone-issue-2, or by searching for ‘LymeZone Kickstarter’

He said: "The fact I can't do it with no money up front any more.

Based on his work he has some other art and design projects possibly in the pipeline - such as children's workshops at the Seaton Jurassic Centre and a collaboration with the The Pilot Boat.

If you want to see the first issue it is available from The Galley Café, The Pilot Boat Inn, Uplyme Stores, Primary Colours, Aroma Café or the Lyme Fossil Shop.