Author James Robertson's Biggar book launch

However, just days later James was in Biggar for a second launch — this one organised at the Elphinstone Hotel by local booksellers Atkinson Pryce.

And he was delighted to be there as it was in this area that he was given his chance to become a full-time writer.

Back in 1993 James was the first person to be appointed writer-in-residence at Brownsbank Cottage, the former home of Hugh MacDiarmid.

The project gave him a roof over his head, a stipend and time to write.

"It is not an exaggeration to say that it changed my life," he stated.

James' latest book covers nearly 60 years of Scottish life, from 1950 to 2008, dealing many changes that have occurred in that period — both social and political.

For an in-depth interview with James, pick up a copy of this week's Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.