Wigan author signs new novel where war hero sang
Wigan author Frank Malley will be signing copies of his new novel, The Singing Spy, at the same venue where the book's heroine sang professionally exactly 90 years ago.
Margery Booth, the opera star born in Hodges Street, Wigan, found international fame after emigrating to Germany in the 1930s. She returned to her home town to sing at the Queen's Hall on Market Street in 1935.
Malley's novel is inspired by Margery's brave exploits when she was recruited by Britain's secret services in World War II, smuggling vital information while singing at a P.O.W. camp in Berlin.
Malley said: "It is a privilege to visit the concert hall which meant so much to Margery. Her courage was the driving force behind my new novel."
All proceeds from the book go to Wigan and Leigh Hospice.
The signing is at the Queen's Hall Christmas Fayre on Saturday, November 29 at 11am-2pm.
There will also be stalls with seasonal goods, cakes and bakes, crafts, carols and the cafe will serve hot and cold food, including seasonal favourites.