An impish tale has been penned about Lincoln's most famous resident.

New children's storybook The Lincoln Imp features the mischievous character which legend says caused chaos while the cathedral was being built.

The tale picks up on the Imp's windy beginnings, seeing him dropped by gusts of air into a boy called Jake's garden.

Described in the book as a small but wild magical trickster and practical joker, the Imp helps Jake right wrongs through various naughty deeds.

Author Sue Hampton, 53, began work on the story earlier this year after her partner told her the Imp's story.

"I knew that I wanted to use a magical character for this book and my partner told me about this cheeky Imp he had come across while studying medieval architecture at York University years ago," said Ms Hampton, who lives in Hertfordshire and has also written Spirit and Fire, Voice of the Aspen, Shutdown and Just For One Day for youngsters.

"I went to Lincoln Cathedral to see him and as soon as I spotted the carving I thought he fitted what I was looking for perfectly - he's a bit ugly but also quite likeable.

"This mischievous little creature was the perfect vehicle for what I wanted to do and has been a joy to write about."

Lincoln also features heavily in the book as Jake lives in the city, supports Lincoln City FC and pays visits to Lincoln Cathedral.

Dean's Verger John Campbell said: "It's good folk-law, although we always say the most important message of the Imp's tale is good overcoming evil. I'm sure it's a harmless adaptation."

The 98-page paperback was released yesterday and is available from all online stockists and local bookstores for £6.99.

For more about The Lincoln Imp, plus an extract, see Friday's Echo.