A CREATIVE Kendalian inspired by a popular Lake District walking spot has created a stress-busting colouring book aimed at adults.

Author and artist Sarah Weldon is the woman behind the 'Rydal Water' book.

"I chose Rydal for the first book as I walk there most days with my dog and swim there too," she explained.

Later this year, Ms Weldon will be swimming along the the River Thames from source to sea and eventually around the whole coast of Britain and its rivers.

"I will create a new colouring book for each place," she said. "But it made sense to start with Rydal as I know it so well."

Ms Weldon, who is also the author of the Bertram and Molly books - steampunk stories of Britain, for ages eight years and older, started the book in March last year.

Colouring books for adults have boomed in popularity over the past few years, making headlines for their health benefits.

"Colouring books are very good for lots of things," Ms Weldon said. "So it makes sense to me that they are so popular when they come with easy to access health benefits at any budget. Whether you are recovering from a stroke, or needing an escape from the stress of your job."

As well as writing and drawing, Ms Weldon is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Ambassador, Microsoft Innovative Educator, speaker, and CEO of environmental and STEM education charity Oceans Project.

She began drawing after students requested paper versions of her blackboard revision notes for geography and science.

And with a background in technology, Ms Weldon has digital plans for her grown-up colouring books.

"Eventually the books will be augmented so you can see your artwork on your phone or iPad as an interactive 3D image with sounds, for example," she explained.

Rydal Water Adult Colouring Book: A Colourful Exploration of Britain (Augmented Reality Colouring Books of Great Britain) is available at https://www.amazon.com/Rydal-Water-Adult-Colouring-Book/dp/1642559806/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1516192562&sr=8-2&keywords=rydal+water+colouring+book