A well known black and white cat has been immortalised in a children's book.

When Toby the cat is not curled up on a rug in Waltham Abbey's carpet shop, he can be seen patrolling the streets of the town, where is a recognisable figure.

Taken by his presence, Joyce Yull decided to put pen and paper and write Toby into the world of fiction.

Titled 'Toby and the Magic Carpet', the story begins with the moggy falling asleep on a Persian rug which has mysteriously arrived at the shop.

The former secretary said: "He wakes up and finds himself in a blacksmiths and everybody seems to know him.

"He has a stroll around town and goes to the police station, which was full of police then. It has closed now.

"Then he helps the police find a spy."

As Toby - who cannot speak but is able to understand WWI Waltham Abbey folk - continues his adventure, he finds himself working along Scotland Yard and with the Ward Office.

Mrs Yull, who is already working on a follow up book, said the story is aimed at children but is also suitable for adults.

It is available at the Waltham Abbey Tourist Centre and Waltham Abbey Church shop.