AN independent bookshop in Penarth will be welcoming a multifaceted writer - a former soldier, police officer and now author.

Griffin Books will host crime author Matt Johnson at Waterloo Tea on Stanwell Road, on Thursday October 10.

Matt Johnson served as a soldier from 1975 to 1978 and a Metropolitan Police officer from 1978 to 1999.

Join him as he shares the incredible story of his career in the police force - during which he experienced many traumatic events, including the death of his friend WPC Yvonne Fletcher in the 1984 Libyan Embassy shooting - and how his experience of post-traumatic stress disorder led to writing three successful crime thrillers.

While undergoing treatment for post traumatic stress disorder, Mr Johnson was encouraged by his counsellor to write about his career and his experience of crime, shootings and terrorism.

He used his detailed knowledge and recollections to create The Robert Finlay trilogy, which has been lauded as a fast-paced, exciting tale of modern-day policing and terrorism.

Tickets for this event are £10 each, and include a drink on arrival, complimentary snacks and a discount on book purchases.

The event kicks off at 7.30pm.

To book tickets and for more information on this and other upcoming Griffin Books events, visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/griffinbooks, or call the shop on 029 2070 6455.