A BRAIN tumour survivor who was given just months to live has written a book to raise funds for the small Purbeck chapel where he once contemplated ending his life.

Paul Bristow, who recently celebrated his 68th birthday with friends and family, has written his autobiography 'To Hell and Back (Twice)' to raise funds for St Aldhelm's Chapel, Worth Matravers.

Paul told the Daily Echo: "The story tells of my suicidal thoughts, pre-empted by an undiagnosed brain tumour, and an accident after which I thought I'd never walk again.

"I wrote a suicide note which was to be placed beside me at my favourite place on this Earth, which is the stone chapel situated on the cliff top at a windswept headland on the Jurassic Coast."

A desperate Paul wrote the note in hospital after months of dealing with severe pain and insomnia because of his undiagnosed brain tumour.

When medics finally diagnosed his condition, nine years ago, Paul was told that without surgery he had just months to live. But the operation was a success and over the following weeks he made a good recovery.

However, in February 2008, while visiting a business client in North Dorset he was run over by a car and dragged into the centre of the road.

He broke his ankle, his hip and suffered back injuries and thought he'd never walk again.

"My feelings were that I would never walk again and I would be prepared to walk with the aid of crutches for the duration of my lifespan," he said. "However, my confidence returned and with assistance I was able to use the gym which I began to enjoy, particularly the rowing machine.

"I thought I was at the end of the road, but I managed to keep going through meditation and my Christian faith. I hope this book will help people keep going in similar circumstances. Things can get better."

Paul is asking for donations for the chapel in return for a copy of his book.

Contact him for a copy at 'Nashville', 15 Baring Road, Bournemouth, BH6 4DS.