A GRANDMA has written and published a book chronicling the life and works of her Romany Gypsy parents.

Mary King, 65, of Little Totham, published her book “Romany Legends, Daniel and Dolly Buckley, The Gypsy Way” at the start of August.

Daniel and Dolly Buckley were originally from Southend, but settled in Little Totham to live most of their lives, living in accordance to the gypsy traditions including living, working and traveling in extended family groups, that provides a network of mutual support and companionship.

During their lives in the region, which began in the 1920s, Daniel and Dolly were Romany legends of the area, for raising their five children in their gypsy wagon, facing problems struggles and problems every day, but living a happy and content life.

Mary’s book contains tales, reflections, memories and anecdotes of days gone by from when Daniel and Dolly were children, living in their wagon as their daughter.

Because of their renowned status as a Romany family and their efforts to help the community, by the time of their deaths they were well-regarded in the region.

Mary, who has three children and six grandchildren, has been wanting to write about her parents’ life for many years, and from start to finish it has taken her two years to write and publish the book.

Her daughter Marisa King, who helped her write, said: “My mum has been talking with her husband Eddie about writing this book for the last couple of decades. It’s taken two years but now it’s been released we’ve had some great feedback, the first order of 200 books has completely gone, so the publisher has ordered another round.

“She was inspired to do it because there haven’t been many books published about Romany gypsies, and because she had so many experiences, and the fact her parents – my grandparents – were so well known at the time she wanted to tell their story.

“We’re a big family and all live very close together, and they all love the book, and I couldn’t be more proud of how she’s been able to achieve something like this. There aren’t many opportunities these days, I’m glad she took one and it worked out so well.”

“Romany Legends” is on sale in Waterstones and Amazon. See http://amzn.to/2wbNHER.