AN amateur author from Dunster has been given a Millennium Award from mental health charity Mencap in recognition of his hard work and dedication.

Derryck Griffiths, aged 49, has overcome learning difficulties to put together a book about local churches.

Simply called 'Churches', the book includes photographs taken by Derryck and stresses the importance of churches as places of worship.

Derryck, a member of Alcombe Methodist Church, travelled to the Hilton Hotel, in Birmingham, to collect his award.

The book was launched earlier this month at Minehead's Seahorse Centre for people with learning difficulties.

Photo: Steve Guscott.