Pop Goes to the Rescue

Never mind “Superman” and those other super heroes, the hero in the “POP” books is a white-haired, window cleaning – grandfather, who has a timely habit of saving animals in distress. These wonderful stories are now available to buy from this website, with proceeds going to Francis House Hospice.

Kate Steele (known to her family as Cath) had a lifelong ambition to write children’s books. She was a mother, grandmother and primary school teacher at St Hugh’s in Timperley and St. Bede’s in Manchester. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2008 and it was during her treatment - and with a wish to leave a lasting legacy for her grandchildren - that the idea for the ‘Pop’ series was born. ‘Pop’ is based on the real life adventures of Kate’s husband and the children’s grandfather Martin Steele, otherwise known as ‘Pop’.

Kate passed away in April 2013. Her family decided to pursue publishing the stories, which were written for and dedicated to her grandchildren. As Kate‘s illness progressed, her illustrations became fewer, so it seemed fitting to ask the children she taught at St. Bede’s in Manchester to create the missing pictures, and they rose to the challenge with style.

The four stories have been put together in one book. All proceeds are going to Francis House Children’s Hospice in Didsbury, Manchester. All funding of the first issues has been undertaken by the extraordinary charitable efforts of Martin’s family.

The Steele Family are turning their devastation and using their inspirational story to honour Kate’s memory by printing the books to raise vital funds for Francis House.

A Reading, With Sue Johnston

Please POP along at 3.30 pm to Egerton Hall, Rostherne Lane, Rostherne, Knutsford WA166RZ on Friday the 26th of September, a date chosen as it is the anniversary of Kate’s Birthday. Sue Johnston will be reading one of “Pops” adventures. Photo opportunity with The Steele family and Sue Johnston and the children of St. Bede’s at the event on Friday 26th September.

Order Your Copy

Pop Goes to the Rescue is available now for a minimum donation of £6.99 + £2.50 P&P. Remember, all proceeds will go towards Francis House Hospice. Contact us now to order your copy.