FANS of Constable Mavis Upton came from as far afield as Hull and Scotland to meet her creator Gina Kirkham.

The former Hoylake police officer took to writing novels when she retired from the Merseyside Force in 2016.

A hit blog was turned into a popular paperback debut and a writing career started.

Now her readership exceeds 15,000 across the country.

Gina, who lives in Meols with husband John, now has three novels to her name: Handcuffs, Truncheons and a Polyster Thong which was followed by Whiskey, Tango, Foxtrot and now the third - Blues, Twos and Baby Shoes.

Gina, who has recently recovered from a spine operation, was interviewed by Desperate Scousewives actress actress Lynn Fitzgerald.

The author revealed that she may now take a break from the much-loved Upton comic chronicles.

Gina told the Globe: "I enjoy talking at many Women's Institute meetings.

"The people I have met there on the circuit have inspired me with plenty of other stories to tell."

As well as her many fans at her third successive signing session at Waterstones in Liverpool One, Gina welcomed her brother who had travelled from Oxford to see her latest success unveiled.

To make sure it was a party atmosphere.

Gina brought in some theatrical friends including Lillian Chapman as Agatha and Shaun McKenna as Beatrice.

Added Gina: "I doubled up on the Prosecco and doughnuts.

"I want to thank everyone for being part of a fantastic evening of laughter, madness and mayhem."

Gina Kirkham is published by Urbane Books.