A former student, Natalie Rose, has fulfilled her lifetime ambition to become a published author, after completing her first fiction novel; Legend of the Whyte Doe.
Nelson and Colne College Sixth Form is keen to retain links with all former students, as their individual stories of achievement provide great inspiration for current students; allowing them to see what hard work and dedication can achieve. Former A Level student, 28 year old Natalie is no exception! From an early age, Natalie demonstrated an interest in English and a passion for writing, which went on to serve her well.
Pulling on legends she first heard about as a teenager and combining them with her more recent knowledge of the War of the Roses, Natalie was able to pen the first in a series of novels ‘The Bearnshaw Series’, called The Legend of the Whyte Doe.
In an interview with the College about her novel, Natalie said, “It took me about 3 months to write the story once I had the plot formed in my mind. Based on the legend of Bearnshaw Tower and the milk white doe, I always knew that this legend was an excellent basis for a novel and I enjoyed exploring how real events could turn into a legend over time. Setting the story in my home region of East Lancashire was also fantastic; I still maintain strong links with the area and think the countryside around Burnley is an often overlooked treasure!”
“I knew from an early age that I wanted to write and have to say that I was always pushed and inspired by my College tutor Donna to work hard to achieve this dream. I am excited for the book launch at the Pendle Heritage Centre and hope that the people of East Lancashire will think that I have done one of their legends due justice!”
Natalie will be holding a special book launch event on Thursday 4th December at Pendle Heritage Centre between 11am and 3pm. Visitors can chat to Natalie about the book, enjoy medieval music and food and watch as the characters come to life in full costume!