Retired Glasgow plumber William writes first book aged 96

A retired plumber has published his first novel at the age of 96.

William Glen from Glasgow discovered his love for writing while attending classes in his retirement.

He spent months planning and writing the fictional tale After the Panic, about a disagreement between South American drug barons that leads to a bomb being left on a cruise ship.

Mr Glen, a tenant at Carntyne Gardens retirement housing, was inspired to write the story after reading a newspaper article about a bomb being left on a bus.

The book is available to buy from Amazon’s Kindle Store.

The pensioner, who writes under the name Glen Williams, said: “I worked as a plumber, so exploring my creative side isn’t something I ever had much of a chance to do.

“In my classes, I would usually write short, creative pieces – never before have I written anything as big as this, so it’s certainly a big achievement for me.

“It’s exciting to have my work available in public space. I’ve had great feedback so far.”

After the Panic sees passengers evacuated from a cruise ship after a bomb is discovered on board.

The novel follows the stories of three passengers accidentally left behind.

Mr Glen has had 100 copies of the book printed which he is distributing to friends and family.

He has since completed a second, autobiographical work telling the story of his time spent in Normandy where he was wounded during the war.

Carol Harvey, deputy manager at Bield’s Carntyne Gardens, said: “The staff here all really enjoyed reading After the Panic – it’s a fantastic story that illustrates Mr Glen’s bright mind.

“His adoration for his work really shines through the pages.”