A DEBUT novel inspired by a local author's time at Milford Haven School has been shortlisted for a top literary prize.

Tommy Parker: Destiny Will Find You - written by Anthony Ormond - has been short-listed for The People’s Book Prize, but the author needs local readers to keep voting for him if he is to stand a chance of winning.

The book follows the story of a seemingly ordinary schoolboy, worried only about football and homework, until his grandfather reveals a massive secret that will change Tommy’s life forever – a pen that enables the user to time travel into their memories.

But Tommy soon learns that he has signed up for more than he expected, as there are others who will stop at nothing to get their hands on it.

Tommy and his friends must rise to the challenge and fight to keep the pen out of the hands of evil – life as we know it could be at stake if they don’t.

Now a criminal lawyer living in Cardiff, Anthony said many of Tommy's adventures were inspired by his school days in Milford Haven.

Anthony said he was thrilled to be short-listed for this prize, and urged fans of his work to get involved and vote.

“It's a wonderful feeling of accomplishment and I hope people vote for me again," he said.

"It would be great for Tommy’s story to reach a wider audience.”

Judged by the public, the competition is open to all published authors.

To vote for Tommy Parker please visit: http://www.peoplesbookprize.com/book.php?id=1269.