Press release -

Arran children's book set to cast a spell on visitors

A children’s book about a young witch on Arran will enchant potential visitors to the island, according to VisitScotland.

Glasgow author Angela Proctor, who writes under the name of AH Proctor, is continuing her Thumble Tumble series that follows the magical, spooky, challenging and fun adventures of the friendly west coast witch. Combining history and myths with real locations such as Brodick Castle, the Holy Isle and Goatfell, the national tourism organization hopes the series will inspire more families to visit Arran.

Published by Forth Books and the second in the series of eight, Thumble Tumble and the Cauldron of Undry, features some of Arran’s most famous locations.

As families enjoy Brodick Estate, the quintessential Highland experience and the perfect place for a day out, children will be intrigued by the haunted place where Thumble Tumble goes to rescue her friend Buttercup.

The highest point on the island, Goatfell, offers spectacular views from its summit but children will also have their eyes out for McCools, the three-legged Haggis and super intelligent recluse, whose help is enlisted by the young witch.

The Holy Isle, renowned for its peacefulness and unspoilt beauty, is the location of the mystical Cauldron of Undry and children will be sure to try to spot the fiery Thistle Pixies.

As children are enchanted by Thumble Tumble’s brave but risky undertakings, they will also learn about the real magic that can be found on the gem of the Firth of Clyde.

Angela said: “The series was born on Arran. I have a cottage there where I regularly go with my family and on one holiday I started telling my children stories of the magic on this beautiful island. Eventually I put pen to paper and it’s fantastic to see my books bring the magic of the island to life for children.”

Annique Armstrong, Regional Director at VisitScotland, said: “It’s great to see the second tale of Thumble Tumble published. We hope that the exciting stories set on Arran will inspire young readers and their families to visit this magical island and take part in their own adventures. Arran’s stunning landscape, combined with its history, myths and legends help to create a perfectly enchanting backdrop for writers and visitors alike.”

Both Thumble Tumble and the Cauldron of Undry and the first book, Thumble Tumble and the Ollpheist are on sale at Waterstone's and on Amazon.

For more information on Thumble Tumble, go to www.thumbletumble.co.uk

For more information on Arran, go to www.visitscotland.com/destinations-maps/arran

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Contacts

Chelsea Charles

Press contact Scotland’s Themed Years Communications & Engagement Manager Contact for media enquiries on: Scotland’s Themed Years (i.e. 2018 Year of Young People; 2020 Year of Scotland's Coast and Waters; 2022 Year of Scotland's Stories) 0131 472 2067

Carrie MacWilliam

Press contact Senior Corporate Press Officer - National Contact for media enquiries on: Travel media (Scotland); Year of Young People; UK Marketing; Dundee; Fife; Angus; Perthshire 0131 472 2052

Amelia Whittaker

Press contact Senior Corporate Press Officer - Regional Contact for media enquiries on: South Region; Edinburgh and Lothians; Food and Drink; Scottish Thistle Awards 01750 723806

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