A GALASHIELS author is hoping Selkirk can thwart a looming terrorist threat as well as blast him to the top of the book charts.

Security expert Keith Turnbull has just co-authored a gripping new thriller.

The former Galashiels Academy pupil has teamed up with a former SAS major to produce the explosive Fallen Angel.

And the protagonist throughout the powerful page-turner is none other than Tom Selkirk.

Keith told us: "Selkirk, the hero, is a British Special Forces commando elevated beyond such simple status.

"Selkirk specialises in leading ultra-secret international operations.

"Acquiring teams of ‘the best’ from allied military the world over, Selkirk’s ad hoc units are lethal, sneaky but very effective."

Keith, who returns to Galashiels regularly from his adopted home of London to visit his parents, graduated from Glasgow University with a Master’s degree in Politics.

After working in finance he moved into defence sales, quickly rising to senior managerial and director positions.

His knowledge of commercial defence products and services led to a move as a contractor for the Ministry of Defence in Whitehall - working closely with British Special Forces.

He has since held a classified position within the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

But the latest chapter in Keith's life is as an author.

Teaming up with Major Ken Hames MBE, who has commanded Britain's Anti-Terrorist Unit as well as the SAS, Keith has helped to produce one of the most highly anticipated thrillers of the year.

Several film and television companies have already expressed an interest in the anticipated best seller.

Keith told us: "A chance conversation between Ken and I over two years ago has today resulted in the first publication of what we believe will be a series of action books.

"The storyline and research has taken two years plus to formulate and write in a manner that hides the truth but allows the reader to believe in what is on the page.

"Together, we have hinted at real life career experiences without giving away any operational specifics.

"Fallen Angel is full of action, high-stakes races against time, and large, silver-screen style set-pieces.

"All this points towards hefty entertainment, sure, but as we know from the movies, explosions and fire fights only go so far.

"It’s good then that Fallen Angel paces itself with an intricate and well-developed plot along with enjoyable and vibrant characters."

Fallen Angel will be officially launched in London on December 12.

Hosted by Who Dares Wins presenter Nick Knowles the major launch will involve the nation's media as well as invited film producers.

Many former special forces operatives will also be in attendance.