IT is never too late to try new things as a 91-year-old, first-time author proves.

Merlin Jones, of Nevern, is eagerly awaiting the publication of his first book on May 26th. The children's tale, When the Lions Came to Tea, tells the story of Joey Kangaroo's birthday party.

When making up the guest list, the kangaroos leave the lions out for fear that partygoers will become party fare.

But an invitation is mistakenly dropped at the lions' den and the other animals find they have misjudged their notorious neighbours.

The story is accompanied by delightful illustrations by Italian Mauro Evangelista. This may be his first book, but Mr Jones is hardly a late starter.

He has been trying out new things since leaving his native Wales to find a teaching job in London in 1938.

He ended up in the Territorial Army, joined the Commandos and passed out at Sandhurst as an officer in the Welsh Regiment.

After leaving the Army, he and his wife Aileen travelled extensively working for the British Council in places like Holland, Iraq, Persia and Tanzania.

On his retirement, he immersed himself in fishing and converted a stable into a cottage. In his 80s, he decided to learn about computers.

Sadly, the excitement of seeing When the Lions Came to Tea in bookshops is tempered by a recent stroke which has affected Merlin's communication skills.

A hardback version goes on sale this month for £10.99 and the paperback is priced at £4.99.

The book is also available by contacting Ragged Bears Publishing Limited on 01963 34300.