Third book launch for talented author and illustrator
Author and illustrator, Hayley Buxton, has completed her third children’s storybook and is busy planning the official launch on 14 October at social enterprise, Banwell Pottery, near Weston-super-Mare. The book tour will then continue at Grimsbury Farm in Bristol, on 28 October.
Multi-talented artist
Thanks to the success of her first two children’s books, Hayley has been able to self-fund the release of her third book.
Hayley is a supported employee at our social enterprise, Banwell Pottery. As well as creating artwork, ceramics, and other crafts which are sold in the Brandon charity shops and other Brandon enterprises, she has also been able to complete her own artistic projects.
Kelly’s journey
The third book features the heartwarming adventure of a cat called Kelly, who is trying hard to find a cosy corner to rest. The tale follows Kelly’s journey to find somewhere comfortable with the help of her friends.
Launch events
Hayley will be signing copies of her book at a launch event on 14 October, from 4.30pm-6.30pm. There will also be covid-safe drinks and snacks at the event, which will take place at Banwell Pottery’s studio at Worle Leisure Centre. Copies of the book and some original artwork will be available to buy.
A second event at Grimsbury Farm in Kingswood, will be on 28 October (10.30am-3.00pm). Visitors will be able to buy a copy of the book and artwork, and also enjoy browsing pop up stalls from Brandon social enterprises and charity shops, including a children’s stall selling quality, second-hand children’s clothing, toys, and accessories. There will also be seasonal food, drinks, and snacks available from Barn Café.
Dream Fund supports ambitions
In 2017, Hayley was awarded money from Brandon’s Dream Fund to achieve her ambition of becoming an illustrator and publish her first children’s book. The book was a huge success and the first print run quickly sold out, with the profits going into Hayley’s newly created art fund. With help from her family, friends, and support team, Hayley has used the funds to publish her second and third books, and she has more in the pipeline.
Hayley’s support team, who are all artists and creatives in their own right, took on the role of publisher to enable Hayley to achieve her dream. The team worked together to bring the books to print, ensuring that the content is age appropriate and appealing to young children.
Life-changing impact
Banwell Pottery project coordinator, Dianne Slingsby, explained:
"We’re lucky to have a team of specialist staff, all able to share their expertise with our supported employees. Hayley’s achievements demonstrate the difference support workers make each day, and of the life-changing impact Brandon’s Dream Fund can have on people we support."
Join our team
Hayley has been supported, every step of the way, by her incredible support team. They have been instrumental in helping her to realise her dream.
Do you have the skills to help someone on their road to success? Visit our job section to find out more about working with us, and to browse our current vacancies.
