THE latest novel by local historian and author Jeff Dunn has raised a phenomenal £1,730 for the Paul Sartori Foundation.

Tony and the Dream Searcher, which was being sold in Milford News, in Charles Street, has sold nearly 300 copies since its launch in November.

Based on real events, the book is set in the 1950s, and conjures up images of a simpler time, when the festive season was about family, children played outside all year round, and youngsters still had the threat of the Eleven Plus looming over the horizon.

A stalwart of local nostalgia, Jeff is famous to many for his weekly 'That Reminds Me...' column in the Milford Mercury, in which he and his loyal readers reminisce over Milford Haven's golden years.

His latest novel was again be raising money for the Paul Sartori Foundation, with every penny from the book's £5.95 cover price going towards this local charity, thanks to printing costs being sponsored by Jim and Elaine Yeomans of Manderwood Timber Engineering Ltd.

“I’m gobsmacked at the amount raised, it far surpassed my wildest expectations,” said Jeff.

“I’ve been so delighted by all the great comments from those who read it.

“This was my fifth charity book, and hopefully it won’t be my last.”

Toni Dorkings, fundraising coordinator, said: “We would like to thank Jeff Dunn for writing this fabulous book Tony and the Dream Searcher, also to all at Milford News for selling it, in aid of The Paul Sartori Foundation.

“It is through people like Jeff that Paul Sartori Foundation can continue to offer end of life care to people in Pembrokeshire with any life limiting illness.”

Over the last two decades, thanks to help from friends, and his band of loyal readers, Jeff has helped raise almost £40,000 for various charities, including Cancer Research, Macmillan, Ty Hafan, Adam’s Bucketful of Hope, Mind, and the Royal British Legion.

There are still a few copies of Tony and the Dream Searcher Left, get down to Milford News to pick yours up today.