Bury St Edmunds councillor Paul Hopfensperger celebrates two Amazon #1 best-sellers with co-authored book and song
A Bury St Edmunds councillor who was determined to use his time in lockdown positively is celebrating after both his book and song hit number one on the Amazon charts.
Independent councillor Paul Hopfensperger, who represents the St Olaves ward on West Suffolk Council, said he wanted to 'help as many people as he possibly could' after the world ground to a halt due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In August last year, he qualified as a John Maxwell certified coach and set about co-authoring a book called 'Bringing Value, Solving Problems and Leaving a Legacy'.
The book, in which Paul has written a chapter, hit number one on the Amazon chart just months later, in April of this year.
And his success only continued after a song he recorded, called 'Just Keep Swimming Until You Get To France!', followed suit.
It took the top spot in five categories in August, helping Paul realise a dream he has had since 1973 - to have a number one hit.
His song was based on his experiences of swimming the English Channel - a feat he has undertaken three times since 2007.
"I disassociated myself from negative, divisive people and situations and associated myself with such internationally recognised speakers," he said, adding that these speakers included John Maxwell, Kyle Wilson and Roy Smoothe.
"To become an international Amazon number one bestselling author and music artist, while at the same time helping people around the world with their mental health and inspiring them to achieve their goals has been an incredible experience."
Eleven-time best-selling author Kyle Wilson, who also featured in 'Bringing Value, Solving Problems and Leaving a Legacy', described Paul's chapter as 'filled with inspiration and insight'.
"Paul has modelled a great example to me and all of us to stretch and become our best," he said.
Internationally renowned presenter, publisher and producer Roy Smoothe was involved in producing Paul's first song and together the pair have released another called 'Never Negotiate with your Dream'.
About Paul's music, Roy said: "It motivated me to just keep going. I knew this would contribute to making the album a number one best seller."
Signed copies of the book, as well as Paul's motivational song, can be bought at www.paulhopfensperger.com.
One pound from every sale will be donated to St Nicholas' Hospice in Bury.
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