A FORMER Abergavenny resident who beat depression is facing a new challenge as he publishes his first novel.

Courtney Hulbert, who lived in the town for almost two decades before moving to Gloucester, suffered from depression which inspired him to write a novel based on his experience.

Mr Hulbert,52, has been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis-a disease affecting nerves in the brain and spinal cord, causing problems with muscle movement, balance and vision which could cost him the use of his hands to write.

The former army intelligence officer has written ‘Chasing the Dark Clouds’ (published in Kindle format by Amazon) about his experiences of depression and MS, which was diagnosed in October, and hopes it will help others.

The novel is set in Abergavenny and the surrounding countryside and follows the journey of Black Michaels, a former soldier who struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, until he meets a widow who helps him find love again.

The father of two said: “Depression is something which can hit anyone, at any time. Even someone like me, who had a successful career in the military and in IT, can succumb to the temptation to end it all. I hope that Chasing the Dark Clouds can help readers to see that there is always hope on the horizon.”

He added: “It’s terrifying to think that MS could take away my ability to type or write by hand. There’s never been a better time for me to pursue my goal of becoming a full-time writer.”

A proportion of proceeds from the sale of the novel will go to a new not-for-profit organisation to help former military personnel and other uniformed professions tackle depression.