Posted: Sun 26th Oct 2025

Flintshire author releases new book of African tales

News and Info from Deeside, Flintshire, North Wales
This article is old - Published: Sunday, Oct 26th, 2025

Flintshire author Richard Phillips has released Tails from the Bushveld, a new illustrated collection of adventure stories inspired by his life and travels across Africa.

The book, featuring illustrations by South African artist Anton Deetlefs, blends humour, affection and the untamed beauty of the African landscape.

Drawing from decades of experiences, Richard recounts encounters with elephants, porcupines and monkeys, and even a supposed UFO over the Indian Ocean.

Richard spent much of his life travelling the continent with his wife Ann, whose spirit is central to the book.

Ann passed away shortly before publication, and the stories are described as a tribute to her adventurous nature.

Richard fondly referred to her as “Ann of Africa” and his “English rose”.

From the Namib Desert to the Okavango Delta, Tails from the Bushveld captures the unpredictability of Africa, from comic mishaps to moments of wonder. The author, now 74, has worked across the region in a variety of fields, including crime prevention and security, while writing and speaking about the lighter side of life.

Illustrator Anton Deetlefs, based in Cape Town, brings Richards’ stories to life with expressive pen-and-ink drawings.

A former broadcaster and media trainer, Deetlefs said his aim was to “interpret the character and essence of the tales and elevate them to a new level.”

Richard, who now lives in Flintshire, said the collection was written for readers who love adventure, whether they are exploring the world or imagining it from home.

Tails from the Bushveld is available through selected book retailers and online outlets.

Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.

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