A North Norfolk writer and journalist has released his debut novel - just in time for the World Cup.

Chris Tookey, 68, former film critic at the Daily Mail, has published a comedy detective thriller based on the game Football Manager.

Mr Tookey, from North Creake, near Fakenham, wrote The Football Manager Murders, about professional footballer turned private investigator Charlie Charlesworth, who has teamed up to solve mysteries with his son, Tom.

The book has been described as 'funny, clever and lots of fun,' by The Sunday Times, 'sharp and witty' by author Andrew Klavan, and 'a fast-paced romp' by writer Simon Brett.

Mr Tookey was chairman of the British Film Critics' Circle, and a former film reviewer for the Sunday Telegraph.

He has also directed and composed for TV and presents Radio 4's Film programme.

The Football Manager Murders was published on June 11, by independent publisher, The Book Guild.