A FORMER Airedale doctor has released her debut novel - and will donate 20 per cent of her first-year royalties to charity.

Dr Rachael Gray wrote A Little Bird Told Me in 2021 and 2021, while heading up the department of clinical health psychology at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

The cosy crime murder mystery was released on Thursday, September 5.

Dr Gray said: "Working through the COVID-19 pandemic in a healthcare setting resulted in me seeking a creative outlet.

"With all of the pressures we were under and experiences we went through, it really helped me to turn my hand to my debut novel.

"With this novel I want to pay tribute to my fantastic team, colleagues, and patients; it was a privilege to work with you all through such a challenging period in time."

Jodie Hearnshaw, charity manager, added: "We wish Rachael all the success with her debut novel, it’s a perfect read for this time of year."

The book is available from independent bookshops including The Stripey Badger in Grassington and Limestone Books in Settle, as well as on Amazon.

20 per cent of the royalties from the book's first year of sales will be donated to Airedale Hospital & Community Charity (AHCC).