Paralympic gold medalist swimmer Ellie Simmonds is to release an illustrated four book series for children aged six and upwards, beginning with Ellie's Magical Bakery, about a girl called Ellie and her pet cat Whisk.

Ruth Knowles, editorial director of Random House Children's, commented that Simmonds is 'an inspiration to children and adults alike, and has turned her hand to these stories perfectly', while Simmonds says she's 'so excited and very committed' to the books, set to launch in June.