I have been writing all my life in one form or another, from diaries, short stories and unfinished novels, I've always written.

I've also always had an opinion on everything. This has not always been welcomed by all - but it's never stopped me.

I have chosen to write in this format because I can.

I write because I live somewhere where I can sleep safely in my bed at night.

I write because I don't live somewhere where the rule of law has broken down and armed gangs roam the streets.

I write because I do not live somewhere where the police appear in the 'wee sma' hours of the night at your door and you disappear.

I write because I cannot be stoned to death for my opinions or my dress or the way I choose to live my life.

I don't write on behalf of those who cannot but I have not walked in their shoes and I can't express their views. But I remember them when I write.

I write in the hope that one day they may too be free to express their views.