SHOPPERS in Penarth witnessed the launch of a very different kind of lifeboat in the town centre on the weekend.

For this colourful and playful vessel was not launched into the sea, but into the imaginations of children of all ages.

Copies of Larry the Lifeboat and Friends - a collection of short stories documenting the adventures of a bright orange inflatable dinghy - were on offer outside the Windsor Bookshop on Saturday.

Larry the Lifeboat was written by mum-of-two Tina Leonard.

Tina created Larry after realising that while there is Postman Pat, Fireman Sam and Bob the Builder, there was no lifeboat character.

Tina's idea for her character grew over several months, and her book was printed in December. The book was illustrated by Anne Marie Gerrard of Barry.

Tina said on Saturday: "I can't believe this has really happened!

"It's taken so long to get the book together, but I'm really pleased with it.

"I'm off to New Zealand for a month and I'm taking my pad with me and hope to get inspired for more stories."

Tina said that she is currently trying to contact production companies to get Larry adapted as a television character.

"I'd love to get him on Cbeebies," she said.

"That would be my ultimate dream."

Lorraine Barrett, Assembly Member for Penarth and Cardiff South, visited Tina's stall on Saturday.

After buying a book for her grandchild, she said: "We have so much talent here in Penarth - and given that the Penarth lifeboat is so important to the town and to this area, I think Tina has hit on something that could really take off.

"I think this book will appeal to many, many people in the town and beyond. These are short stories that will keep the attention of little ones.

"I really do congratulate Tina and Anne Marie."

Larry the Lifeboat is available from www.larrythelifeboat.co.uk or from the Windsor Bookshop on Windsor Road, Penarth.