ONE expects to spot superheroes zooming between the buildings of New York City – not zooming down the rural roads of picturesque Rostherne.

‘Pop goes to the Rescue’ is a charming children’s book that recounts the adventures of Rostherne’s very own white-haired superhero, Pop.

The stories were written and part-illustrated by retired primary school teacher and Rostherne resident Kate Steele and based on the real life adventures of her husband, Martin.

Kate, known to her family as Cath, was diagnosed with cancer in 2008 and it was during her treatment and with a wish to leave a lasting legacy for her grandchildren that the idea for the series was born.

Sadly, Kate lost her battle with cancer in April 2013 at the age of 61. To honour her memory, Kate’s family decided to pursue publishing the stories and donate all proceeds from book sales to Francis House Children’s Hospice in Didsbury.

Family, past pupils and friends, including neighbour Susie Mathis, have dedicated the past year to completing the illustrations amd compiling and printing the stories.

Dozens piled into Egerton Hall in Rostherne on September 26 for the official launch of the resultant book, ‘Pop goes to the Rescue’.

Martin, a.k.a Pop, told the Guardian that Kate would have been overwhelmed by the turn-out.

“She was a modest lady,” he added. “Although the fuss would have embarrassed her she would have been very proud it was for Francis House. And we are very, very proud of her.”

Martin’s friend actress Sue Johnston leant her support by reading one of the stories from the book at the launch.

“It is a privilege to be here for Martin,” she said. “And how wonderful that we have all come together for him.”

Sue added that she was going to be reading some stories on the CBeebies channel in the next few weeks and had submitted one of Kate’s stories to be used in the programme.

“I am hoping they will let me read it, fingers crossed,” she said.

‘Pop goes to the Rescue’ is available to purchase from thekirstyclub.com.