A GARDEN centre boss’ debut book has been shortlisted for a national award.

Hannah Powell is HR director at Perrywood Garden Centres, a family-run business based in Tiptree, and writes in her spare time.

Her debut book was written in lockdown and outlines her relationship with nature and how it positively impacted her health and wellbeing.

It follows how the 44-year-old, who grew up on the Perrywood Tiptree site, suffered burnout while living in London and was diagnosed with a functional neurological disorder.

With no information available to help her, she found her own way to get better.

What she calls her “green recovery” continued after seeking out alternative therapies and moving back to the north Essex countryside.

READ MORE: 'My green recovery followed' - new book explores wonder of nature

Now her memoir, The Cactus Surgeon, has been shortlisted in the Selfies UK Book Awards in the memoir and autobiography category.

These national awards recognise the UK’s best indie published books.

There are just eight titles shortlisted and the winners will be announced on April 5 at the London Book Fair.

Hannah said: “I wrote the book in lockdown and it was published last October.

“Since then, I have been overwhelmed by the five star ratings, glowing reviews and emails I have received in praise of my writing.

“Many thank me for giving them hope, as they struggle with their own physical or mental health.

“Others mention how relatable they find the book and that it has encouraged them to revisit their own connection with nature.

“To be recognised in these national awards is wonderful. It makes all the late nights writing it, and hard work promoting it, worthwhile.”

The winners in each category receive a cash prize of £750, a profile in BookBrunch, a winners certificate and other publishing opportunities and packages from the awards’ sponsors and supporters.

Shortlisted authors receive free entry to the London Book Fair and the London Book Fair Author HQ.

The Cactus Surgeon is available to buy at Perrywood in Tiptree and Sudbury, Red Lion Books in Colchester, Marshall shop and online at thecactussurgeon.com.