A DETERMINED Greenock man has published his first book - penned while going through cancer treatment at the ripe old age of 87.

Bill McNeice was diagnosed with cancer 15 years ago and while he was recovering, he decided to put pen to paper. 

The former joiner wrote Rory, a Western set in 1870s America, back in 2008 and it's taken him years to get it out there on the shelves. 

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Bill says he is thrilled to finally see the book in all its glory. 

He added: "I had been thinking about writing a book for a long time. 

"When I was getting my treatment I had to focus on something, so I started the book. 

"It's taken me a long time to get it published but I'm so happy to finally see it out there.

"It feels great. 

"When the money starts coming in from people buying it I will be even happier!"

Rory tells the tale of a family from Skye who travel to America and end up being hunted by killers.

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Bill says some parts of the novel, published through Earth Angel Books, are not for the faint-hearted. 

He added: "There's a lot of cruelty in the book but a lot of passion too. 

"There are a lot of different characters in it.

"It was all just in my mind and it was easy to write it, I really enjoyed writing it."

Bill and his family emigrated to South Africa in 1975 and lived there for 20 years before returning to Inverclyde. 

His wife Ann sadly passed away eight years ago. 

The couple raised two sons and a daughter, who brought them seven grandchildren and one great grandchild. 

Long before he brought his idea for a book to life, Bill was a big star on the music scene.

A talented guitarist, Bill played guitar for Billy Fury and Lita Rosa in the 1950s and 1960s, and with many groups across the UK and beyond. 

He was a part of the Clydeside Singers for many years and even recorded a couple of his own songs. 

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Bill says although he can't sing very well now, music will always be a big part of his life. 

The talented author and musician is currently writing another book, and this one is about US Navy SEALs going to Columbia. 

Bill says his family are very proud of all his achievements and are particularly delighted to see Rory hit the shelves. 

He added: "Everyone has been congratulating me about it. 

"I'm very proud of it and I put a lot into it. 

"I think it's a big achievement."

You can purchase Rory by visiting www.amazon.co.uk and searching for Bill McNeice.