A WEST Kilbride woman who penned a chapter in a number one selling Christmas book has told of the inspiring back story behind her work.

Rebecca Welsh, 43, was one of 24 authors to have a story included in the festive novel 'The Enchanted Christmas Treasury'.

The book aimed to capture stories for children with the magic of Christmas. The collection of short tales was the cumulative work of authors from several nationalities who applied to be involved by submitted a sample of their writing plus their intended storyline.

Rebecca was duly selected, and her chapter included in the book, which became a number one seller one Amazon, on the same day it was released, in the 'children's books on holidays and celebrations around the world' category.

After the book's official launch part this month, we had the chance to catch up with Rebecca, and find out all about her involvement in this book - which was the second time she had produced published work.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Rebecca at the book launch party.

She explained how she wrote the chapter drawing inspiration from her own life, in particular from her role coaching at TASS Thistle in the Three Towns.

Rebecca said: "I was diagnosed ADHD as an adult and sports has played a huge role in the quality of my life, and so I feel it is important to me to pass this on to parents of ADHD children. 

"I personally always make sure children feel welcome at TASS Thistle, as this may be where they thrive in their life too.

"My story (in the book) is about a girl who thinks she gets everything wrong, but with the magic of Christmas and a visit from a special fairy, she realises that she is loved just the way she is. The girl in the story is called Astrid and she has ADHD.

"It can be tough for children with ADHD, and it’s important that they can see themselves in stories where they may not usually be represented.

"I’m very proud to be part of this inclusive book, featuring all different children."

Rebecca added that she was also able to add a little bit extra TASS flair in her chapter which including stunning illustrations of players wearing kits that may look quite familiar.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Illustrations from her chapter.

She continued: "I am a football coach with TASS Thistle FC, and I wanted to bring the team spirit to the book, and girls football features prominently in my chapter, including all the beautiful illustrations.

"I wanted to show the importance of football as somewhere children can learn and feel part of, away from school, particularly if they haven’t had a good day there.

"They can come to football and have fun through exercise and making new friends, with the support of their coaches."

While Rebecca was stunned at just how popular the book became, though was glad to see her story with such an important message could be spread so widely.

She added: "On the day of its release, the Book went to number one as an Amazon best seller, which was an amazing reception for the book.

"My chapter has resonated with a lot of parents getting in touch with me thanking me for telling this story. 

"Children with ADHD can feel isolated and so feeling that they are loved just as they are is an important message.

"Moving about and being active can be a big part of ADHD, so showing football as one of the ways to support this has also been well received.

"There has been a lot of positive comments about showing girls football, as a growing sport.

"There are lots of girls playing football and I would encourage anyone to get in touch if their daughter would like to give it a go.

"The girls I coach at football loved seeing the illustrations and them in their football strips. They were so excited and that’s what it’s all about!"

Rebecca was glad to be able to enjoy the success of the book a bit closer to home too.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Rebecca at St Mary's Primary School in Largs.

Earlier this month she popped along to St Mary's Primary School in Largs to read her chapter to students at the school.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Rebecca at St Mary's Primary School in Largs.

While her four children - Joselyn, Rosalind,  James, and Victoria - were able to join her at the book's launch party.

Rebecca said: " It was a special event, with Santa, the fairy godmother and ballerinas adding to the the Christmas magic - it was very special to share this with them.

"They all helped come up with the characters names and so they were a great help and inspiration for the story!"

For more information on 'The Enchanted Christmas Treasury - the book is available on Amazon as a paperback, hardcover or on Kindle.