A writer inspired by "the ridiculous world" has released a collection of comedy short stories.

Warren Smith, from Brighton, has published his illustrated book called Desperate Measures.

He said: “Funny, farcical short fictional stories have always popped into my head, inspired by the ridiculous world unfolding around me - but these snapshots have just drifted off into the ether until I had the idea to write them in verse.”

The book is a social satire with 56 short stories focusing on the themes of work, media, relationships and death.

Warren said: “These comedy stories are about everyday pains, poor life choices and sometimes fatal accidents. They are treated mostly treated in a light-hearted manner with an occasional drop into gallows humour.”

Each of the 56 stories comes with a big cartoon “so readers get the picture”.

It is Warren’s first book and is a small self-published project.

He said: “It’s unique, locally-made and should make a good stocking filler.”

The book is stocked in Hove independent bookseller City Books.

“I’m really pleased that City Books is stocking my book. I know that they are great at supporting the local creative community,” said Warren.

The book will also be in stock at Waterstones in North Street from next week.

Warren said: “John the manager at Waterstones has been really supportive and enthusiastic about the book.”

“I hope it will sell well locally because Brighton and Hove is a great place to launch creative projects.”

The book costs £4.99 and is also available on Amazon.