The former head of Gloucester City Council's public relations team is one of a dozen experts from around the world who have contributed to a new book on effective communication.

Marcus Grodentz (pictured) is one of the contributors from the UK, Australia and the United States who have been brought together to provide chapters on a range of differing communication skills.

Included in The Art of Effective Communication are chapters covering presentation skills, campaigning, effective public speaking, mindset, social media and relationships.

Marcus, who moved from journalism into public relations now works as a coach helping entrepreneurs to promote themselves and their businesses more effectively.

He said: " I was delighted to be asked to be part of this international project which has brought together experts from across the globe to pool their knowledge.

"Communications is integral to absolutely everything we do - from personal life to business. These are skills which it is important to use and practice. Having a book like this which covers a range of different uses and applications should be an essential read for everyone."

Marcus now lives in Magor, south Wales and works with his wife Maggie who is a counsellor. Together they run Novus Coaching and Counselling.