A former Herts Advertiser reporter turned author visited St Albans bookshop Waterstones to sign copies of his first picturebook for children, Albert Upside Down.

Now featured in the St Peter's Street shop's window and on a table display in the children's section, the book, based on family pet tortoise Albert, is a new venture for Ian Brown 30 years after he left the Herts Ad.

Herts Advertiser: Ian Brown by the window display of Albert Upside Down at Waterstones St Albans.Ian Brown by the window display of Albert Upside Down at Waterstones St Albans. (Image: Ian Brown)

Following his time at the paper, Ian went on to be a writer and producer for television on shows like Top Gear, The South Bank Show and This Is Your Life, working with household names such as Harrison Ford, Liam Neeson, Pierce Brosnan, Trevor McDonald, Martin Kemp, Simon Cowell, Floella Benjamin, Paul Whitehouse and YouTuber Joe Sugg.

Herts Advertiser: Albert the tortoise with a copy of book Albert Upside Down.Albert the tortoise with a copy of book Albert Upside Down. (Image: Ian Brown)

"It was particularly nice to be back where my writing career started," said Ian.

"This is a rollercoaster for me. It was a delight to visit the shop and I hope to return there to sign more very soon."

Herts Advertiser: Ian Brown signed copies of his book Albert Upside Down at Waterstones St Albans.Ian Brown signed copies of his book Albert Upside Down at Waterstones St Albans. (Image: Ian Brown)

Herts Advertiser: Albert Upside Down book cover.Albert Upside Down book cover. (Image: Ian Brown / Eoin Clarke / Graffeg)