Sarah is a member of The Dawnstalkers, a group of early risers who take to the waters of Penarth at Dawn.
Local author Sarah Thompson has announced the launch of her debut children’s book, 'The Dawnstalkers', an enchanting story inspired by the real-life early-morning swimmers of Penarth.
Illustrated by Penarth-based artist Emma S Jones and designed by Vanessa Bowerman from Folio Creates, this stunningly crafted book brings the magic of dawn dippers to life for children and adults alike.
The Dawnstalkers follows the daily adventures of a group of early risers who take to the waters of Penarth at dawn, with magical characters drawn from real-life figures in the local community. One standout character, Lene, co-founder of the Dawnstalkers, appears as a serene mermaid who sings a calming call to summon the sea dippers to the shore, creating a mesmerizing world for readers.
She said “I am thrilled to be a character in Sarah’s book, especially as a mermaid as I love the sea. I hope my character inspires and encourages young people to be brave and calm when doing things that may be hard for them in life”.
Sarah and Emma’s collaboration began at a children’s writing workshop hosted at Penarth Library, where they discovered their shared passion for storytelling and creativity. Together, they have created a book that beautifully captures the charm and strong sense of community of Penarth’s Dawnstalkers.
To celebrate the launch, Sarah will be hosting a special sunrise event at Penarth Seafront on Saturday, 21st September from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, in front of the RNLI station. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness the magic of dawn as the sun rises at 6:58 AM, followed by live readings of the book, book signings and dedications, and the chance to meet some of the real-life characters featured in the story, including Captain Grant, Lene the Mermaid, James the Shutterbug & Dexter the Dog.
Launch Event Highlights:
- Sunrise book readings by Sarah Thompson
- Signed copies for sale from the first 100 printed
- Live illustration with Emma S Jones
- Meet the real-life characters from the story
- Free cookie from Stol Coffee with every book purchase
- Enjoy the vibrant colours of dawn sunrise at 6:58am and take a dip with the Dawnstalkers, or just watch from the shore
Bring your family for a morning filled with storytelling, creativity, and magic. Be among the first to own a signed copy of *The Dawnstalkers*, a perfect keepsake that celebrates the beauty of Penarth and its vibrant community.
Follow the journey of 'The Dawnstalkers’ children's book and stay updated via www.sarahthompsonwrites.com

Vueling withdraws winter flights to Aicante this winter
Playground in Barry forced to close after fire damages equipment
Campaigners Take Fight for Fairer Pathways in Welsh Women’s Football to Parliament
Vale Councillor Gwyn John Launches His First Novel at Llantwit Major Book Signing
Pink poppy display commences with celebration of life
Former Barry office block converted into new homes for people at risk of homelessness
Welsh Government publishes independent report on Level 4 intervention at Cardiff and Vale UHB
Three CoastSnap stations set to be installed along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast
Daffodil Runner statue installed at Marie Curie Hospice in Penarth
Woman Dies After Incident in Leckwith as Police Investigation Continues
Vale entrepreneur wins national Innovate UK award for sustainable construction technology
Cardiff Airport retains top accessibility rating as regulator reports record demand for assistance
Open Doors event to showcase hidden world of Glamorgan Archives
New details have emerged of a new tree-lined public square that will replace a traffic dominated junction
Dyffryn Gardens’ Edwardian rose garden blooms again after decade-long restoration
Barry’s Own Daniel White to Walk 190 Miles Back to Where His Round Table Story Began
1,300 people attend Flying Start Family Fun Day
Dispersal order put in place to tackle anti-social behaviour
Interim Chief Executive Appointed at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
Cardiff Theatre Marks 50 Years of Service for Long‑Standing Staff Member